Scandi style, Scandi-core, Scandi-cool — whatever you choose to call it, the aesthetic has been making major waves in fashion for years. Scandi style gets its name from the Scandinavian region it hails from, though these days, you’ll find fashion girlies all over the globe trying to emulate the look.
Traditionally, Scandi style was known to be all about simplicity and polished minimalism. Street style out of Stockholm or Oslo was typically void of chunky jewelry, crayon-box hues, and oversized fits. But peep the outfits spotted at any Copenhagen Fashion Week over the last few years and you’ll see a totally different style, full of loud prints and bright colors. Think dopamine dressing and experimentation, without ever looking cartoonish or over-the-top. You could call it the “Ganni effect” after the Danish brand that gave us funky striped vests and trendy T-shirts with punchy graphics. However, Ganni is far from the only Scandinavian label producing bold and quirky clothes.
The core qualities of a Scandi wardrobe
Whether clean and classic or bright and bold, there are a few key features that define the typical Scandi look. For one, comfort and coziness are a common thread among your average day-off outfit in Scandinavia. If something isn’t practical and doesn’t feel good to wear, it likely won’t make the cut in a Scandi girl’s closet — which shouldn’t come as a surprise, given that Scandinavia is the birthplace of hygge. In this way, Scandi-core isn’t so different from French girl style.
On that note, what people wear in Northern Europe has to adhere to the chilly and often rainy weather common in the area. In Scandinavia, outerwear isn’t an afterthought the way it might be in some other places. People are likely to splurge on high-quality coats and fill their closets with several warm jackets. Scandi women are also used to strategically layering their garments, which can make for more unique and interesting outfits. Think a turtleneck peeking out from under a knitted vest or a long-sleeved T-shirt layered under a flowy dress.
Those who live in Denmark, Sweden, or Norway also know that authentic Scandi style has to accommodate an active lifestyle. Residents in Denmark and Sweden are among the most active in the EU, according to a Eurobarometer survey, and biking and walking are common ways to get around in many cities. That might be why you’ll often find an athletic edge to Scandi-core. Brightly colored sneakers, athleisure leggings, and windbreaker jackets are staples in many Scandi wardrobes.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning that many locals prioritize sustainability, an attitude that many brands based in the region have also adopted. Shopping can often mean heading to the thrift store or investing in long-lasting materials, rather than stocking up on fast-fashion buys.
The Scandi style aesthetic isn’t so easy to pin down
Scandi style has been evolving for years, and as new brands debut and trends come and go on social media, Scandinavian fashion will likely continue to change. One reason why the style isn’t so easy to define anymore is that Scandinavia itself isn’t one cohesive, homogeneous place. It consists of three countries, each with its own distinct culture and set of trends. And even within each country, everyday styles can vary depending on the city and area.
Stine Goya, a prominent Danish designer, said it best in an interview with Harper’s Bazaar: “I don’t believe that there is such thing as the Scandi look. Scandi fashion is so many things at once, but Danish style in particular is driven by gut instinct. It’s really about feeling good, pairing comfort and practicality with self-expression and individuality. We are not afraid to take a risk.”
How to dress like a Scandi girl
Clearly, there isn’t one right way to emulate Scandi style, nor is there a formula to follow. With that said, there’s something so effortless and fun about the aesthetic that we can’t help but continue to look to it for inspiration. Below, real Scandi girl outfits for those days when it feels like you have nothing to wear:
Emili Sindlev is one of the most iconic Scandinavian style influencers, and she’s never afraid to try something new. Here, she sports a bandana (perfect for no-wash days), a roomy leather jacket, and super casual flip-flops.
Remember how we said outerwear isn’t an afterthought in Scandinavia? Chilly weather is the perfect excuse to wear a whimsical floral coat.
Swap your sweats for an outfit like this one. It’s still just as casual and comfortable, without looking like you just rolled out of bed.
A classic long coat, elevated tote bag, and comfortable pair of sneakers screams Stockholm. When put together, the look is polished yet practical.
It’s cold outside and there’s an 85% chance of rain? Typical in Scandinavia. Instead of staying inside, throw on a hoodie, cable-knit sweater, and baseball cap, and top it all off with a pair of statement flats. Done.
Fun layering? Check. Classic yet sporty? Check. Some unexpected pops of color? Check. Consider this look the epitome of Scandi style.
Typically, Scandi style isn’t as serious as, say, New York City fashion, and this outfit is proof. Colorful bag charms, a Mickey Mouse T-shirt, and checkered shoes somehow all work, especially when complemented with a timeless trench.