Scandi minimalist fashion is, was, and will probably still be all the rage in the world of fashion.
But it might look a little different from the sleek and simple monochrome style you recognize.
Scandi fashion has evolved with the times, and while most of it retains a timeless aesthetic that can seamlessly work its way into any wardrobe, it’s more contemporary than ever before.
Scandi fashion brands like Acne Studios and Stine Goya are bringing colors, patterns, and a new definition of cool to Scandi minimalist fashion. Here are the Scandinavian fashion brands you should keep a lookout for when shopping for your European-inspired fits.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Mark Liddell.
What to know about Scandi fashion
What is the fashion capital of Scandinavia?
Copenhagen, Denmark, is the fashion capital of Scandinavia but Stockholm isn’t far behind. Both are certainly underrated fashion capitals. Copenhagen Fashion Week is held twice a year, once in January/February and once in August, usually taking place before the “Big Four” kick off the international fashion week circuits of Milan and Paris.
What is Scandi fashion?
Scandinavia’s on-brand trend is Scandi minimalist fashion: a traditionally chic and well-tailored wardrobe. Think neutral tones in knitwear, simplicity and practicality in function, and a few elevated pieces.
Is Scandi still on trend?
Scandi is still on trend, though it’s evolving beyond its classical roots. Scandi minimalist fashion continues to walk the runaways of Copenhagen and Stockholm Fashion Week with the simple, clean, and practical style at its core. Contemporary Scandi fashion now makes an eco-conscious effort to focus on style that’s sustainable. You’ll also see more color pops, more patterns with the volume turned up, and more playful individuality.
Is there a difference between Nordic style and Scandi fashion?
Yes, there is a difference between Nordic style and Scandi fashion—a difference that’s also highlighted in other cultural hallmarks.
The long and short of it is that all Scandinavian things are Nordic but not all Nordic things are Scandinavian. Scandinavia refers only to the Scandinavian countries of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Nordic refers to Nordic Council countries, which are Finland, Iceland, the autonomous areas of the Faroe Islands, Greenland, and Åland, plus the countries of Scandinavia.
And while Nordic style can lay the foundation for Scandi fashion, remember that there are elements that can further define a sub-style, such as Danish and Swedish fashions.
Image Credit: Rains
The coolest Scandi fashion brands to know about
Rains
Where was Rains created? Copenhagen, Denmark
Scandi minimalist fashion is practical and straightforward, which is why Rains took the classic rain jacket and kept enhancing it until it became outwear worthy of your wardrobe. Rainwear suddenly became just as stylish as what it was protecting underneath.
Acne Studios
Where is Acne Studios based out of? Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is an underrated fashion capital of Europe, and the success of Acne Studios proves it. Celebs like Kylie Jenner front the campaigns for this Scandi fashion brand, though these luxury sweatshirts, scarves, and suit jackets won’t make you empty your wallet to fill your closet.
Stine Goya
Where is Stine Goya from? Copenhagen, Denmark
Stine Goya is one of the most popular Scandi fashion brands, though the eponymous designer set out to create clothing counter to the minimalist and muted Scandi style. She brought color and print to the forefront of her collections; now, hundreds of retailers are bringing her style around the world.
Image Credit: Fjallraven, Anette Andersson.
Fjällräven
Where is Fjällräven based? Örnsköldsvik, Sweden
If you’ve ever gone camping or trekking through a cold expanse of wilderness, you’ve probably walked alongside someone in a Fjällräven jacket. This popular outdoor clothing company is a Scandi fashion brand that started in a basement over 60 years ago.
Holzweiler
Where is Holzweiler made? Oslo, Norway
Two siblings in Norway set out to make a collection of scarves that were functional and flawlessly fit into your style. Two years later, their popularity exploded, and they expanded into ready-to-wear for women, men, and kids. From socks, shoes, and scarves, to shirts, skirts, and more.
We can’t dress you in the Scandi minimalist fashion of tomorrow, but we can get you to the runway for a Scandinavian or Nordic fashion week. Download the Trainline app and buy your tickets for train travel through Europe’s northern rim.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Jan Hakan Dahlstrom. Image Location: Sweden.