Scandinavian Academy of Fashion Design

Summary

The Scandinavian Academy of Fashion Design, established in 1931 in Copenhagen, is Denmark’s oldest fashion design institution. Formerly known as Margrethe-Skolen, it offers a comprehensive three-year education in fashion design, combining technical craftsmanship with creative innovation. Scandinavian Academy of Fashion Design is recognised for producing influential designers and maintains a strong presence in both Danish and international fashion scenes.

History

Founded by Grethe Glad in 1931, SAFD was initially named Margrethe-Skolen, after its patroness, Princess Margrethe of Bourbon-Parma. Grethe Glad, a Danish socialite and fashion designer, established the school with the aim of providing high-quality fashion education in Copenhagen. Her connections and travels to Paris played a significant role in shaping the school’s curriculum, which emphasized French haute couture techniques.

In 1937, the school relocated to Frederiksholms Canal, solidifying its presence in the heart of Copenhagen. Under Grethe Glad’s leadership, students were introduced to pattern cutting, sewing, and draping, laying a strong foundation for their future careers in fashion. After Grethe Glad’s retirement, Inga Madsen took over the school’s leadership in 1945. Madsen continued to uphold the institution’s reputation for excellence in fashion education. In 1953, the school moved to Østergade, further expanding its facilities to accommodate a growing number of students.

In 2012, SAFD returned to larger and more modern premises in Badstuestræde, reflecting its commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities for its students. The school’s name was officially changed to the Scandinavian Academy of Fashion Design in 2017, aligning with its international recognition and broadening its appeal to a global audience. Throughout its history, SAFD has been at the forefront of fashion education in Denmark, adapting to changing trends and technologies while maintaining a focus on quality and creativity. Its alumni includes prominent designers such as Margit Brandt, Henriette Zobel, Susanne Rutzou, Bendikte Utzon, Lene Sand, Rene Gurskov, Rikke Ruhwald and Bitte Kai Rand.

Vision

The founder, Grethe Glad, envisioned SAFD as a beacon of excellence in fashion education, aiming to cultivate designers who could blend artistic creativity with technical prowess. Her vision emphasized the importance of understanding global fashion trends, particularly those emanating from Paris, to ensure that Danish fashion remained relevant on the international stage. Under the leadership of Inga Madsen, the school continued to uphold this vision, integrating contemporary design philosophies and expanding its curriculum to include modern fashion practices. Today, SAFD’s vision remains rooted in its founders’ principles, focusing on nurturing innovative designers who are equipped to lead and influence the global fashion industry.

Job Integration Rate

Scandinavian Academy of Fashion Design boasts a high job integration rate for its graduates, with many securing positions in fashion houses and design studios worldwide. The school’s strong industry connections and emphasis on practical experience during the course contribute significantly to this success. The academy’s location in Copenhagen, a hub for Scandinavian fashion, provides students with ample opportunities for internships and collaborations with established designers and brands. Additionally, Scandinavian Academy of Fashion Design’s alumni network offers ongoing support and mentorship, further enhancing the employability of its graduates in the competitive fashion industry.

Awards and Recognition

Scandinavian Academy of Fashion Design has received significant recognition, with designers like Margit Brandt and Susanne Rützou gaining international acclaim. Her Royal Highness Princess Benedikte of Denmark serves as the school’s protector and has established a fund from which the annual Benedikte Prize is awarded, further highlighting the institution’s esteemed position in the fashion community. The academy’s student presentations at events like Copenhagen Fashion Week have been lauded by industry professionals, with Vogue’s Laird Borrelli-Persson describing SAFD’s graduate show as “one of the most inspiring events of CPHFW.”

References

1. “Scandinavian Academy of Fashion Design – Nordens førende mode- og designskole”. Scandinavian Academy of Fashion Design.
2. “History – Scandinavian Academy of Fashion Design”. Scandinavian Academy of Fashion Design. 
3. “About the organization | Danish Fashion Institute”. www.danishfashioninstitute.dk.
4. “Medlemmer af Dansk Mode & Textil”. www.dmogt.dk (in Danish). 
5. “Contact – Scandinavian Academy of Fashion Design”. Scandinavian Academy of Fashion Design. 
6. “Street smart: Stroget, Copenhagen”. Traveller.