It might be unbeknownst to you, but Scandinavia encompasses a portion of Northern Europe, specifically Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, all of which share similar climates, cultures, and lifestyles. It is these distinct factors, as well as their shared heritage, that has resulted in the world-renowned Scandinavian design.
Already a signature aesthetic in certain circles (we’re looking at you, Ikea), the Nordic fashion sense hasn’t yet caught on in quite the same way as interior design, despite how cool it is.
Unpretentious, minimal, and effortless are just a few of the words that come to mind when we think of the clean cut Scandinavian style. But how do you actually pull it off? Before we get into some of our favourite Scandinavian brands, here’s a quick crash course.
Defining Scandinavian men’s style
In our comprehensive guide to dressing like a Scandinavian – which you can read here – we highlighted that the Scandinavian look is effortless, and is accentuated by simplicity and elegance. Winter is when Scandinavian style shines; think the art of layering, as well as the importance of quality fabrics – be it mohair, wool, cashmere, and fur – to keep warm.
Denim is a key element of a Scandinavian wardrobe. Jeans are 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.
How to style Scandinavian menswear
The most common styles of Scandinavian menswear fall under these combinations. Follow these rules and you’ll look like you effortlessly rolled off the chic streets of Stockholm.
- Dark overcoats with denim or trousers
- Dark suits with leather shoes
- Casual-wear with sneakers
- Knitwear & layering
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If you need more help, be sure to hit our guide on how to dress like a Scandinavian to look effortlessly polished. But before then, you’ll need to know which brands stock clean cut Scandinavian clothing so you can stock up. Here are a few of our favourite Scandinavian menswear brands currently making waves around the world.
1/12Eton
Founded in 1928, Eton has grown from the small village Ganghester in Sweden, where founder Annie Petterson would sew for her friends and neighbours, into a global brand, best known for their incredible shirts. The company mantra is "made to be remembered" and this most definitely rings true when looking at their impeccable garments. Eton pairs a range of unique, high-quality fabrics with modern cuts and designs to help men look their sharpest.
2/12RAINS
Since 2012, RAINS has been making wet weather gear for the world. Their ethos? That highly functional wet weather clothing should not come at the compromise of good design and sleek looks. All of their products feature a distinct fabric that is a blend of polyester and polyurethane which in combination makes all of their products completely waterproof without sacrificing style.
3/12Tiger of Sweden
Founded in 1903, Tiger of Sweden is a traditional menswear brand. Their designs are attractive and clean cut, aimed at younger professionals who are style-conscious. A focus of the brand is the sourcing of high-quality materials that will age well, and the result is minimalist yet elegant clothing that’ll elevate any wardrobe.
4/12Our Legacy
Our Legacy started out in 2005 and originally only made graphic t-shirts, however, since then the company has evolved to offer a full line of cool menswear. Our Legacy has gained quite a following for their ability to put a modern twist on high-quality fabrics and traditional styles, and we highly recommend you check out their appealing clothes collection immediately.
5/12Nudie Jeans
Nudie Jeans has made waves in the denim world, not only with their ultra-stylish, quality jeans but with their alternative approach to the world of denim. All of Nudie’s jeans are made with 100% organic cotton with no treatment or washes. The brand recommends a 6-month 'break-in' period and will offer free repairs for any damage caused to your beloved denim.
6/12Wood Wood
Based in Copenhagen, Wood Wood is a contemporary fashion and lifestyle brand founded in 2002. Wood Wood’s clothing is typified by sleek silhouettes and pared-back shades, which in turn puts the label's fine detailing centre stage. Their clothing also often features bold graphic patterns and clever styles influenced by pop culture and art. One of the coolest Scandinavian brands, Wood Wood’s stylish clothing should be added to every man’s wardrobe.
7/12NN07
NN07 is a Danish label that was founded in Copenhagen in 2007. They describe themselves as an ‘open-minded brand with no borders' and are dedicated to producing garments with perfect fits, unique craftsmanship, and attention to every detail. NN07’s clothing is built to last and their designs will look fresh for years to come.
8/12Arket
At Arket's core is their passion for long-lasting design. Not only are their designs timeless but they put significant effort into sourcing sustainable materials and high-quality manufacturing processes. If you're looking for clothing that will last a lifetime and is timeless enough to look good for decades to come, look no further than Arket.
9/12Norse Projects
Started in Copenhagen, Denmark, Norse Projects seamlessly blends traditional workwear, streetwear, and high end fashion. As with most Scandinavian brands their clothing is minimalist with an emphasis on quality and timelessness. Their blend of blue collar and corporate workwear styles creates a unique, rugged-esque look, that’ll give you an elevated casual look.
10/12Fjallraven
Originally famous for their Kånken bag, Fjallraven makes a selection of durable, timeless, and progressive outdoor clothing and equipment. It was originally started by a young boy who created a bag to carry his equipment into the mountains back in 1950, but since then the brand has evolved to offer clothing in their lineup as well as other accessories. If you’re the adventurous type - camping, hiking, etc. - Fjallraven will keep you comfortable in chic Scandinavian style.
11/12A Day's March
Founded in Stockholm, Sweden in 2014, A Day’s March makes high-quality basics for men at an affordable price. They strive for excellence in everything they do from t-shirts to sneakers. Defined by their exquisite details - that makes them one of the best Scandinavian brands available - basics from A Day’s March are the staples you need in your closet.
12/12J Lindberg
Johan Lindeberg was originally the marketing director at Diesel. After his own ideas were continually repressed, he left the company and started his own label; which is now regarded as one of the coolest Scandinavian brands. J Lindeberg offers a range of elevated sport clothing that perfectly aligns with the current trend of athleisure, and will give you a casual chic look.
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