Step aside, French ladies—we have new chic dressers on the block! While we will always have admiration for the Parisian sense of style, it does not hurt to have another group we can refer to should we refresh our wardrobe. If you haven’t noticed, all things Scandinavian are slowly becoming the talk of the town. Scandinavian culture and its concepts such as hygge, lagom and dostadning have pervaded lifestyle publications, interior design is being preferred and even their regional entertainment is entering global pop culture. You know where this is going—the trend, of course, also extends to fashion, which is why many It girls are seeking Scandi girls for style tips.

We’re assuming you’re after the same thing, especially now that you are on this page. We got you, girl! We’ll cover the basics, things that make the style stand out, so that you can get started updating your wardrobe.

Minimalism is a thing of the past

Often, when people think of Scandi fashion, they think of neutrals, and perhaps lots and lots of blacks. While that may be true some years ago, it no longer holds because the choices are becoming more daring. Prints, from relatively safe florals to wilder animal patterns, have been seen on the latest Copenhagen Fashion Week, if you need visual proof. The execution is clean and relaxed, though, so you end up standing out without overwhelming the crowd.

Don’t be afraid to show your personality

The good thing about neutrals is that it is easier to inject bolder pieces, so if you can’t just let go of the whites and blacks, there’s no judgment here so long as your own sense of style is what dominates your wardrobe. Wear your accessories, layer your clothes, the way you would, while still maintaining a relaxed aesthetic. Relax is the word to remember here, which is perhaps another way of saying not to force things.

Layer it up!

It might be because of the weather—it is not often that you’d find someone limbs out and free without added protection in the region unless the temperature is unconventionally higher. But Scandinavian fashionistas sure love their layers: over the dress, over a blouse or a shirt, and even with jeans, so don’t eliminate that baggy sweater or oversized coat completely from your selection. Layering also checks out our previous advice: it allows for personalization.

Save space for your staples

Another thing to remember about Scandi fashion is practicality. Trends come and go, so it pays to have reliable ones, investment pieces even, that would not go out of style. They often give room for versatility, and work on different styles. While fashionistas on their side of the globe appreciate brands, quality has precedence over luxury. So, invest on them, and keep them for the value they add to your collection.

Anticipate the seasons

There is a oft-repeated Norwegian saying which translates to “There’s no bad weather, only bad clothes”, so the occasionally harsh weather is no excuse to dress lousily. Preparing beforehand is the key… and then, don’t forget to apply the points we’ve raised earlier.

Comfort comes first

Scandinavian fashion appears cool and comfortable because they actually are cool and comfortable. Fashionistas often opt for flats instead of heels, oversized silhouettes instead of tighter ones, most of the time. The good that comes with it is that their sensible picks also fit many occasions, saving them from being considered boring and unfashionable.

Image credits: Christian Vierig, Soren Jepsen, Getty Images, Backstage Tales, Eva Al Desnudo / Highsnobiety.com