9 Scandinavian Style Secrets and Closet Staples (Straight from Denmark!)

1. Exaggerated Contrasts: The Art of Mixing Hard and Soft

Keeping practicality in mind brings me to the first style secret: exaggerated contrasts. This is especially where you’ll notice how important the styling of wardrobe staples is. As I’ve mentioned before, it’s not uncommon to see Scandinavian people wearing tailoring pieces like a suit with chunky New Balance running shoes.

Contrast dressing is when you style pieces that are different in style. Picture some style directions as being more “soft” whereas others are more “hard.” If you style something from the soft category – let’s stick with the casual running shoes as a great example – with something from the hard category, like a sharp and well-cut suit or tailored trousers, that’s where the contrasts meet.

The common dress code of Scandinavia varies depending on where you are and what your style preferences are, but I think lots of us will agree that smart casual is very common here. Basically, keeping that balance between being well-dressed but also not too dressed up, which is what contrast dressing can really help you with.

2. Statement Trainers: Comfort Meets Style

I just mentioned New Balance running shoes as an example of a common functional piece that lots of Scandinavians will wear with their regular everyday clothes – not just for running, but just generally spending lots of time outdoors. Some people like to refer to these as “dad trainers,” and some will love them, others will hate them. They’re very bottom-heavy in an outfit if we look at the overall proportions, but personally, I love them.

It goes without saying that these are probably the most comfortable everyday shoes you’ll ever find, and they’ll really allow you to move freely during your day, which is of course the whole point here. But also, adding such a contrasting casual piece to whatever other sharper pieces you might be wearing is quite cool, if you ask me.

If statement trainers are not your thing, then think shoes like classic ballet flats or boots, maybe with a lower block heel or a kitten heel to still keep that element of comfort and practicality. I think many Danes would nod their heads to just whatever you’d be able to ride your bike in, which in many cases would never include a pair of sky-high stiletto heels. Anything that feels more authentic and relaxed.

3. Muted Colors: The Scandinavian Palette

When it comes to color, lots of Scandinavian people prefer muted colors rather than super bright ones. Again, there are of course exceptions to that rule, but neutrals really are dominating here. Think monochromes like gray, black, white, but also earthy tones like beige and brown.

Perhaps this could be because Scandinavian people are very influenced by principles and aesthetics of minimalism, which emphasizes functionality and understated elegance. The muted color palette is deeply rooted within the Scandinavian design legacy, which is all about craftsmanship, simplicity, and functionality.

Muted colors are also more visually calming for the eyes, so there’s a psychological sense connected to it all, especially if we talk hygge – the Danish term for coziness, which is a way of life all about creating a comfortable and contented atmosphere in everyday life.

Finally, it’s worth mentioning that muted and neutral colors are super versatile, whether for your wardrobe or interiors. They form the backbone of every color palette, they’re easy to mix and match, and there’s a sense of timelessness connected to these colors.

Having said that, I’ve definitely noticed a shift, especially in Danish fashion over the years. Things aren’t necessarily always as minimal and neutral as they perhaps once were. Adding a pop of color with a beanie, a pair of shoes, or just a bag is something people really enjoy these days, especially younger generations who aren’t afraid to play with colors.

4. Trench Coats: The Ultimate Versatile Layer

Trench coats are something you’ll find in most Scandinavian women’s wardrobes. The subtle elegance, practicality, versatility, and minimal aesthetic all explain why. Especially if you manage to find one in good quality that has a water-repellent surface, a piece like this can really carry you through different types of weather for many years to come.

I have one myself from Everlane which I’ve had now for about seven years, and I love that coat. My trench coat is slightly shorter than many of the super longline and boxy trench coats that have been dominating Scandinavian street style in recent years, but I think that’s all a matter of preference. They come in many different shapes and sizes.

5. Wide-Leg Trousers: Comfort and Elegance Combined

Moving on with that subtle and effortless elegance, you’ll find wide-leg trousers high on the list of staples in the Scandinavian woman’s wardrobe. Similar to what I said with the trench coat, a pair of wide-leg pants have an air of minimalism, timelessness, and versatility to them. And of course, they’re also super comfortable, which is always key to remember.

