What Is Scandi Style?
10 Jul 2024
Scandinavian fashion bloggers have recently taken over social media, dictating trends in their way and sparking widespread interest from audiences around the world. Over the past few years, fashion has transformed: many have prioritized convenience over trends. At the same time, minimalism, a general trend in fashion and lifestyle, is becoming increasingly popular. And such an approach would be approved by Scandinavian fashionistas who appreciate comfort in clothes. The last couple of years can be confidently considered the triumph of Scandi fashion style.
Today, Scandinavian girls compete for the palm of superiority with the French, whose style has long been considered the standard. But in the last few years, it is about the stylish residents of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway began to talk more and more. Clothing from this region invariably attracts attention with a combination of fresh and modern design solutions, as well as the use of quality materials. The Scandi style manages to combine French charm, the contrast of femininity and masculinity, minimalism, and a love for simple and clean silhouettes, as well as vintage.
Let's break down what is behind the modern Scandinavian style. If you've long wanted to familiarize yourself with this fashion style, we're ready to help: we tell you how to incorporate the trendy pieces into your closet.
Today, Scandinavian girls compete for the palm of superiority with the French, whose style has long been considered the standard. But in the last few years, it is about the stylish residents of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway began to talk more and more. Clothing from this region invariably attracts attention with a combination of fresh and modern design solutions, as well as the use of quality materials. The Scandi style manages to combine French charm, the contrast of femininity and masculinity, minimalism, and a love for simple and clean silhouettes, as well as vintage.
Let's break down what is behind the modern Scandinavian style. If you've long wanted to familiarize yourself with this fashion style, we're ready to help: we tell you how to incorporate the trendy pieces into your closet.
What Is Scandinavian Style?
Scandinavian style in clothing is also known as the Nordic style. This fashion has become popular not only in the Nordic countries but everywhere due to its restraint, simplicity, comfort, and sometimes unusual solutions. This style, inspired by the harsh climate and culture of Scandinavia, focuses on creating looks that are both stylish, comfortable, and adapted to everyday life. It encompasses not only clothing but a lifestyle that prioritizes comfort, convenience, and sustainability. It reflects the desire to live simply but tastefully, preferring things that are easy to combine and suitable for different occasions.
This is a fairly new trend, which originated in the 1st half of the 20th century. However, the first signs of the formation of the style date back to much earlier years, namely, the end of the 16th century, when Northern Europe began for the first time to abandon bright and attractive outfits in favor of more practical, though less aesthetic.
The first to do so was King Gustav III - at one point he decided to take off his luxurious outfits. He also, incidentally, laid the foundation for the Scandi style in the interior - took care of the large amount of light in the rooms. Since then, the style has undergone many changes but remains true to the main principles of the Scandinavian ancestors.
This is a fairly new trend, which originated in the 1st half of the 20th century. However, the first signs of the formation of the style date back to much earlier years, namely, the end of the 16th century, when Northern Europe began for the first time to abandon bright and attractive outfits in favor of more practical, though less aesthetic.
The first to do so was King Gustav III - at one point he decided to take off his luxurious outfits. He also, incidentally, laid the foundation for the Scandi style in the interior - took care of the large amount of light in the rooms. Since then, the style has undergone many changes but remains true to the main principles of the Scandinavian ancestors.
Defining Scandinavian-Girl Style
Social networks are the main generator of fashion trends. Almost every day new aesthetics, styles, and fashion techniques appear in TikTok, which then the whole world tries to replicate. So, recently we have seen a real boom: girls wore fur hats and heavy fur coats, and also thickly painted their lips with red lipstick. The aesthetic was called Slavic Bimbo Girl.
However, it's not just this style that interests Gen Z and fashion enthusiasts. While one-half of the influencers are trying to be a Slavic girl, the other half are imitating the Scandinavian fashionista. This trend has been dubbed the Scandi girl. And here's what you need to know about it. Let's take a look at the main features of Scandinavian fashion and share some tips for creating a unique look in this style.
Minimalism
Of course, the first thing that comes to mind at the mention of the Scandinavian countries is minimalism. How many books have been written about their special attitude to life and things, and how many movies have been made? Clothing in this style usually has clean lines, simple shapes, and a lack of unnecessary details. Stylists advise choosing basic things such as black or white blouses, straight pants, skirts, and monochrome sweaters that can be easily combined with other elements of the closet.
Universal color palette
One of the key reasons why Scandinavian style never goes out of style is its universal color palette, in which all shades perfectly complement each other. Scandinavian-style clothing is often presented in a neutral color palette. White, black, gray, beige, and sea wave are the main shades that will help to create a stylish and elegant image. But that doesn't mean that Scandinavian fashion neglects color! Today designers are trying to make clothes brighter, and recommend adding accents, such as a red bag or green booties, to create a striking contrast and give the outfit a fresh look. However, the classic Scandinavian style still prefers calm colors.
