Style Lessons You'll Only Learn From Scandi Countries

Scandi style is the fashion obsession which won’t go away, and rightly so: they’ve managed to bring stylish, functional dressing to everyday life, and commuting professionals will always thank them. Read our guide to the ultimate Scandinavian style lessons.

Buy a good blazer

If there was one takeaway from Copenhagen Fashion Week, it was that the blazer is the ultimate versatile piece in a Scandinavian’s wardrobe. Whether worn hanging loose across shoulders, incredibly oversized or as a smart, cropped addition to straight black trousers and heels, it’s a fail-safe way of pulling outfits together.
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Invest in black

Believe the clichés – everyone in Scandinavia dresses in black, most of the time. Opt for high waist, wide-leg trousers and jeans and invest in a simple, oversized long wool coat for winter. You’ll fit right in.
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But don’t be afraid of colour!

Crucially while black and dark neutrals will do all the heavy lifting, Scandinavians have also nailed the art of added powerful splashes of colour to create stand-out looks. Start by adding playful twists into outfits through accessories – red boots are the look of the season – or play with more statement looks through pink suits.
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The importance of staples

‘Simple, cool, wholesome’, is how the creative director of Scandinavia’s biggest fashion trade fair, Kristian Andersen described Scandi style when we asked him last year, and it’s a key mantra to take with you. In practice this means that investing in neutral staples are key, and thankfully there’s a whole host of Scandinavian stores – Cos, & Other Stories, Weekday and the recently launched Arket – to keep you supplied.

You can wear trainers with anything

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Embrace cosy

Nothing says Scandinavian like an oversized polo neck, preferably camel-coloured luxurious cashmere, though a good chunky, white knit will suffice. Combine the cosy style vibes with a Hygge-inspired life re-organisation and get ready to have your best, cosiest winter yet.
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About the author

India Doyle

A contributor to titles including Vogue, the Guardian, KEIN, Rollacoaster, Wonderland and Twin magazine, India Doyle joined Culture Trip to help launch their fashion section for the EMEA region, where she focussed on giving emerging designers across the globe a platform to reach international audiences. Now based between London and Greece, she is one of Culture Trip's Greek contributors and covers cultural life in Athens.