Every Scandi brand you need on your radar, according to fashion insiders
While the fashion weeks hosted in New York, London, Milan and Paris reign supreme as the largest and most coveted in the world, Copenhagen's offering - which is well underway right now, albeit digitally - continues to climb the ranks as the event for forecasting trends.
It's no surprise, really. We've long been turning to the Scandi-cool crowd for wardrobe, interior and even skincare inspiration. Synonymous with minimalism, Scandinavia is a region that nails the delicate balance between delicate and nonchalant, constructing wardrobes from multi-dimensional fabrics, mood-boosting colours and enduring prints. From Stockholm to Copenhagen, Scandi women are known for their timeless, paired-back and endlessly chic approach to dressing that fashion lovers the world over are desperate to emulate.
So how to do exactly that? The answer is simple: invest in a few key pieces from the best Scandi fashion brands on the block - of which Ganni isn't the only one worth knowing.
Sure, there's H&M (who showcased its latest biannual Studio collection yesterday afternoon in a bid to prove the most sought-after new season collections aren't all luxury), and Danish mega-brand Ganni - as founded by husband and wife duo Nicolaj and Ditte Reffstrup and run from their Copenhagen atelier. But there's a whole plethora of other Scandinavian fashion houses worth adding to your hit list.
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Filippa K and Stine Goya lead the way in stalwart wardrobe staples crafted from sustainable fabrics while Mads Norgaard goes against the fast fashion grain to release pieces with timeless appeal.
Rotate Birger Christensen - as stocked at Net-A-Porter and Farfetch - specialises in statement evening dresses and Cecilie Bahnsen creates irresistibly textured seersucker dresses that have romanced the entire fashion crowd over the past few seasons. There's also By Malene Birger, a Danish fashion brand that opts for a modern, relaxed and versatile aesthetic - excelling in the knitwear games in particular. For fans of a looser silhouette and paired-back print, they're our go-to for turtleneck sweaters, silk blouses and lace-adorned midi dresses.
1. Ganni
Founded by husband and wife duo Nicolaj and Ditte Reffstrup in Copenhagen, Ganni screams easy to wear and effortless. A firm favourite among influencers and editors alike, Ganni nails everything from silk dresses to biker jackets, knitwear and chunky boots. When we grow up we want to be a #GanniGirl.
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2. Rotate Birger Christensen
Also based in Copenhagen is Rotate Birger Christensen. Think puffed sleeves, bright colours and statement evening dresses with a twist. It was the mission of designers Jeanette Friis Madsen and Thora Valdimars to create pieces that filled the gaps in their own wardrobes - and the results are quite something.
Our Pick:
ROTATE BIRGER CHRISTENSEN Irina Jacquard Dress, £345, Net-A-Porter
Save money on your shop with these Net-A-Porter discount codes.
3. By Malene Birger
Growing in popularity of late, Danish fashion house By Malene Birger opts for a modern, relaxed and versatile aesthetic - excelling in the knitwear games in particular. For fans of a loose silhouette and paired-back print, they're our go-to for turtleneck sweaters, silk blouses and lace-adorned midi dresses.
Our Pick:
Yasmia Cotton-Blend Jacquard Sweater, £195, Net-A-Porter
Save money on your shop with these Net-A-Porter discount codes.
4. Cecilie Bahnsen
Have you ever seen a midi dress more beautiful in all your life? Us neither. Despite her feminine, frilly and textures designs not traditionally being synymous with Scandi style, Cecilie Bahnsen's seersucker midi dresses have become firm favourites in the wardrobes of every fashion insider across Europe. Her creations are irresistably modern, chic and romantic - and we can't get enough.
Our Pick:
Cecilie Bahnsen Chloe Ruffled Cotton-Blend Poplin Dress, £885, Matches Fashion
5. Baum und Pferdgarten
Danish brand Baum und Pferdgarten are all about bold patterns, textures and colours - where no print clash is out of bounds. They ship to the UK and are stocked at The Outnet, Farfetch and Harvey Nichols.
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6. Gestuz
Designed with the modern woman in mind, Gestuz are your go-to for tailored trousers, blazers and smart pieces that look as effortless as they feel. They've recently ventured into the loungewear arena, too - who hasn't?! - and their tracksuits are to die for. One in every colour, please.
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7. Stina Goya
As founded in 2006, Stine Goya's eponymous label has become a must-have in any refined wardrobe over the past decade. Silhouettes are modern, colours are bright and patterns and aplenty. You can pick up Stine Goya at Net-A-Porter and Yoox in the UK, or on their own-brand website.
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8. BRØGGER
Up-and-coming fashion house Brøgger produces modern, cosmopolitan and timeless collections inspired by its founders' Danish roots. Outerwear is at the brand's heart (think statement blazers and winter coats), but they also create beautiful dresses, tops and knitwear suitable for every season.
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9. H&M Studio
Created by an in-house design team at the brand's Stockholm atelier, the much-loved 'Studio' collections are H&M's most fashion-forward, limited edition offerings which are unveiled biannually. Designed to be cherished forever, the spring/summer 2021 collection has been crafted predominantly from sustainably-sourced materials, and sees tassels and fringing aplenty as clever contemporary design details decorate and elevate classic shapes and timeless staples. It'll be available to shop online from February 18th. Circle the dates in your calendars and limber up, people.
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10. Filippa K
Established in 1993 in Stockholm by Filippa Knutsson and Patrik Kihlborg, Filippa K breeds simplicity. Expect ageless basics of exceptional quality from sweatshirts to activewear and knitwear.
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11. Samsøe & Samsøe
Founded by two brothers in 1993, Samsøe & Samsøe started as a jewellery brand exclusively. It wasn't until 2000 when they moved into clothing and footwear (thank goodness they did); they now stock accessible, simple clothing which boasts a subtle nod to the founders' Scandinavian heritage. You can shop the brand at Selfridges.
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12. Munthe
While their sweatsuits are made from 100% organic cotton that feels so soft and cozy against your skin, their outerwear is bold and their summer dresses make us want to move somewhere much less grey. Florals and checks are both commonplace in their most recent collections.
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