Astrid Andersen made a significant impact as a menswear and streetwear designer in London, earning acclaim under her own brand. Upon her return to the fashion world after several years with her new venture, Stel—a modular ready-to-wear line—she found her life had shifted. Andersen had relocated to the Jutland region of Denmark, embraced motherhood, and sought a fresh beginning with designs for women that offered “tailoring you can skate in, denim you can dance in, and shirting you can travel in.”
Since Stel’s launch, Andersen has been exploring the essence of her ideal customer. After much thought, she describes the Stel woman as “feminine but not romantic or decorative.” While performance wear is integral to her design process, Andersen emphasizes that her muse’s style remains non-performative. Despite her ongoing deliberations over identity and category, Andersen succeeded in creating a compelling collection that seemed appealing to people of any gender.
Among this summer’s popular styles for young Copenhageners, regardless of gender, were long shorts. Stel’s take on this trend includes washed denim shorts with a slight balloon shape, which pair well with a matching jean vest or a snug knit top featuring a center zip. The brand’s signature pinnie elements also made a return, incorporated into shirts and a textured workwear jacket. Andersen’s expertise in tailoring was evident in standout pieces such as a sleeveless coat and a smart asymmetric vest.
