Fashion in Helsinki Runway Show 2024 was a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the vibrant fashion culture of Helsinki. The collections presented by Hedvig, Jenny Hytönen, Sofia Ilmonen, Rolf Ekroth, and VAIN left a lasting impression, showing the new standards of Finnish fashion. The Helsinki Shipyards, with its historical significance and industrial charm, provided a perfect backdrop, making the Runway Show night truly unforgettable.
Thanking for the invitation – Watch my video of the Fashion in Helsinki Runway Show here –
Video duration: 5:48
Fashion in Helsinki Runway Show 2024 in Helsinki Ship Yards
Fashion in Helsinki: A Spectacular Runway Show at Helsinki Shipyards
On the 29th of May 2024, the historic Helsinki Shipyards, located at Laivakatu 1, Helsinki, played host to an extraordinary fashion event—Fashion in Helsinki Runway Show. The event spotlighted some of the most promising names in Finnish fashion, featuring the latest collections from designers Hedvig, Jenny Hytönen, Sofia Ilmonen, Rolf Ekroth and VAIN. This memorable evening proved the vibrant and innovative spirit of Helsinki’s fashion scene.
The Designers
Hedvig
Based in Helsinki, HEDVIG was founded by Sofia Järnefelt and Taru Lahti in 2021. The collection was inspired by the peculiar life stories from the family history.
Fashion show partners: gloves by Sauso and bags by Borse & Cose
Jenny Hytönen
Jenny Hytönen brought a breath of fresh air with her bold designs. She was awarded in 2022 in the 37th International fashion, photography and fashion accessories festival in Hyères, which recognizes future talents in the international fashion industry.
Fashion show partner: shoes by Hagelstam
Sofia Ilmonen
Sofia Ilmonen is the founder and designer of her namesake brand that focuses on transformable modular garments. She has been awarded for her innovative approach to sustainable fashion.
Fashion show partner: Spinnova
Rolf Ekroth
Rolf Ekroth is an independent Finnish fashion label that champions utilitarianism, nostalgia and the power of sustainably produced clothes.
Fashion show partner: shoes by Jalas
VAIN
VAIN is an interdisciplinary design project by the Helsinki based artist Jimi Vain. What started as a one-man design project back in 2019 has since evolved into a prominent independent fashion label.
Fashion show partner: shoes by Sievi
Fashion in Helsinki 2024
The Venue: Helsinki Shipyards
The choice of Helsinki Shipyards as the venue added a unique charm to the event. With its nearly 160 years of history and industrial backdrop, the shipyard provided a striking contrast to the high-fashion runway. The location at Laivakatu 1, Helsinki, is symbolic of the city’s blend of tradition and innovation, making it a fitting stage for showcasing contemporary Finnish fashion in the catwalk show. The shipyard’s central location in the capital of Finland comes with strict environmental requirements. They have officially been granted an environmental permit for their operation, which is a major point of pride for the shipyard.
The Team Behind the Show
The success of the Fashion in Helsinki Runway Show was made possible by a dedicated team of professionals:
Event Producer: Miia Koski, Juni Communication
PR & Communication: Martta Louekari, Juni Communication
Art Director & Producer: Minttu Vesala
Show Director: Jim Bergström
Casting: Minttu Vesala & Jim Bergström
Stylist: Minttu Vesala
Hair: Miika Kemppainen & team, in partnership with Redken
Make-up: Jenny Jansson & team, in partnership with Lancôme
Sound Design: Jonas W. Karlsson & Minttu Vesala
Sound Producer: Jonas W. Karlsson
DJ & Sound: Anna Cadia
Backstage Manager: Justus Kantakoski
Show Coordinators: Peter Pohjola & Junior Michael Ventura
Model Coordinators: Dina Simonen & Katariina Haakila
Show Assistants: Elina Heilanen & Konsta Eskola
Show Production Assistant: Andre Pozusis
Sound Technique: Kimmo Räsänen, Capital AV
Helsinki Shipyard Producer: Eija Oraviita-Kaiku
Photography: Guillaume Roujas & Sebastian Johansson
Video: Rasmus Purola
The event in Helsinki was held in partnership with Helsinki Partners, Helsinki Shipyard, Lancôme, Redken, and 1664 Blanc.
Helsinki has plenty of excellent cafés that offer visitors beautiful scenery, lively city views, or peaceful seaside spots – a wide range of experiences for coffee or tea lovers. Whether you’re passionate about coffee, tea, or the art of food, Helsinki surely has a café to match your taste. This wasn’t always the case, as I wrote back in 2012, but Helsinki café scene is coming up strong. In this article, I present some of Helsinki’s best cafés, each with its own unique charm. The cafés are listed in random order, and all the café videos linked here are filmed by me.
You can also watch my full Helsinki café video collection here, just press the play button and be inspired!
Collection of Helsinki café videos
Best Cafés in Helsinki: A Visual Guide to Unique Experiences
Café Strindberg cake at the terrace
Café Strindberg Café Strindberg is a classic Helsinki café known for its elegant atmosphere and views of Esplanade Park. This long-standing establishment combines refined European café tradition with modern bakery craftsmanship. The selection includes fresh pastries, high-quality coffee and tea, and lunch dishes that can be enjoyed indoors or on the street-side terrace overlooking the city buzz.
Ateneum Bistro and Café Höijer Located in the heart of Helsinki, Café Bistro inside the Ateneum Art Museum is a perfect spot for art lovers. The café offers a peaceful and somewhat sophisticated setting where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea before stepping straight into the museum’s inspiring exhibitions. The combination of elegant décor and artistic surroundings makes this café a must-visit for those who want to blend art appreciation with relaxation. Visitors with a museum ticket can also enjoy refreshments in the stylish Café Höijer on the museum’s third floor. Watch a video from Café Bistro at Ateneum in Helsinki.
