The North Face has a long history of pushing the boundaries of technical outerwear, while Cecilie Bahnsen has built a reputation for reimagining femininity through sculptural, ethereal design. Now, the two brands are joining forces for the first time to redefine performancewear.
Released on March 13 and almost entirely sold out, the centrepiece of the seven-piece collection is the Glenclyffe Boot. First unveiled on Bahnsen’s SS25 runway, the silhouette reimagines The North Face’s iconic hiking boot with Bahnsen’s couture-inspired embellishments.
Featuring a sleek sneaker-like profile, the boot is engineered for all-weather versatility with a waterproof, windproof, and breathable DryVent™ upper. A reinforced toe box and a toggle-drawstring system around the ankle ensure stability and support, while Cecilie Bahnsen’s signature 3D floral appliqués scatter across the silhouette. Inside, a removable slipper, secured with delicate velcro floral accents, offers an additional layer of comfort and can be worn on its own.
Beyond footwear, the full collection translates The North Face’s performance-driven heritage through Bahnsen’s ultra-feminine lens. Delicate, voluminous layers drape across rugged outerwear like the Mountain Jacket and Basecamp Duffel. A monochrome palette of black grounds the collection, while couture-inspired details – scalloped edges, intricate appliqués – add a touch of Bahnsen’s softness. “This collaboration builds on the way women around the world wear my designs in their own way,” Bahnsen explains. “The North Face’s technical expertise not only complements my designs but elevates how they’re lived in, effortless, functional, and ready for every day.”
To celebrate the release, The North Face and Bahnsen enlisted a trio of powerhouse athletes for the campaign: Olympic silver medalist Brooke Raboutou, five-time UK national lead climbing champion Molly Thompson-Smith, and pro climber Solenne Piret, who walked in Bahnsen’s SS25 show. Shot at Fontainebleau, a legendary climbing destination near Paris
, the campaign highlights the collection’s balance of strength and grace. “Seeing these strong, inspiring women embody both elegance and resilience while climbing in the designs was incredibly moving,” Bahnsen adds.
The retail experience extends the collaboration’s hybrid ethos, blending climbing-inspired elements with couture aesthetics. Rock formations and custom floral accents nod to both The North Face’s exploration roots and Bahnsen’s intricate design language. If you want to be among the lucky few who own some of the collection, make sure to head here while stocks last.