Copenhagen Fashion Week has us dressing like Scandinavian women once again – as if we weren’t already. The Red team have long been admirers of how effortlessly our Nordic sisters seem to pull off the perfect outfit, effortlessly styling simple basics to make every look feel cool and expensive. Think playful skirts paired with sporty tees and pointed ballerina flats; slouchy black sweaters layered over slim trousers with low kitten heels; and tonal monochrome ensembles to keep things sharp and edgy. Quality cuts and fabrics feel luxe and modern, with contrasting textures creating a casual look with sophistication.
One thing’s for sure: Scandinavian style is admired the world over, hence the influx of fashionistas to their SS25 event. But as always, the best advice on how to dress Scandi comes from those who know best: stylish Scandinavian women themselves. So we asked a handful of our favorites to share their top style principles, capsule wardrobe essentials, and go-to pieces. Scandinavian brandsfrom Ganni to Cos. Find out what they had to say below…
Our Scandinavian style experts
Josefine Aarstadfashion designer, @jlaastad
Marte Dahlgrenstylist and fashion consultant, @martedahlgren
Sarah Herland and Camilla Johnsenco-founders of jewelry brand Josephine, @sarahherland, @camillasvj
Cathrine SkovlyPR and marketing consultant, @cathrine.skovly
Practically speaking, it is important to use layers…
The five girls all noted that Scandinavia’s freezing winter temperatures require clever tricks to stay warm, making practical clothing a must. “We’re masters of layering, because we never know how many seasons we’ll get in a day,” says Marte. “Go-tos include thin, undetectable wool layers to wear under our regular clothes, and lightweight puffer vests like these from Uniqlo to hide under nice wool coats. Needless to say, a chic wool hat is a must—Shapka Cashmere makes the best ones. And for sturdy winter boots with a good grip, Norwegian-Italian footwear brand Diemme is a favorite among the Scandinavian style set.”
That said, Josefine points out that Scandinavian girls don’t let the pragmatic approach get in the way of fashion. ‘We always try to be stylish, even on snowy coffee trips at -20 degrees, which explains why [Danish brand] Ganni has collaborated with artists such as Barbour and 66°North!
…but don’t forget to have fun
‘We Scandinavians may be weather conscious, but we also like to add a touch of individuality and colour to brighten up the dark days,’ says Marte. ‘The Danes are really good at this – look to Ganni or Stine Goya for inspiration.’ She emphasises the importance of thinking about the details to add personality and interest to your look. ‘I love shopping second-hand to find something patterned or unexpected, like a fun printed blouse. The same goes for accessories – add a statement scarf, a great bag (I love ATP Atelier) or beautiful jewellery (Pearl Octopussy or Anni Lu) and any outfit will be lifted.’
Play with contrasting textures, too. “Even with a fairly simple wardrobe, Scandinavian girls are adept at mixing textures,” says Marte. “Think a silk skirt with a wool cardigan, or wool pants with a denim jacket. Simple doesn’t have to be boring.”
Josefine also loves how Scandinavian style has become increasingly playful (we’re obsessed with her sparkly denim jacket). “Scandinavian fashion has gone from being known and categorized as minimalism (think Filipa K and Acne Studios) to all florals and ruffles (Ganni and Cecilie Bahnsen),” she says. “Yes, we love quality fabrics like wool that we can layer to stay warm, but we’re also looking for color, texture, and volume to keep our energy up during the dark winter months. Because what’s better than feeling good about your clothes?”
Find your Scandinavian taste
Cathrine is originally from Norway but currently lives in Copenhagen. She has noticed that Scandinavian fashion varies from city to city. ‘In Copenhagen, people tend to have a cooler, more relaxed style,’ she says. ‘In Stockholm, you’ll find a more polished and polished vibe. Oslo’s fashion is just as polished, but as others have said, we’re very practical in the way we dress. Compared to our neighbouring cities, I think we spend the most on Gore-Tex and technical clothing, although Copenhagen girls have recently incorporated it into their street style looks too.’
Her personal style? ‘It’s probably a combination of Oslo and Stockholm influences: simple, classic and understated. My favorite brands are Toteme, Filippa K, Cos, Rohé, The Row and Sessei.’
Create a well-considered capsule wardrobe
When it comes to a Scandinavian outfit formula, Marte thinks it’s all about carefully curating a capsule wardrobe of great quality, timeless pieces that will last, which is also a sustainable approach. ‘A really good pair of sneakers are a must, as are leather shoes like loafers or boots,’ she says. ‘Jeans and other denim essentials can easily be dressed up or down – Acne Studios is a perennial favourite of mine and denim brand Jeanerica is increasingly popular – and good tees and shirts are essential, as are cashmere knits. Norwegian brand Julie Josephine is my go-to for perfect basics. Then don’t forget chic wool suits and blazers – they’re essential for a Scandinavian wardrobe, whether styled with sneakers for a more laid-back look or heels for an evening look. Mark Kenly Domino Tan, Envelope 1976 and Dagmar have some of the best.’
Cathrine echoes Marte’s advice, singing the praises of “a good pair of jeans” (she loves Toteme’s straight-leg style) and a trusty tee (from Cos or Julie Josephine), paired with white Converse sneakers or brown loafers. “For fall, I’ve got my eye on a great chunky knit from Norwegian brand OAD, and I’m looking to buy a new jacket from The Curated, which recently opened a new store in Copenhagen,” she says. “They have some great wool coats, and the quality is great for the price. They also have some lovely thinner pieces that you can layer under a blazer or sweater for extra protection from the cold wind. I’m also really impressed with Cos’ cashmere collection; I bought a few pieces last season and they still look brand new.”
Sarah also focuses on comfort, making sure that getting dressed each morning doesn’t require a lot of planning or effort. “I choose neutral colors like black, white, gray, and beige, and pick basic pieces in quality materials so that each piece can easily be paired with the others,” she says. Her go-to outfit is a pair of wide-leg jeans paired with a white T-shirt or oversized white shirt; a soft, comfortable cardigan or sweater; loafers and a belt. “I can then dress that up with jewelry—I prefer solid gold or silver pieces that won’t tarnish so I can wear them every day—or heels in the evening.”
Refine the basics with beautiful jewelry
‘I like to keep my hair and makeup natural and my wardrobe simple, and let my accessories do the talking,’ says Camilla. ‘For example, I like to dress in a nice pair of jeans and a basic white shirt, and elevate my look with some elegant, understated jewelry; a statement ring in solid silver and a few bangles on my wrist can make the outfit pop, or my current go-to is an 18k gold pinky ring with diamonds. The Scandinavian girl appreciates quality without showing off too much.’
Marte loves buying jewelry to keep as heirlooms. ‘Scandinavians love tradition, so anything that can be passed down to the next generations is our favorite,’ she says. ‘Jewelry from Ole Lyngaard or the wonderful girls at Josephine Studio would be the perfect gift for yourself.’
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