If there's one aesthetic I'm looking to emulate this autumn, it's Scandi style. As the street style pictures from Copenhagen Fashion Week confirmed, these influential dressers are well versed in how to balance polished elegance with effortless cool, and throw in a few playful curveballs to keep their looks feeling fresh, too. So, as the temperatures drop and the leaves begin to turn, what better source of inspiration could we turn to for autumnal fashion?
Personally, I'll be leaning into their perfectly crafted minimalist looks, pairing crisp button down shirts with straight leg jeans and maxi skirts with oversized jumpers. It's also the Scandi fashion set we have to thank for the popularity of loafers and ballet pumps as the shoes of the season, and the local trendsetters have plenty of inspiration for how to style the classic footwear.
Like us Brits, the Scandinavians are familiar with having to deal with temperamental weather, and they've truly mastered the art of layering. From blazers over cardigans to trench coats over turtlenecks, these outfits demonstrate the importance of styling in turning a mix of pieces into a chic, cohesive look.
However daunting transitional dressing might seem, these Scandi influencers prove that with just a few staples, you can create a timeless yet contemporary wardrobe that will see you through the season. Scroll on to see our pick of the best outfit formulas to get you started.
1. Button Down Shirt + Jeans + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: The combination of blue button down and jeans nails the elevated casual aesthetic, while the pop of silver adds a touch of Scandi playfulness.
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A pinstripe shirt always looks polished.
The most versatile style of jeans you can own.
Ballet pumps will be everywhere this season, but this silver pair will definitely stand out.
When you're styling a minimal outfit, a statement bag is always a cool touch.
2. Maxi Skirt + Jumper + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Jeanette's outfit is the perfect example of how to style maxi skirts for autumn. A cosy jumper layered on top and flats or boots for footwear and you have a uniform to turn to all season.
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This has the perfect silhouette for pairing with a maxi skirt.
I'd definitely use this in the summer months, too.
Who can resist a touch of sparkle?
I love the softness of a crescent moon-shaped purse.
3. Leather Jacket + Jumper + Black Jeans
Style Notes: The Scandi style set know autumn dressing is all about mixing textures, and this combo of a soft cable knit jumper with a leather jacket is a brilliant example.
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I love the texture of this leather biker, and the boxy shape gives it an elevated feel.
A cable-knit is a must-have classic.
After years of searching, this AGOLDE style has become my favourite pair of jeans.
Don't be scared to mix metal colours.
4. Knit Cardigan + Skirt + Mary-Jane Flats
Style Notes: A knit cardigan paired with a sleek midi skirt and Mary-Jane flats creates a cosy yet polished look. And yes, ok, Monikh herself isn't Scandinavian, but we know her outfit formular would 100% get the approval of the Scandi fashion set.
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Such a sleek way to bring in the cosier season.
And paired with a skirt in the same colour, the allure just gets better.
Keep the monochrome theme going with these elegant flats.
The perfect finishing touch.
5. Blazer + Jumper + Jeans + Loafers
Style Notes: A masterclass in layering from Anouk Yve—bonus points for the extra jumper thrown over the shoulders, providing a spare layer to deal with the unpredictable autumn weather.
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The blazer gives the look the right amount of structure.
Although it's a warmer tone than grey, greige really works with this outfit.
The cropped cut will let your footwear shine.
A minimalist's dream shoe.
6. Boucle Jacket + White Tee + Wide Leg Jeans
Style Notes: Ticking off two trends in one—wide leg jeans and a classic boucle jacket. Opt for one in a brighter hue like Karo Dall to bring more colour into the greyest autumn days or choose one with strands of colour woven in.
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Elle Woods would approve.
One of the best white t-shirts on the high street.
This is inspiring some real Y2K nostalgia.
A far cry from your grandmother's pearls.
7. Pinstripe Suit + Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: Polished enough for work, stylish enough for a date.
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This pinstripe blazer would add a refined touch to so many looks.
Paired with the blazer, this all looks so much more expensive than it is.
This tank is oh-so-versatile.
You can't go wrong with a strappy pair of heels. I think brown or black would work with this outfit.
8. Slip Skirt + Jumper + Loafers
Style Notes: This look is so chic it's convincing me to brave an all-white ensemble.
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Slinky, sleek perfection.
The cable-knit design adds a touch of contrast when styled with the classic silk skirt.
These have a fun retro feel.
Buttery cream leather? I'm sold.
9. Double Denim + Court Heels
Style Notes: Scandi women always make double denim look effortlessly cool.
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This is the kind of easy shirt I can see myself reaching for time and time again.
Meticulously crafted blue jeans from an editor-loved brand.
These look so much more expensive than their actual price.
Sculptural and understated.
10. Cardigan + Leather Blazer + Corduroy Trousers
Style Notes: I love the mix of textures and the seasonally appropriate brown tones. I love how Mona sharpened a cosy look with the help of a leather jacket.
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Sophisticated seventies cool.
The softest tank on the market.
The rich, dark navy tone makes it look extra cosy.
An autumnal alternative to the typical black blazer.
11. JEANS + JUMPER + WOOL COAT + CONVERSE
Style Notes: A mix of black and grey tones keeps thing casual yet stylish, and as Cassandra Klatzkow is proving, a classic pair of Converse trainers never go out of style.
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A great entry into the wide-leg jean game.
Impossibly soft.
This is such a timeless coat style.
The trainer that's always in fashion.
This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