Natural fabrics
Another characteristic feature of the Scandinavian style is the preference for natural materials. Linen, cotton, wool, and viscose things are used. Cashmere, silk, leather, and suede things are also used. This approach is due to the Scandinavian weather. Even in the summer season in Norway, it is cold enough. Clothes and shoes made of natural materials allow you to comfortably endure the harsh weather.
Versatility
Scandinavians are adherents of the so-called "slow fashion", which implies rational consumption. Almost all clothes by Scandinavian designers are basic. Closet items are interchangeable and easily combined with each other. Due to restraint in colors, things remain relevant for many seasons. Therefore, northern fashionistas are not affected by the agony that girls experience, parting with their favorite cardigan because of the outdated print. On the contrary, the most popular thing in the closet of a Scandinavian girl is a classic white blouse, which never goes out of fashion.
Accessories and shoes
Minimalistic jewelry is another trademark of Scandinavian fashionistas. On them, you will never see large colored beads, boho-style rings, and chandelier earrings. Accessories practically become their continuation - they do not switch attention to themselves, but at the same time give the images originality. Of course, the rules of simplicity and calmness should be observed when choosing accessories. Scandinavian style implies restrained jewelry made of cold metals, comfortable shoes of basic colors, and accessories made of natural materials. One of the main details of the fashionable image in the Scandinavian style - voluminous scarves. Such an accessory is not only very relevant in cold countries but also looks great with restrained outerwear of this style.
However, it's not just this style that interests Gen Z and fashion enthusiasts. While one-half of the influencers are trying to be a Slavic girl, the other half are imitating the Scandinavian fashionista. This trend has been dubbed the Scandi girl. And here's what you need to know about it. Let's take a look at the main features of Scandinavian fashion and share some tips for creating a unique look in this style.
Minimalism
Of course, the first thing that comes to mind at the mention of the Scandinavian countries is minimalism. How many books have been written about their special attitude to life and things, and how many movies have been made? Clothing in this style usually has clean lines, simple shapes, and a lack of unnecessary details. Stylists advise choosing basic things such as black or white blouses, straight pants, skirts, and monochrome sweaters that can be easily combined with other elements of the closet.
Universal color palette
One of the key reasons why Scandinavian style never goes out of style is its universal color palette, in which all shades perfectly complement each other. Scandinavian-style clothing is often presented in a neutral color palette. White, black, gray, beige, and sea wave are the main shades that will help to create a stylish and elegant image. But that doesn't mean that Scandinavian fashion neglects color! Today designers are trying to make clothes brighter, and recommend adding accents, such as a red bag or green booties, to create a striking contrast and give the outfit a fresh look. However, the classic Scandinavian style still prefers calm colors.
Natural fabrics
Another characteristic feature of the Scandinavian style is the preference for natural materials. Linen, cotton, wool, and viscose things are used. Cashmere, silk, leather, and suede things are also used. This approach is due to the Scandinavian weather. Even in the summer season in Norway, it is cold enough. Clothes and shoes made of natural materials allow you to comfortably endure the harsh weather.
Versatility
Scandinavians are adherents of the so-called "slow fashion", which implies rational consumption. Almost all clothes by Scandinavian designers are basic. Closet items are interchangeable and easily combined with each other. Due to restraint in colors, things remain relevant for many seasons. Therefore, northern fashionistas are not affected by the agony that girls experience, parting with their favorite cardigan because of the outdated print. On the contrary, the most popular thing in the closet of a Scandinavian girl is a classic white blouse, which never goes out of fashion.
Accessories and shoes
Minimalistic jewelry is another trademark of Scandinavian fashionistas. On them, you will never see large colored beads, boho-style rings, and chandelier earrings. Accessories practically become their continuation - they do not switch attention to themselves, but at the same time give the images originality. Of course, the rules of simplicity and calmness should be observed when choosing accessories. Scandinavian style implies restrained jewelry made of cold metals, comfortable shoes of basic colors, and accessories made of natural materials. One of the main details of the fashionable image in the Scandinavian style - voluminous scarves. Such an accessory is not only very relevant in cold countries but also looks great with restrained outerwear of this style.
How to Dress like a Scandinavian Fashion Girlie?
Lately, fashion critics have been paying more and more attention to Scandinavia. Fashion Week in Copenhagen is not inferior to shows in New York, London, Milan, and Paris. And Scandinavian fashionistas are considered to be as much style icons as French women. We have carefully studied their images and collected some comfortable and stylish outfits that you can easily repeat this year.
