Scandinavian Fashion
Designed by Hyouji Joo
In recent years, Vogue has dubbed Copenhagen as the “fifth fashion week” destination, leading the charge on defining “Scandi style” in the fashion world. Scandinavian style was once primarily known for its bold colors and whimsical silhouettes, but a novel definition of the northern European aesthetic is slowly emerging. Modern Scandi style focuses on functional fashion through neutral investment pieces and layered looks. While Nordic fashion still features colorful accessories and bold statement pieces, these elements do not define the style. The latest Copenhagen Fashion Week shows highlight looks characterized by comfort, sustainability, and timelessness. This gradual paradigm shift is a direct result of increased regional sustainability efforts and rich welfare states, which have altered the scope of Scandinavian fashion.
In the early 2000s, Scandinavian style was considered relatively bohemian. As the 2010s approached, the style shifted back to simplistic shades and silhouettes. In recent years, bright palettes with pigmented stripes and diverse textures have crept onto the scene – taking off in the Danish capital. Today, Nordic fashion is a combination of principal 21st century trends. Northern European style is centered around minimalistic pieces and mindful consumption, featuring colorful accessories that can be easily reworn in any season to keep up with the region’s fickle weather patterns. According to Vogue, Scandinavian designers view their style as a celebration of natural beauty that unites form and function through an emphasis on quality craftsmanship.
Nordic fashion is comfy, ethical, and slow – with a targeted focus on long-lasting pieces. Danish street style emphasizes elevated neutral pieces for an effortlessly casual look. CPHFW 2025 emphasized investing in suede staples, colorful button-ups to contrast neutrals, and a transitional trench coat to wear over ribbed spring tanks or woolen winter knits.
Modern Scandinavian looks feature pigmented statement pieces such as colorful knit scarves or vibrant claw clips for the “cherry on top” of a practical outfit. Not to mention, pedestrians prefer to fight the Copenhagen cold in style by embracing the art of layering. Doubling up on sweaters or jackets is commonplace on streets of the Danish capital – where everyone is excited to take vivacious risks by breaking up clean lines and maximizing a monochromatic moment with myriad textures.
Regional sustainability efforts have influenced this stylistic shift. Scandinavia is deeply concerned about climate change, with the regional governments actively working towards sustainable solutions. Denmark is a global leader in environmental awareness efforts, recycling 2/3 of national waste (compared to 1/3 in the United States) with a goal to reduce 70% of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Copenhagen Fashion Week has a sustainable action plan that requires brands to meet certain guidelines before allowing models to walk in their shows. For instance, CPHFW brands cannot employ single-use props in their shows and must agree to repurpose any unsold clothes. Danish brands like Ganni and Aiayu have even implemented initiatives to promote circular fashion, decrease their carbon footprint, and source sustainable fibers such as organic cotton and llama wool. Larger players in Denmark, such as the Global Fashion Agenda and the Danish Fashion Ethical Charter, aim to redefine national, regional, and global sustainability efforts in the fashion space. Prioritizing environmental efforts has shifted the focus of Danish consumers, who participate in slower fashion movements to prioritize ethics and durability while shopping.
Denmark is famous for its strong welfare state that provides low-cost healthcare, education, and social services to all; rooted in the belief that all citizens should have the resources to pursue reasonable, “hygge” filled lives. The Scandinavian welfare model contributes to Copenhagen’s thriving luxury market, since consumers can afford to spend more on higher quality products that will last them a lifetime – rather than spending their extra earnings on college tuition. The Danish capital is also experiencing a rise in its second-hand luxury market due to increased environmental consciousness across the country. Copenhagen is home to a thriving thrift scene, with consumers flocking to charity shops, curated vintage boutiques, and clothing swaps. Pre-owned luxury shopping is highly encouraged by brands participating in Copenhagen Fashion Week, while consignment stores like Second Society and The Vintage Bar specialize in the resale of authentic designer pieces.
The evolution of Nordic style throughout the 21st century is incredibly exciting. Scandinavian sustainability efforts and robust welfare states have contributed to the rise in mindful consumption, showcased through Copenhagen’s emphasis on ethical production and second-hand shopping. These elements have turned a new leaf for Scandinavian fashion that showcases regional values and the importance of choosing timeless staples over fast-fashion trends. Copehagen has initiated a new era of Scandinavian fashion, it’s only a matter of time before other fashion capitals start to take notes!