Scandinavian Chic Style Secrets
If I were to encapsulate the essence of Scandinavian style in just three words, they would be minimalism, contemporary, and neat. These attributes have arguably driven its surge in popularity in recent years. The first time I encountered the Scandinavian style was through the concept of a capsule wardrobe, which seems to have similar principles. The philosophy of ‘less is more’, coupled with the belief that your wardrobe should comprise functional yet aesthetically pleasing pieces, is a fundamental aspect of the Nordic fashion ethos.
In this blog post, you will find the main style tips for Scandi-chic and some of the most stylish Nordic women who constantly inspire me.
Minimalist Aesthetic
A defining characteristic of Scandinavian style that you’ll immediately notice is its minimalist appeal. Women in Nordic regions typically choose garments with uncomplicated, sleek designs. Rather than romantic embellishments like ruffles or embroidery, you’re more likely to see soft, fluid fabrics taking center stage.
Muted & Neutral Color Palette
The Scandi-style wardrobe predominantly features subdued and neutral hues, which perfectly complement the typically grey and coastal weather of Scandinavian countries. This neutral color palette contributes to maintaining a minimalist aesthetic, even when layering for colder climates. A common styling tip in Scandi fashion is to adopt a monochromatic or tonal approach, which aids in achieving a crisp, contemporary appearance.
Comfort & Functionality
The frigid weather in Nordic regions greatly influences the Scandinavian style, with a strong emphasis on functionality. The standard for quality and utility of clothing items is quite high, meaning every piece should have a specific function. Comfort often takes precedence over visual appeal in this fashion ethos. As a result, flat footwear like sneakers can frequently be seen at formal occasions or evening social events.
Androgynous design
Nordic regions are renowned for their emphasis on gender equality and inclusivity, making the adoption of gender-neutral fashion a natural progression. The Scandi style often incorporates less gender-specific silhouettes that can be worn by all, further underscoring the importance of comfort and practicality. Gender-neutral items such as oversized blazers or straight-leg jeans are common, showcasing an androgynous approach to design.
Going Oversized
Androgynous design is often characterized by the use of an oversized silhouette, a hallmark seen prominently in Scandinavian street style. Key pieces like boyfriend shirts, slouchy pants, and oversized coats are common. However, to bring a hint of femininity into the mix, many Nordic women opt to accentuate their waistlines, blend fitted items with larger pieces, or accessorize with items such as jewelry or heeled footwear.
Elevated Basics
The Scandinavian style, known for its minimalism, places a significant focus on premium basics with an occasional creative flair. This could involve unique forms and cuts, such as asymmetric tank tops. When sourcing these high-quality basics, it’s crucial to pay attention to the material composition and the quality of the stitching. Such elevated basics are key to crafting a minimalist, sleek, and contemporary aesthetic.
What About Accessories?
The charm of Scandi chic, as exemplified by Scandinavian fashion influencers, lies in the thoughtful use of accessories. Nordic women often opt for minimal or no jewelry to maintain a clean aesthetic. Other elements like footwear and handbags typically come in neutral shades. Modern design statement pieces, such as sunglasses, bags, or jewelry, can be used to retain a contemporary feel. The minimalist attire allows these accessories to shine, particularly when they feature a burst of color. The result is an uncomplicated, uncluttered look that is quintessentially Scandinavian.
Fashion Brands With Scandi Chic
Several brands have made a name for themselves with their Scandinavian-inspired fashion:
a. Arket – This brand offers Scandi minimalist chic for everyone, from adults to children. Their designs are sleek and modern, crafted from high-quality, sustainable materials.
b. TOTEME – TOTEME is a premium Swedish brand for women that combines minimalist, modern, and practical designs. While their products come with a higher price tag, you can often find their items second-hand on sites like Vestiaire Collective and eBay.
c. Anine Bing – This luxury brand blends Scandinavian design elements with an American rock-n’-roll vibe. Like TOTEME, many of its items can be found second-hand on the aforementioned websites.
While my wardrobe isn’t entirely Scandi chic, I do incorporate some of its key aspects such as the oversized style, elevated basics, and the use of neutral colors. You too can adopt the Scandi-style elements that best align with your personal style and lifestyle.