It's no secret that Scandi girls know a thing or two about how to look cool. Their penchant for colour and a laid-back aesthetic makes for one hell of a chic recipe. Everything from their clothes to their skincare oozes effortless, and I want in. In fact, I've been scribbling notes on how to replicate Scandi-girl style for years, but it seems as though things are easier observed than done. When it comes to nailing Scandi fashion, I have to admit defeat.
What I have learned, however, is that a key part of any Scandi-girl look is a no-fuss, low-maintenance hairstyle—the kind that looks like you just sort of chucked it up and it just fell that way. And whilst I'm all too aware that effortless-looking hairstyles are some of the most difficult to execute, it seems that Scandi girls have struck the perfect balance between chicness and ease. And I've finally cracked it. Though my sartorial skills are lacking, I've got the Scandi-girl hair look down to a fine art, and it's changed my life.
Forget spending hours clutching a curling tong. Nowadays, I wake up, twist up my lengths, and I'm good to go in a matter of seconds. My current hair looks are so good (if I may say so myself) that I'm convinced everyone has something to learn from the Scandi way. So whether you consider yourself a lazy girl when it comes to hair or simply find yourself stretched for time on the daily, keep scrolling for the eight Scandi-girl hairstyles that will change the game. And I promise they won't take any longer than five minutes.
1. Claw Twist
If you have mid-length hair, a claw clip couldn't be easier to use. Part hair in the middle and use the clip to scrape it back and secure it at the nape of the neck. Pull some strands out at the front for a super laid-back look.
My favourite style note when it comes to claw clips? Instead of reaching for hairbands, secure buns and twists with a pretty claw at the back.
Those with long hair don't have to sit out on the claw-clip trend. Gather your hair at the back, twist it up and snake the lengths back down into the clip—it's that easy.
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This chunky claw clip is strong enough to hold longer, thicker styles.
2. Low Bun
When your curls need a slurp of extra nourishment, apply an oil treatment or hydrating mask, slick lengths back into a low bun and secure.
On particularly windy days, always pack a hairband in your bag so that you can pull your hair back into a twisted low bun like this one.
Proving that a low bun works for every occasion, a slicked-back knot makes for the ultimate office-appropriate hairstyle.
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Use this rich hair oil to slick down flyaways and keep your low bun looking polished.
3. Slide Clips
Amplify your usual down 'do by adding a row of jazzy clips to just one side.
A chic slide clip that acts as a pretty piece of hair jewellery and keeps your hair off your face? Count me in.
Slide clips in clashing colours look great on bright, neon or pastel tones.
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There isn't a single look that this Gucci hair clip can't elevate.
4. Ponytail Plait
The ponytail plait is a Scandi-girl classic, and for good reason. Just pull your hair back into a ponytail, secure with a band, plait the lengths and secure again for a pretty update on the classic pony.
Plaited ponytails look particularly great with balayage as they showcase the ribbons of blonde through the lengths.
A ponytail plait makes so much sense when you're on vacation and want to look chic while keeping cool.
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Blast some texturising spray into lengths before tying up your hair to give your ponytail plait a lived-in look.
5. Scarves
I love the idea of matching your silk hair scarf to your shirt. The scarf acts as a great way to disguise second or third-day roots.
Nothing says summer quite like a bandana-style headscarf and some big, retro shades.
No matter what your hair is doing underneath, a scarf adds instant elegance to the most simple of outfits—elevating this simple red knit and sunglasses combo to an ultra-chic look.
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This silk hair scarf from Pucci adds instant joy to a simple outfit.
6. Texture
Perhaps my favourite Scandi-girl hair trend is what I like to call the laissez-faire effect. Leave your hair well alone and embrace whatever wave, curl, texture or parting comes naturally.
If you have a natural wave to your hair, spritz in a salt spray and let nature run its course.
Curly girls, put the straighteners down. The Scandi way is all about embracing your natural curl pattern.
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Work this nourishing cream through lengths and allow hair to air dry—you'll be left with soft but defined waves.
7. Bubble Braid
Similar to the ponytail plait but so very different, the bubble braid hit the big time this year thanks to Scandi-girl love for the style. For a minimalistic approach, wear your bubble braid low at the nape of the neck.
Whilst clear bands can be used to create your bubble braid, statement black bands look just as great against blonde strands (as do blonde bands against brunette).
So simple yet so striking, a bubble braid works just as well with your summer dresses as it does with your autumn knits.
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This pack of mini elastics will last years, and they're perfect for a bubble braid.
8. Oversized Scrunchies
To add a fashion statement to your ponytail or bun, opt for an oversized scrunchie. Matching the colour of your scrunchie to your outfit will make this style look even more sophisticated.
If you want something a little more fun, add a flower-shaped scrunchie for the ultimate Scandi-girl hairstyle. I'm obsessed with this look for summer.
Metallics are always a good idea, and this silver scrunchie can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
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This oversized broderie scrunchie from Damson Madder is the quickest and easiest way to upgrade your hairstyle.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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