For Danish designer Soeren Le Schmidt, this year’s Arts and Culture Ball in Copenhagen was monumental. Not only was it his first year being invited to the prestigious event, he also dressed 30 of this year’s attendees. Le Schmidt welcomed Vogue Scandinavia into his hotel suite as he donned actors and artists in the finest ensembles
On the 28th of February, the upper echelons of Danish arts descended upon Copenhagen for the Arts and Culture Ball. An annual event since 1976, this extravagant occasion welcomed invited representatives from the world of arts and culture, to be greeted by the King and Queen at the exquisite Christiansborg Palace.
Among them was esteemed Danish designer Soeren Le Schmidt. “Receiving an invitation was an overwhelming and deeply honouring experience,” he says. “I felt privileged to be chosen as a guest for such an important and elegant evening.” Having long garnered favour with the Danish Royal family, the designer was not confined to his role as an attendee. Overall, he was entrusted with dressing 30 guests. “Many people reached out to me – both men and women,” he says. “The dress code required tuxedos for men and long gowns for women. Since it was a ball celebrating arts and culture we had the opportunity to reflect that in the attire, allowing us to play with extra-large skirts, statement jewellery, long gloves and beautiful colours.”
Nikoline Le Schmidt, Søren's wife. Photo: Jannick Børlum
Actress Josephine Park. Photo: Jannick Børlum
Some of those Le Schmidt dressed included renowned actresses Sofie Rorp and Josephine Park, both of whom wore black duchess satin corset gowns, and musician Tessa who donned a light blue Cinderella-esque gown, and long gloves in a matching blue tone. Le Schmidt also turned his talents to his wife, Nikoline. The designer clad her in a dress from his December show at Korgens Nytorv: a grand white corset gown, featuring a visible black bustier and long black gloves. When it came to his own ensemble, Le Schmidt wanted to draw less attention to himself, opting for a classic black double-breasted tuxedo, finished with a cummerbund and bow tie. To add elements of edge and further glamour to his designs, Le Schmidt engaged fellow Danes for embellishments. Bracelets were provided by fine jeweller Dulong, while grills and bolder pieces came courtesy of Jane Kønig.
Nikoline Le Schmidt & Soeren Le Schmidt. Photo: Jannick Børlum
Getting ready in NH Collective. Photo: Jannick Børlum
Malte Ebert & DiddeMie. Photo: Jannick Børlum
“The atmosphere in the getting-ready suite at NH Collection was incredibly relaxed and enjoyable,” said Le Schmidt, who selected the hotel due to its proximity to his showroom, as well as its stunning views over Copenhagen. “There was music, champagne and an overall great vibe. Everyone was excited for the evening’s events.” Guests then traverse the Danish capital in a large black limousine, enhancing “the splendid sense of occasion.”
Soeren Le Schmidt & Nikoline Le Schmidt in the limousine . Photo: Jannick Børlum
Musician Tessa en route to the ball. Photo: Jannick Børlum
“The ball itself was magical,” said the designer. “The entire evening was filled with elegance, and unexpected moments, but what stood out the most was the sheer grandeur and attention to detail. I got to dance Les Lanciers for the first time in my life, which was so much fun. Every element contributed to an unforgettable experience. The entire night was truly one to remember and something magical I will never forget.”