Fashion in Helsinki, what a pleasure it was

My main mission at this year’s Fashion in Helsinki, besides passing the New Talent crown to the 2026 winner, was to take part in a panel talk hosted by A Magazine Curated By and moderated by the brilliant Albert Shyong. The panel was held at Amos Rex, a spot-on setting for an international cultural conversation.

After hearing from the inspiring international panelists Taylore Scarabelli, Alain Paul, Luis Philippe, and Alexis Djouahra, I was thrilled to share the stage with Marimekko CMO Sanna-Kaisa Niikko. We had a fascinating conversation about Finnish fashion and its endless possibilities for international success. During my speech to the graduates, I heard some laughter, and that is what I count as success in Finland.

After the panel talk, I fully immersed myself in the Finnish Fashion Awards experience. Or at least I tried to. It so happened that I managed to get lost in Pasila’s concrete labyrinths. After an hour of wandering around trying to find the venue, I arrived just in time to give my best wishes to Anni, this year’s New Talent winner, and hand out my pink roses to my favorite winners. Rather quickly, however, I realized that I should have brought an entire rose garden. Could it be that I should be pickier about my favorites? Or nah, let’s just share the happiness and flowers!

Those fashionable days at the end of May were filled with interesting silhouettes, questionable dinner choices, and unforgettable encounters. Many problems were solved, and probably created, some wine was spilled, flowers were given, new inspirations were found, and walks home were made while the sun was already shining over Mannerheimintie.

Let's remember to plant the rose garden.