So much has been said about French chic. For a long time, Parisian women have set the standard for style. But it might be high time to look north where the local fashion scenes are having a moment. Scandinavian ladies, from Copenhagen, Stockholm and Oslo are proving that they are just as stylish as their French counterparts. We’re seeing sophistication, but also feel comfort, in the way these trendsetters carry themselves—there’s no question that it is indeed a breath of fresh air.
If we want to achieve the same kind of casual sophistication in the way we dress, it might be best to go to brands that are actually rooted in the region. Who else would know Scandi chic best than Scandi brands, right? Besides H&M, there is more to discover in Denmark, Sweden and Norway. Without further ado, here are 10 of our favorites from the emerging fashion capitals to help you get started in achieving that enviable Scandi look.
Acne Studios
Acne Studios is one of your better known Swedish brands, having its start in the 1990s when it gained recognition for its denim jeans. Founder Jonny Johansson later elevated the brand with concept collections that dabbled in art, photography and architecture. It is also known for its innovative ways in using fabrics and creating clothing, accessories and shoes. The pieces are available for both men and women.
Astrid Andersen
What Danish designer Astrid Andersen does best is injecting luxury into sportswear and sports-inspired clothing. She makes this possible by mixing materials usually associated with street style with finer, even delicate materials such as lace. When not working with her namesake label, the Royal College of Art graduate is also a consultant to brands Nike and Kopenhagen Fur. Her namesake label was founded in 2011.
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@leomieanderson closing down 2019 on January 6th ?? aw19 collection #lcm
By Malene Birger
By Malene Birger is a label that speaks to the modern woman, especially one who leads an active life. Its Danish designer Malene Birger often borrows useful elements from mens’ tailoring and then mixes them in with lovely embroidery or mesmerizing prints. Pieces from the brand are intricate but also wearable, perhaps owing to the fact that Birger largely draws inspiration from her travels.
By Timo
By Timo has been around for less than two decades but it already has perfected the vintage-inspired, bohemian-like clothing and its matching accessories. Rich colors and playful prints fill its feminine collection. The brand also has a reputation for being a royal favorite, as Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit is reportedly a fan. Equally admirable as its pieces is its social causes, providing employment to women who were once victims of abuse and ensuring that its production remains ethical.
Cecilie Bahnsen
Ask Scandinavian tastemakers to name their top Scandi brands and it’s highly likely that you’d encounter Cecilie Bahnsen. Founded by the designer who shares the name, the label is set to become your go-to for more fanciful Scandi frocks that dispel the notion that Scandinavian style is strictly minimalist. Cecilie Bahnsen is also known for her sculptural pieces, each made carefully by hand and traditional techniques. The brand also likes using unique fabrics.
Ganni
If you often refer to Instagram for style inspiration, then you probably know of Ganni, a favorite among our online It girls. The wearable pieces from the brand encourage mixing and matching, and proves that doing so doesn’t have to be so difficult. Ganni is also a haven for denim, which is interpreted in more ways than one. Other staples, like tees and biker jackets, are fan favorites as well.
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House of Dagmar
Everything you expect from a Scandi brand can be applied to the House of Dagmar: effortless, classy, and subtle. The prints that observe the trends of the season are complemented by relaxed tailoring. It is done exceptionally well that the brand has turned into a cult brand. It was founded in 2005 by three Stockholm-based sisters Sofia Wallenstam, Karin Söderlind, and Kristina Tjäder.
Little Liffner
If you need a new Instagram-friendly bag in hand, Paulina Liffner Von Sydow’s Little Liffner is the brand to know. The handbags are clean, made of high quality material, and come in different rich colors. It has the charm of a vintage accessory but does not necessarily share its price. The decorations are minimal, but the silhouettes are striking.
Rotate
Need something sexy and fun but not overplayed for a party? The label Rotate knows just what you need. Founded by influencer-slash-stylists Jeanette Friis Madsen and Thora Valdimars, the brand is not shy about embellishments, willing to experiment with silhouettes, and daring with colors. You’ll find it hard not to have a good time while in a Rotate frock.
Saks Potts
Shielding yourself from the chills does not have to be boring. Take it from Copenhagen-based brand Saks Pott, unafraid to bring in bright colors and eye-catching patterns to their outerwear collection. What makes the brand even more interesting is that it takes inspiration from art, and is totally game to play with unusual fabrics. The brand made its debut in the New York Fashion Week last year, undoubtedly prompting the New York crowd to take notes on the Danish sense of style.
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COLLECTION 10 CAMPAIGN BY CASPER SEJERSEN. AVAILABLE NOW – SAKSPOTTS.COM
Image credits: Acne Studios, Craig McDean, Astrid Andersen, Rasmus Luckmann, By Malene Birger, By Timo, Cecilie Bahnsen, Ganni, House of Dagmar, Little Liffner, Rotate, Saks Potts
