Scandi Girls Are All About These 6 Minimalist Coat Trends This Winter
For the past couple of days, I've been planning my outfits for Copenhagen Fashion Week, mimicking the cool Danish girls who have that effortless style I can't seem to master. While I can't copy their secret sauce, I can steal their sartorial inspiration and adopt their approach to winter outerwear.
When it comes to coat trends, Scandinavians have practically mastered the art of minimalist dressing. Think sleek, timeless pieces that slot seamlessly into any wardrobe and stay relevant for years. Whether it’s a perfectly tailored leather trench or a cozy, oversize wool coat, these styles are built to last—both in quality and cool factor. Classic colors like deep neutrals, rich blacks, and soft browns are a signature of the Scandinavian aesthetic, making every piece feel effortlessly chic.
Below, scroll through and see all of the chic, minimalist coat trends the Scandi style set is wearing this winter. Trust me, these are already sitting in my cart in anticipation of the surge of cool-girl street style we'll see in just a few weeks' time.
Funnel-Neck Coats
Phoebe Philo's impact on trends can't be denied, even years after dominating the minds of industry insiders. Last fall, the British designer released several swaddled, incredibly chic high-neck coats under her namesake label, and naturally, fashion listened. The trend has picked up steam since and, of course, is beloved by all minimalist Scandis aiming to nail that effortless look.
Fur Coats
Living in the Nordics means mastering the art of dressing chic in subzero temps. Enter the fur coat: a staple for those who want to brave the chill without sacrificing style. Whether vintage or faux, it's the perfect way to wrap yourself in warmth while making a serious fashion statement.
Scarf Coats
In case you’ve been living under a rock, yes, we’re still basking in the era of the viral Toteme scarf coat. Each winter, the Scandinavian brand’s signature contrast-stitch silhouette dominates our feeds, and this season is no exception. After last year’s meteoric rise across TikTok, other brands have caught on, weaving their own chic yet functional scarf details into outerwear designs.
Structured Coats
Leather Coats
Leather coats are having a major moment, and frankly, we’re here for it. From sleek, buttery-soft trenches to slouchy, oversize silhouettes, these elegant pieces are a masterclass in cool outerwear. This season, the leather coat is no longer just for edgy nights out in all black—Scandis are opting to add neutral alts into their wardrobes instead of the traditional black options.
Collarless Coats
Just like last year's Lady Jacket trend, collarless coats are the new definition of understated elegance. With their clean lines and minimalist appeal, these coats offer a refined, polished look that feels both timeless and modern when layered over casual pieces like white T-shirts or simple jeans.
Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor whose work ranges from dissecting size inclusivity at fashion week to discussing how American Girl Doll meme accounts are the the answer to society's collective spiral. She's covered it all: Copenhagen Fashion Week, Roe v. Wade frontline protests, and the re-branding of jorts, or, jean shorts for the uninitiated. At Who What Wear, Ana crafts sharp, irreverent features that speak to a digital-first generation, bringing her signature wit and unapologetic tone to long-form fashion and beauty content. If it’s smart, snarky, and a little unexpected, you'll probably find her name on it.
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