Eytys, photographed by Kristin-Lee Moolman and styled by Gabrielle Kannemyer
Oh, Scandinavia–the region that keeps on giving. Its nations have bestowed upon us delicious meatballs, ambiguous-to-assemble plywood furniture, and even LEGOs. More recently, however, young Scandinavian creatives have made major strides in fashion design, bringing their unique perspectives into the mainstream. Here are the 9 brands fueling our–and the rest of the world’s–resurgence in fashion Scandimania.
Acne Men’s SS16, Women’s Pre Fall 2016
The Icon: Acne Studios
The #1 name in Scandinavian luxury, Acne (an acronym for “Ambition to Create Novel Expression” to those still thinking otherwise) began as a collective for Stockholm’s creative set. Their top-notch raw denim opened the door into fashion design, soaring the brand to the top for men’s as well as women’s ready-to-wear.
By Malene Birger Pre Fall 2016
Royal Favourite: By Malene Birger
A graduate of Copenhagen’s Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, Malene Birger is the preferred brand of England’s very own regal family. Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton has been spotted more than once in the designer’s perfectly-tailored ensembles, leaving us royally impressed.
Soulland
Streetwear Specialist: Soulland
Melding the polished aesthetic of Danish design with street style’s grittier tendencies, Soulland prides itself in providing forward-thinking design without abandoning its region’s legacy. A 2013 capsule collection with Colette confirmed the label’s status as aficionados in menswear.
Eytys, photographed by Kristin-Lee Moolman and styled by Gabrielle Kannemyer
Rebel Rouser: Eytys
Focusing on accessories, Eytys provides just the right amount of edge with comfortable thick-soled sneakers and functional backpacks. The label goes above and beyond as tastemakers with “Eytys Selects”, a section on their website dedicated to providing a curated assortment of artist books, watches and more.
Odeur SS16 ‘Figure/Frame’
Unisex Visionary: Odeur
Move over, Kanye. Odeur is here to prove the rapper turned fashion designer isn’t the only one succeeding at functional and stylish unisex pieces. Strong silhouettes and flattering cuts have us thinking twice about whether or not matching couples is really a faux pas.
Samsøe & Samsøe
Danish Denizen: Samsøe & Samsøe
With everything from raincoats to swimwear, Samsøe & Samsøe has all fashion bases covered. The brand administers unmistakable Danish design into each item, leaving us non-Danes eternally grateful.
Weekday
The High Street Staple: Weekday
Mastering the basics, Weekday is your go-to for t-shirts with excellent drape that won’t break the bank. And because the brand is a sister company of Cheap Monday, it means their denim selection is out of this world.
Wood Wood SS16
Underground Sophisticate: Wood Wood
Inspired by the graffiti culture of their youth, Karl-Oskar Olsen and Brian SS Jensen integrate sportswear elements into high-end fashion geared towards sophisticated trendsetters. “Wood Wood is much more than a brand,” says Jensen. “We were raised with the desire to constantly evolve and we’ll keep on taking the brand even further by combining elements of underground and high-end into our very own aesthetic.”
Stine Goya SS16
Frock Enthusiast: Stine Goya
Girly, flirty and perfect for summer, Stine Goya’s patterned designs make sunny day dress-up a breeze. Just slip on one of her patterned frocks and prepare to be mistaken for an effortlessly cool Scandinavian chick.