Exploring Isaksen Design: A Tribute to Greenlandic Heritage
As February 2026 unfolds, Isaksen Design unveils a new collection of men’s T-shirts that blends fresh styles with beloved classics, rekindling the spirit of past collections that have resonated with their loyal clientele. The Greenlandic fashion house, helmed by Nickie Isaksen, continues its commitment to honoring Greenlandic culture, a hallmark of its aesthetic.
The new collection may be centered on menswear this year, but Isaksen is focused on expanding women’s offerings. “For women, we’re introducing a full collection, while this year’s men’s line will feature only T-shirts and jumpers,” Nickie explains, emphasizing the brand’s evolving vision.
Founded in 2002 by Nickie and her mother, Rita Isaksen, today Nickie is the sole owner of Isaksen Design ApS. The brand has firmly established itself as a family affair, with Rita playing an essential role in customer service and handling e-commerce operations from their physical store at Larsbjørnsstræde 11.
A Family Affair
Isaksen Design is indeed a family business, with every member contributing to its success. Nickie oversees design, production, and customer relations, while their eldest son, Malik Angelo Isaksen, is deeply involved in styling, social media content creation, and orchestrating music for fashion shows. The youngest son, Nuka Angelo Isaksen, also lends his talents in creativity and music to elevate events and showcases.
“It’s a blend of experience and fresh perspectives,” Nickie notes, showcasing how the family works together harmoniously to build the brand with both continuity and innovation in mind.
Reflecting on the company’s growth, Nickie remarks, “Since my mother and I launched in 2002, we’ve expanded tremendously.” Their collaboration with Dansk Mode og Tekstil in Denmark has further fortified their reach, providing valuable support in export, marketing, and legal matters.
Rooted in Cultural Heritage
Despite losing her native language after moving to Denmark, Nickie expresses a profound connection to her Greenlandic roots, which continue to inspire her design ethos. “My Greenlandic background has been the driving force behind my creative expression, both before and after studying at the London College of Fashion and the Skrædder Akademiet in Aarhus,” she shares.
Elements inspired by Inuit tattoos — dots and lines — frequently grace her collections. “I take immense pride in my heritage, and it’s crucial for my identity to reflect where I come from in my work,” Nickie asserts.
The commitment to quality and craftsmanship remains central to the Isaksen brand, with a focus on materials that ensure both longevity and functionality, primarily utilizing wool and jersey.
A Shift in Strategy
Over time, the company has honed its focus. “Today, we concentrate mainly on online sales, private label collaborations, and supplying local tourist shops,” Nickie explains. With plans to collaborate with a major tourism company in Canada, they are also establishing a presence in the heart of Copenhagen, just steps away from Strøget and Rådhuspladsen.
This strategic relocation is designed to foster connections with the vibrant creative community and attract a diverse clientele, including international tourists eager to engage with authentic design.
Embracing Sustainable Design
From its inception, Isaksen Design set out to share the narrative of Greenland’s heritage through sustainable design. “My inspiration stems from our spiritual connections, nature, and rich history,” Nickie emphasizes on her website.
The logo—a circle in red, black, and white—embodies eternal life, with each color symbolizing key elements of Inuit culture: black for the spiritual realm, red for the blood of life, and white for ancestral bones.
Navigating Changing Markets
Isaksen Design’s evolution has been accompanied by a shift in focus, particularly in the digital landscape, which has surged post-pandemic. “The shift towards online shopping has altered our market strategy,” Nickie admits, noting that this emphasis has led to the difficult decision to part ways with some long-standing retail partnerships.
As customer preferences shift, particularly among local clientele, Isaksen is adapting by prioritizing core products that resonate well with their audience. “While we sell mostly in Denmark and Greenland, we also have a significant customer base in the Nordic countries, Canada, and Europe, especially among cruise ship passengers,” she adds.
Collaborations and Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Nickie has ambitious plans for Isaksen Design. Collaborations with diverse clients—including organizations and small businesses—are integral to their growth. They are currently working with the Greenlandic band Nanook on custom merchandise and have an ongoing partnership with Air Greenland.
In Greenland, they collaborate with local businesses and tourist shops, where their products shine in environments that allow for optimal display. A recent fashion show in Katuaq emphasized their commitment to storytelling through design, celebrating the Greenlandic spirit with family involvement being a highlight of the event.
With their collection evolving and the family legacy firmly in place, Isaksen Design continues to weave the rich fabric of Greenlandic culture into its narrative, crafting a future that honors its past while embracing new horizons.