How To Dress Like A Scandinavian

Scandinavians are some of the most well-dressed people in the world with an innate ability to make an outfit look like ‘all this just happened without effort’.

From Norway to Finland, Denmark to Iceland, Scandinavia has some of the coldest, darkest winter days, but also the longest, summer ones too; meaning the men have really had to the master the art of dressing functionally, without shunning what it means to look good.

The Scandinavian is effortless; accentuated by his taste for simple, elegance – without sacrificing his luxury style. Winter is when the northern European gent shines, having learned the art of layering early on, as well as the importance of quality fabrics; be it mohair, wool, cashmere and fur, to keep warm.

Denim is everything to this gent. Purveyors of the raw, the jean is seen as an investment piece, underpinning both casual and smarter outfits with an air of cool always thrown in. Luxury sneakers help Scandinavians retain such street chic, as well as their mastery of minimalism – this region’s biggest contribution to fashion yet.

You may not be six foot tall, blond and chiselled, but let’s take a look at what it takes to feel quintessentially Scandinavian.

Be sure to click through the slideshow for key fashion brands that are native to this Nordic land.

Dark Overcoats With Denim Or Trousers

Making sleek work of Scandinavia’s infamous minimalist style, ‘sports chic’ is perfect for day-to-night occasions and looking killer on an off-duty day. Start with the palette – monochrome and dark.

Mixing navy, black and midnight blues adds definition to the otherwise streamline, wintry outfit. As does, the changing up of fabrics: leather, wool and neoprene (think wetsuit material) enhancing this melange of activewear and luxury – creating sports chic.

Symmetry is the third element. Jackets should be square, with clear, clean lines and the absence of utility details such as zips, pockets and cords. An absolute no-no is print and patterns, but for a touch of personality, play around with accessories –  beanies, scarves, gloves or leather bags – or the silhouette of pants, venturing into the depths of the drop-crotch trouser, if you’re confident enough to go that low.

Dark Suits With Leather Shoes 

Tailoring turns rather playful, in the physical and aesthetic sense. While the slim-fit, sharpness remains, the locals look to relaxed, cotton suiting for suits that move. Again, paring back the details is key; with men snubbing socks, belt and tie – letting the monochrome tones and cut of the suit be the feature.

Other times, mid-blue is a key suit fabric, laying down a palette for quirky accessories to pop; be it striped socks, polka dot ties, and camo pocket squares – in one outfit.

The common nuance is the updated leather shoe. From formal monks to Derby brogues, the play-it-up sartorialist is not complete without sneaker-hybrid lace-ups with comfortable, white soles for an active finish to tailoring.

Casual Wear With Sneakers

Rail, hail, sleet, snow or shine, a Scandinavian is never without his bike. And such transportation requires clothing that permits motion without looking like gym gear.

The foundation of this look is footwear, ranging from tennis shoes or chucks to more retro-inspired sneakers such as New Balance in vibrant reds, greens and blues. In winter, outerwear tends to be functional, like a hooded parka, with pockets to spare, carrying those essentials – phone, wallet and keys.

The lightness of a cardigan or an open shirt on a tee serves the summer biker well, but the essential cycling piece is the pant; ranging from relaxed denim (rolled cuffs taper the wider leg) to neutral-coloured cotton chinos – allowing much needed movement for pedalling. Ride on.

Knitwear & Layering

The close, wintry blows of the North Pole make Scandinavians masters of layering. And you won’t find shapeless puffer jackets or hideous thermal ski-pants on these streets. Instead, the men know how to mix formal and casual pieces, layering lustrous woollen topcoats over casual gear.

Texture can be reinforced with tweed coats, worn over sweaters, turtlenecks or a regular fit tee. Pants are relaxed sitting bunched over luxury kicks or leather boots for extra easiness.

Elsewhere, you can try variation of hybrid pieces like puffer style blazers or an oversized camel coat. Leather folio holders are chic additions for a day-to-soiree look. For a night-time look, opt for dark denim jeans with a belt.

Expert Opinion On Scandinavian Style

“Scandinavians find the elusive middle ground between looking refined and polished, and sporty and comfortable. Their tailored, more serious looks are always injected with a bit of character, whether its via the flash of a witty sock or stylish neckwear.” – Laura Wassermann, Trend Consultant.

Need More Inspiration?

Han Kjøbenhavn

Bowing in 2008, the Danish clothing sits at the intersection of high-end streetwear and accessible casual menswear. It’s a sophisticated look with traditional garments re-designed in a new stylish way. Look for the innovations in the details with this brand.

Won Hundred

The Danish label has its roots in both casual and formal menswear. Understated design reigns supreme at Won Hundred, where clean lines, artistic influences and a sharp eye for detail rule the day. Oh, and they make some killer denim.

Velour By Nostalgi

In 2005, the first Velour collection was launched. The Swedes use vintage as their inspiration, offering lean cuts, unique prints and pops of colour. Be sure to take note of their chinos.

Our Legacy

Both timeless and modern, is a hymn of praise to Swedish minimalism. Colour and fabric play unite for a label that looks texturally interesting but never overdone.

ANERKJENDT

Anerkjendt was founded in southern Denmark in an old authentic warehouse. As a streetwear brand, Anerkjendt draws from the street vibes all over the world before giving them the Scandinavian touch. This is achieved through hand picking fabrics before adding an extra edge and quality to their signature Danish design.

Norse Projects

With a focus on performance, quality and functionality, the Danish brand offers a range of technical and outerwear, rainwear and premium sportswear, for items both traditional and uber-contemporary.

Nudie Jeans

Nudie Jeans says it “is the Naked Truth About Denim.” Jeans range from tight and slim to regular fits, all available in dry denim, black and vintage washes. The selvedge ‘thin finn’ model are our favourite.

Rains

Rains launched in 2012 in a bid to renew the general view on rainwear – making it a fashion piece. Check out the sports-look macs in all your neutral hues as well as a luxury parka in waterproof fabric.