Sporty jacket + jeans
One of the favorite things of Scandinavian fashionistas is a zippered sporty jacket. It easily fits into a variety of images and allows you to stay warm and cozy. To complement it girls offer basic jeans. Moreover, if French women prefer straight models, Scandinavians - wide. Such jeans do not constrict movements, hide possible flaws in the figure, and when paired with shoes with heels pull out the growth. As outerwear fashionistas choose a voluminous bomber. Especially relevant for them is a version of waterproof fabric. After all, rain is not a rare guest in Northern Europe.
Leather jacket + sweatpants
However, Scandinavian fashionistas are happy to apply current trends. For example, they are already wearing trendy popular sweatpants with leggings. These pants are a stylish and comfortable alternative to the usual gray joggers. The inhabitants of the northern countries suggest combining them with a bold leather jacket. Yes, they also like experiments. You get a spectacular combo in the spirit of the 90s. The final touch is a capacious bag. In it, you can put all the essentials.
Knitted suit
An integral part of the closet of Scandinavians is knitwear. After all, in Northern Europe, it is necessary all year round. And the most universal thing is a knitted suit. Most often fashionistas just put it on, combining it with sneakers or sneakers. And sometimes wear pants and a sweater (or a cardigan) separately. Under the latter, by the way, you can put on a basic T-shirt. A very practical and topical styling trick.
Cardigan + pants
Scandinavian fashionistas do not sacrifice comfort in the office. Like jeans, they choose wide pants and offer to complement them with a knitted cardigan. However, the latter must be tight. So the bow will maintain the balance of proportions. Under the cardigan wear a trendy polo or just a basic T-shirt - with them the outfit will be more interesting. And complete it with strict loafers.
Sweater + silk skirt
Elegant and at the same time cozy combo: silk maxi + sweater. Such a variety of textures will definitely make a fashionista out of you. The outfit is suitable for the office (if there is no strict dress code), for brunch with friends, and, of course, for a romantic date. Shoes can be anything from seductive slingbacks to laconic sneakers. You can complicate your look with stylish accessories: a long pendant, a trendy heart choker, or a minimalistic chain.
Wide pants
Nordic beauties like to emphasize their femininity with clothes in a masculine style, so they often wear loose-fitting pants in neutral shades. The stylish lady combines them with a black long-sleeve and a loose leather shirt. As for shoes, she uses practical shoes with a square toe. Contrasting the look are glasses with slightly darkened lenses, a white laconic bag, and a gold chain with large links.
Sporty jacket + jeans
One of the favorite things of Scandinavian fashionistas is a zippered sporty jacket. It easily fits into a variety of images and allows you to stay warm and cozy. To complement it girls offer basic jeans. Moreover, if French women prefer straight models, Scandinavians - wide. Such jeans do not constrict movements, hide possible flaws in the figure, and when paired with shoes with heels pull out the growth. As outerwear fashionistas choose a voluminous bomber. Especially relevant for them is a version of waterproof fabric. After all, rain is not a rare guest in Northern Europe.
Leather jacket + sweatpants
However, Scandinavian fashionistas are happy to apply current trends. For example, they are already wearing trendy popular sweatpants with leggings. These pants are a stylish and comfortable alternative to the usual gray joggers. The inhabitants of the northern countries suggest combining them with a bold leather jacket. Yes, they also like experiments. You get a spectacular combo in the spirit of the 90s. The final touch is a capacious bag. In it, you can put all the essentials.
Knitted suit
An integral part of the closet of Scandinavians is knitwear. After all, in Northern Europe, it is necessary all year round. And the most universal thing is a knitted suit. Most often fashionistas just put it on, combining it with sneakers or sneakers. And sometimes wear pants and a sweater (or a cardigan) separately. Under the latter, by the way, you can put on a basic T-shirt. A very practical and topical styling trick.
Cardigan + pants
Scandinavian fashionistas do not sacrifice comfort in the office. Like jeans, they choose wide pants and offer to complement them with a knitted cardigan. However, the latter must be tight. So the bow will maintain the balance of proportions. Under the cardigan wear a trendy polo or just a basic T-shirt - with them the outfit will be more interesting. And complete it with strict loafers.
Sweater + silk skirt
Elegant and at the same time cozy combo: silk maxi + sweater. Such a variety of textures will definitely make a fashionista out of you. The outfit is suitable for the office (if there is no strict dress code), for brunch with friends, and, of course, for a romantic date. Shoes can be anything from seductive slingbacks to laconic sneakers. You can complicate your look with stylish accessories: a long pendant, a trendy heart choker, or a minimalistic chain.
Wide pants
Nordic beauties like to emphasize their femininity with clothes in a masculine style, so they often wear loose-fitting pants in neutral shades. The stylish lady combines them with a black long-sleeve and a loose leather shirt. As for shoes, she uses practical shoes with a square toe. Contrasting the look are glasses with slightly darkened lenses, a white laconic bag, and a gold chain with large links.