Norwegian fashion brand HØST & VÅR has just launched its newest collection, ‘Tropisk Gudinne’, inspired by the tropical allure of Mother Nature and the female form. Founders Elsa Fredrikke Nedrebø and Gunn Auglend Nedrebø discuss the collection's vibrant themes, sustainable practices, and their commitment to celebrating natural beauty and joy.
‘Tropisk Gudinne’, which translates to ‘Tropical Goddess’, represents a fresh and evocative homage to nature and femininity. The collection’s inspiration draws heavily from a day spent on the picturesque private island of Flor & Fjære, located near Stavanger, Norway. “We were completely enchanted by the island’s tropical essence,” Elsa Fredrikke Nedrebø reveals. “With its palm trees, flowers, and stunning beaches, it was the perfect backdrop for the ideas we had in mind. We aimed to create something distinctly different from typical Norwegian designs, embracing a lush, tropical aesthetic.”
This latest collection continues HØST & VÅR’s dedication to using sustainable fabrics. The designers stick to their tried-and-true materials, including cupro, a regenerated cellulose fibre made from cotton waste, along with organic cotton, recycled polyester, and modal. “We’re committed to maintaining our sustainable practices,” Elsa Fredrikke explains. “Our use of cupro and other eco-friendly materials aligns with our values and ensures that our pieces are as kind to the planet as they are beautiful.”
The colour palette of ‘Tropisk Gudinne’ features a vibrant mix of pink, green, yellow, and blue tones, echoing the hues found in tropical landscapes. “Interestingly, we always end up using these colours in different shades for each collection,” Elsa Fredrikke says. “We ensure the palette remains fresh and appealing while sticking to what our customers love and expect from us.”
The collection exemplifies HØST & VÅR’s philosophy of cross-seasonal fashion. The designs are described as timeless yet playful, with a balance between detail and simplicity. “Feedback from our clients has been overwhelmingly positive,” Elsa Fredrikke notes. “They appreciate how our pieces remain relevant and enjoyable across seasons. We focus on creating designs that are not overdone but feature just enough detail to keep them interesting.”
One of the standout features of this collection is its attention to fit and comfort. “We’ve incorporated smocked and elastic details to enhance the wearability of our dresses,” Elsa Fredrikke explains. “These small adjustments make a significant difference, allowing for a more inclusive fit. We’ve received great feedback on this aspect, and it’s clear that our customers value the extra comfort and flexibility.”
In terms of craftsmanship, ‘Tropisk Gudinne’ introduces only one new garment shape. Instead, the collection revisits popular styles from past collections, creating what the designers call a “hero collection.” “We wanted to build on what our customers already love,” Gunn Auglend Nedrebø says. “By bringing back beloved designs from as far back as 2015, we’re creating a sense of familiarity and reliability, while still offering something new and exciting.”
HØST & VÅR’s commitment to ethical production and minimal environmental impact remains steadfast. The brand has intentionally scaled down production to avoid overstock and reduce waste. “Producing smaller quantities ensures that our pieces sell out rather than contributing to the fashion industry’s overproduction issues,” Elsa Fredrikke explains.
Customer feedback has been exceptionally positive, with many praising the collection’s unique blend of fun and sophistication. “We’re thrilled with the reception,” Elsa Fredrikke says. “Our global expansion is going well, and we’re particularly excited about the response from the UK. People appreciate our distinct approach, which sets us apart from typical Scandi brands.”
Gunn Auglend Nedrebø adds a personal note on her philosophy towards fashion and self-expression. “I’ve always believed in embracing challenges and staying true to oneself,” she reflects. “Fashion should be about standing out and being proud of who you are. It’s about wearing pieces that make you feel confident, whether it’s for a wedding, a holiday, or just an ordinary day.”
With ‘Tropisk Gudinne’, HØST & VÅR not only offers a vibrant and sustainable collection but also encourages wearers to celebrate their individuality and enjoy every moment. As the brand continues to grow and captivate audiences around the world, Elsa Fredrikke and Gunn Auglend Nedrebø remain dedicated to their vision of creating joyful and timeless fashion.
Shop the collection here.