Café Kampela in Vuosaari Nestled between forest and sea in Vuosaari, Café Kampela provides a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle. Surrounded by nature, it’s the perfect place to enjoy coffee amid greenery and sea views in summertime or snow and frozen sea in winter. Kampela is a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking calm, though in summer the terrace is often full. Watch a video of Café Kampela in Vuosaari.
Carrot cake and house lemonade at Café Taideterassi
Café Taideterassi Café Taideterassi offers stunning city and sea views from high above central Helsinki. The panoramic view over Töölönlahti creates a tranquil atmosphere, turning a coffee break into a delightful experience. Their carrot cake is among the best in Helsinki – if simply not the best. Watch a video of Café Taideterassi.
La Torrefazione on Aleksanterinkatu La Torrefazione is a somewhat hidden gem located on the second floor along Aleksanterinkatu. From the café’s window tables, you get pleasant street views, as seen in the accompanying video. The café also offers delicious gluten-free options, both sweet and savory.
Cat Café Helkatti Cat lovers will adore Cat Café Helkatti in Helsinki. This unique café combines coffee drinking with the company of friendly cats. The cozy interior, where the cats freely roam, creates a relaxing and heartwarming atmosphere. Helkatti is the perfect place for a quiet afternoon with a book and a furry friend. However, visits must be booked in advance – you can’t just drop by when the coffee craving hits. Watch a video of Cat Café Helkatti in Kamppi, Helsinki.
Lactose-free and gluten-free caramel dream at Cajsan Helmi
7. Cajsan Helmi Opened in 2024 in Helsinki’s Kaisaniemi district, Cajsan Helmi (Cajsa’s pearl) brings a charming touch from Porvoo with its extensive tea selection and superb gluten-free pastries. If you love romantic lace and vintage charm, this café is made for you. But laptop companions are not welcome here – conversation is. With its location, it’s a dream stop for train travel lovers.
Café Engel – View of the Cathedral Café Engel, by Senate Square, is a stylish and iconic venue offering one of Helsinki’s most famous views – directly towards the Cathedral. Its historic setting, calm atmosphere, and excellent pastry selection make it a perfect spot for both tourists and locals. The summer terrace, in particular, is unforgettable on sunny days.
Seaside Café Torpanranta in Munkkiniemi Café Torpanranta in Munkkiniemi is a true gem for sea lovers. The café offers a peaceful environment by the water, far from the city noise. Its beautiful location makes it a popular place to relax over a cup of coffee. Watch a video of Café Torpanranta.
Café Ursula in Kaivopuisto Café Ursula, located in Kaivopuisto, is known for its wonderful sea views and cozy atmosphere. From the terrace, you can see the sea and Suomenlinna island. Friendly service and delicious offerings have made it a favorite among both locals and tourists. The café will close for renovation in autumn 2026 for about six months. Watch a video of Café Ursula in Kaivopuisto, Helsinki.
Café Succès in Ullanlinna In the beautiful Art Nouveau district of Ullanlinna, Café Succès combines historic charm with modern comfort. Its tasty treats and lovely surroundings make the terrace an ideal place for a peaceful coffee break during summer. Watch a video of Café Succès in Ullanlinna.
12. Patisserie Teemu Aura in Hakaniemi Located in Hakaniemi, Patisserie Teemu Aura brings a touch of Parisian elegance to Helsinki. This patisserie offers high-quality products, including excellent gluten-free options, and is a perfect stop after a stroll around the Hakaniemi Market. Watch a video of Patisserie Teemu Aura in Hakaniemi.
Café Kiasma Located inside the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art in central Helsinki, this café has always charmed visitors with its location, outdoor terrace, and fine tea and gluten-free selections. After your coffee, you can check out an art exhibition or browse art magazines in the museum library – simply wonderful. Watch a video of a rainy afternoon at Kiasma Café.
14. Café Esplanad Situated along Esplanade Boulevard, Café Esplanad offers a prime location with a spacious terrace. It’s an ideal place to people-watch and enjoy the lively city atmosphere in central Helsinki. The terrace provides a pleasant space for coffee or a light meal while observing the vibrant street life. Note: The café was closed in 2024 but reopened in summer 2025 after renovation – now featuring an inner courtyard terrace as well. Watch a video of Café Esplanad in the center of Helsinki.
Café Berry Located on Annankatu in the heart of Helsinki, Café Berry is a new and stylish café-bakery that opened in summer 2025. It combines craftsmanship, aesthetics, and high-quality ingredients in a surprisingly delightful way. With its French-inspired atmosphere, Café Berry brings a touch of southern light and Parisian café culture to Helsinki. Its inviting outdoor terrace is the perfect spot for breakfast, a lunch break, or an afternoon glass of wine.
Café Kasarmi in central Helsinki Pikku Finlandia summer terrace Seaside café in Lauttasaari Café Ekberg summer terrace
I will keep adding great cafés to this list as time and new discoveries allow – so stay tuned and subscribe to my blog! You can also suggest cafés for me to try.
– Café Biitsi in Vuosaari
For those who enjoy a beachside ambiance, Café Biitsi in Vuosaari is an excellent choice. Situated by the beach, this café offers a laid-back atmosphere with stunning views of the sea. It’s an ideal spot to unwind with a refreshing drink after a day of sunbathing or a leisurely stroll along the shore. The casual vibe and scenic location make Café Biitsi a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Located near the Amos Rex Art Museum, Café Lasipalatsi offers a blend of contemporary design and historical charm. The café’s modern interior and proximity to the museum make it a great place for art enthusiasts to relax before or after exploring the exhibitions. The vibrant atmosphere and artistic vibe in the terrace add to the café’s appeal.