You can wear pants like these with anything from chunky sweaters and boots, and you can also style them up with a cute blouse and a pair of heels for a special occasion too. And actually, this doesn’t have to be limited to tailoring – straight or wider-leg jeans in general are also quite the staple here. Anything that provides you with comfort and free movement while adding a subtle stylish touch to your outfits is key.

6. Knitwear: Cultural Heritage Meets Hygge

Now let’s talk about knitwear. Besides being the most hygge wardrobe staple you’ll ever find thanks to its soft and snuggly design, a knitted sweater has so much more meaning than that for Scandinavians. Knitwear generally has a long-standing tradition in Scandinavia, each country having their own designs, styles, and patterns. Norway, for example, is famous for their Norwegian sweaters.

You might even say that knitwear reflects cultural heritage for Scandinavians, and many traditional knitting techniques are passed down through generations. People love knitting here – it’s actually quite popular, also among younger generations, to take up knitting.

I’d always advise going for natural materials like wool, alpaca, or organic cotton, both because it’s biodegradable, but it’s also durable and a lot more comfortable and breathable against your skin. That goes for everything from coats to sweaters, pants, socks, and other accessories.

7. Organic Shaped Jewelry: Nature-Inspired Design

Scandinavian culture is deeply connected to nature, which will often be reflected in our design choices, whether for fashion or interiors. A way to add this nature-inspired connection into your looks is by going for organic-shaped jewelry, which kind of mimics the forms and textures that you would find in Scandinavian nature – like rocks or waves.

I also think the whole craftsmanship perspective is important to bring up here, because wearing a piece of jewelry like this is also a way to express individuality and step away from mass-produced conventional designs.

8. The No-Makeup Makeup Look: Less Is More

In Scandinavia, there’s generally less pressure to conform to sometimes unrealistic beauty standards that we see on social media, and also generally very heavy makeup looks. Lots of people prefer to invest more time and money into skincare, especially thanks to the ever-changing weather that we have here in the different seasons.

Again, there’s also the minimalism aspect to think about here – less is more, also when it comes to makeup. Of course, this is all a matter of preference. I do love makeup myself, so there’s nothing wrong with preferring a more full face. The no-makeup makeup look is simply quicker to apply, requires less maintenance, and is perfect for a busy or active everyday life too.

Some days it feels like we go through all four seasons within just a couple of hours – rain, sun, and snow all in one day! You could say that the no-makeup makeup look reflects a broader Scandinavian way of embracing minimalism and authenticity in all aspects of life.

9. Natural Materials: Sustainable and Timeless

This is woven throughout all the other secrets, but it deserves its own mention. Scandinavians prioritize natural, sustainable materials in everything from clothing to accessories. Think wool, linen, organic cotton, and leather. These materials are not only better for the environment, but they’re also more durable, more comfortable, and they age beautifully over time.

Scandinavian Style Secrets That Make Your Closet Feel Effortless

Scandinavian style feels easy because it runs on a few repeatable habits. You build a closet where pieces mix without drama, then you rely on silhouette and layering to keep outfits interesting.

Secrets that matter:

• You prioritize outerwear. A great coat or blazer makes a basic outfit look intentional.

• You invest in trousers and denim fits you trust. Those pieces carry most outfits.

• You keep accessories minimal, then you choose them carefully.

Common mistakes:

• You buy random basics in random shades, then nothing matches.

• You skip tailoring. Even cheap pieces look better when hems and waistlines fit you.

• You confuse minimal with plain, then your outfits feel boring.

Make it work for you:

• Choose a tight palette: two neutrals plus one accent color.

• Add texture instead of prints, like wool, denim, leather, and chunky knits.

• Layer smart: tee plus shirt plus blazer, or dress plus knit plus coat.

One simple test: you should build at least five outfits from any new item you buy. If you can’t, skip it. That rule keeps your closet cohesive and genuinely effortless.