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Jeanette Madsen and Thora Valdimars on Rotate’s next steps

Jeanette Madsen and Thora Valdimars on Rotate’s next steps


by Corina Gaffey
12th Feb 2025

Fresh from showcasing their autumn/winter collection at Copenhagen Fashion Week, creative forces of Rotate, Jeanette Madsen and Thora Valdimars take Corina Gaffey inside the collection's evolution, their design process and favourite fashion week moments.

Can you share any standout pieces or themes from the AW25 collection?

Jeanette: This AW25 collection is all about drama and extravagance – think big scarves, flowy silk dresses that delicately fall off your shoulder, and bold coats. It’s all about having those standout pieces that make you feel amazing just by wearing them.

Thora: We’ve also added leather and silky velvet this season, which are new materials for us. They really capture the vibe of the Rotate woman – bold, confident, and ready to make a statement.

How does this collection reflect the evolution of the Rotate brand?

Thora: People will see it in the materials. We’ve started working with more luxurious fabrics, which brings a whole new depth to the designs.

What emotions or reactions do you hope to evoke with this collection?

Jeanette: We want people to feel like they want to wear the pieces right away after they see them on the runway. The styling is toned down to achieve that effortless but elegant Scandinavian vibe.

Are there any fashion rules you break when designing a new collection for Rotate?

Thora: We do love to add a Rotate twist to a classic style. Whether it’s ultra-mini dresses with big sleeves, bold coats with delicate sequin details, or surprising drapings, we’re all about the unexpected.

We focus on creating styles we genuinely love and want to wear ourselves, whether at a party or just having a laid-back day with friends.

What is the most exciting part of the design process for you?

Thora: For me, it’s all about transforming a fabric swatch into something uniquely ours. When we develop a fabric, we spend a lot of time perfecting it until it feels truly Rotate. It’s such a “win” moment when it finally comes to life like we’ve created a Rotate fabric from scratch.

Jeanette: I love seeing the transition from inspiration to reality. When the team starts draping, and you see how an idea evolves – sometimes into something completely different from the original sketch – it’s so exciting to see it take shape right here in the studio.

Do you find that your customers’ personalities influence your designs?

Thora: Definitely! Our community is a huge inspiration for us, and we aim to design super versatile pieces that can be styled and worn in many different ways.

Jeanette: Every collection is inspired by different muses within our community. Sometimes, we even name pieces after them – though I’m not sure they know.

What is your perspective on how partywear has evolved recently and how to keep it fresh?

Thora: We focus on creating styles we genuinely love and want to wear ourselves, whether at a party or just having a laid-back day with friends. When you design with authenticity and excitement, it naturally resonates with others.

With collaborators including Pandora and H&M, under your belt, how do you balance maintaining Rotate’s unique voice while collaborating?

Thora: It’s about staying true to our identity while creating something fresh and exciting together – bold and eye-catching. We do our homework, diving into the essence of the brand we’re collaborating with, and then we reinterpret it through our lens.

What are some of your favourite fashion moments (whether past collections or on the runway) that perfectly capture the essence of Rotate?

Jeanette: For me, the afterparties always stand out – they embody the playful, bold, and unapologetic energy of Rotate. And it’s just amazing to celebrate each season with our incredible team.

Thora: Our last show was a perfect moment. It captured the essence of our very first show but in a new, evolved way. The setting was stunning; everything felt so naturally beautiful and authentic to us. It reflected the heart of Rotate.

Rotate is available online and at Brown Thomas

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