We all know Scandi fashion is fabulous, but why is it stylish; we take a deep dive into all things Scandinavian and come up with the answer, along with some style tips and advice on being more nordic.
With fashion moguls such as H&M and Acne, Scandi style came around the world on high streets and fashion weeks. But why is it so popular?
The Swedish style gives effortless vibes with its clean and practical design, quality denim, and sustainable vintage treasures – The pieces should be timeless and all-rounder.
PHOTO: Acne Studios store via Wikipedia
To dress like a Scandinavian is not tricky; think of the following tips before you go shopping next time:
Build a capsule wardrobe with high-quality items. You should build your wardrobe so that every top is compatible with every bottom. Same with coats and accessories. Your capsule wardrobe shouldn’t contain more than 50 pieces – but you need to make those 50 pieces count, and here’s how…
Not Everything Has to Be New
Shop second-hand or at charity shops. Look out for practical multi-talented items. Invest in high quality. Did you ever notice that Scandis look expensive? They invest in well-made items worth more than a pile of synthetic jumpers. As a plus, it is more sustainable, and they last longer.
Adding interest with vintage items is a great way to stamp your personality on an outfit while staying on message and in the Scandi vibe.
Get Your Layers On
PHOTO: @fakerstrom IG
Scandi dressing is all about layers. Oversized jumpers and ponchos over shirts, thick trousers layered with boots or tights, adding a cape – to name but a few, plus it’s practical for anyone in northern Europe who live through the seasons and unpredictable weather patterns.
Mix and match similar patterns, textures, and colors. Stick to basics for the central part of your wardrobe and have fun with the details.
Stay in Natural or Neutral Colors
PHOTO: Sophia Roe for Vogue Scandinavia
When every top has to work with every bottom, you need a specific color scheme that works with each other. The classics are black, white, grey, and beige.
Black on Black over Black is a go-to outfit, not only as work attire. As is beige, cream, and brown – so consider navy, black, grey, and white your go-to colors.
Neutral doesn’t mean boring; accessories are the key to Scandi style. Use scarves, hats, jewelry, and bags to spice up your look to add color and personality.
Love Nature
PHOTO: @pernilleteisbaek IG
The natural beauty of their surroundings inspires Scandis. Wear natural fabrics such as cotton, wool, and linen. Add some rustic vibes with accents like wooden bangles or jewelry that resembles the outdoors.
However, it’s not all about hippy chic in Scandinavia; town folk love a classic outfit too – sharp tailoring and simple but detailed design are prominent features in the modern capsule wardrobe.
Check out What’s in women fashion for the Spring 2023
Good Denim is Vital
Great denim goes with every color, and denim is a robust item in your wardrobe that will last for years. There are infinite choices of wash, cut, and colors – everybody can find the right denim to suit them, and no denim style is out (except for skinny jeans, maybe).
These tips are a recipe for building your wardrobe like a true Scandi. It’s all about combining your basics with high-quality items.
If you are considering taking some pieces into your wardrobe, consider sustainability, as it is – not only in fashion – an essential part of Scandinavians’ philosophy. They are very bound to their nature and try to make fashion slower.
If you are more interested now, you should look at the following Scandi brands and get some inspiration: ACNE, COS, Ganni, Monki, Weekday, Arket, Filippa K, Dr. Deni