It might be presumptuous to state the following, but I'm convinced that most people have one "unimportant" thing that takes up an immeasurable part of their mental focus. For some, it could be a culturally relevant film that didn't get its due at the Oscars or a conversation they heard on an exciting podcast. However, for the fashion set, it always comes back to clothing. Whether we like to admit it or not, we spend so much of our time obsessing over the newest designers, scouring the runway for trends, and lambasting ourselves for never buying that one 'It' item.
But possibly the most time-consuming topic for many of us is choosing what to wear. Even as an editor, I'm not immune to falling into an intense preoccupation with how to transition my wardrobe into spring. And I've found that it's even more amplified by the fact I can't stop reminiscing about my recent time spent in Copenhagen. The sheer amount of inspiration from the Scandinavian style set that I wish I had taken photos of still haunts me.
So to help assuage my mental preoccupations (and maybe yours, too), I researched 12 simple spring outfit ideas from women across the region. Plus, I shopped out the key pieces to re-create the looks and shared some nuggets of styling wisdom I learned from their overall approach to style while travelling there. Even if you don't reside in a Scandinavian country, these outfit ideas are worth the space in your mind (and on your camera roll).
1. Sunglasses + Trench Coat + Denim Jacket + Tank + Jeans + Clogs
Style Notes: The Scandi style set knows a thing or two about layering, so when you're trying to decide what to wear for those chilly spring days, you'll want to turn to the experts. Don't be afraid to layer lightweight outwear (e.g., a trench coat over a denim jacket, tank top, and jeans), as it's a simple way to look cool without being cold.
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I love these colourful frames.
What's more classic than a trench coat?
Indigo denim is all the rage right now.
2. Tank Top + Straight-Leg Jeans + Slingback Heels
Style Notes: Simplicity is a cornerstone of Scandi style, so keeping it minimal is a must when tapping this community for inspiration. Start by taking your favourite tank and jeans and adding a pair of slingback heels and a sleek shoulder bag for an effortlessly chic outfit.
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Tank tops are great for layering underneath chunky knit jumpers, or wearing on their in the warmer months.
There's a reason why Other Stories is hailed for their offering of jeans.
A pair of black pointed-toe slingback heels will never go amiss in your footwear collection.
3. Button-Up + Trousers + Boots + Woven Leather Bag + Sunglasses
Style Notes: Want to look put together without having to put in a lot of effort? There's a simple solution: Opt for a monochrome ensemble. Try pairing a brown button-down with matching trousers, a contrasting woven leather bag, and boots for a look that will have the compliments crawling in.
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I love the mocha-hue of this STAUD twill shirt.
Pair with a co-ordinating brown shirt and glossy leather boots, or easily style with a relaxed-fit T-shirt and sneakers.
From the signature weave to the knotted handle, what more could you want from a shoulder bag?
4. Double Denim + Knit Jumper + Colourful Sneakers + Sunglasses
Style Notes: Don't shy away from double denim. Pair your denim ensemble with a cosy knit jumper, a pair of colourful Adidas trainers and chic cat-eye sunglasses this spring, just like Amaka.
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Hot off the runway, icy blue is set to be the colour of spring.
These jeans look so much more expensive than they are!
Colourful Adidas trainers are everywhere at the minute - and it looks like they're not going anywhere anytime soon.
5. Shirt + Cardigan + Cream Trousers + Trainers + Cross-Body Bag
Style Notes: Layering is key for the unpredictable transitional weather in spring. If you need a place to start, we recommend layering a timeless white shirt underneath a cardigan with a pair of with cream trousers and trainers (like the look above).
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A white shirt is worth the investment.
A timeless knit.
Nail smart-casual attire by pairing these ivory tailored trousers with your go-to sneakers.
6. Off-The-Shoulder Jumper + Midi Skirt + Pointed-Toe Flats
Style Notes: Navigating how to dress for spring weather can be tricky, but if you're trying to strike a balance, look no further than the outfit above. Pairing an off-the-shoulder sweater with a midi skirt, pointed-toe flats and statement hoops will allow you to tackle transitional temperatures tactfully.
Shop the Look:
They grey marl is so chic.
And, of course, pair with this knitted midi skirt.
From styling with skirts to wide-leg jeans, glossy patent flats are a yes from me.
7. Leather Blazer + Tank Top + Denim Skirt + Kitten Heels
Style Notes: Not all spring trends are worth adopting, but denim skirts are worthwhile in the minds of the Scandinavian set. There's no shortage of people wearing them in various ways on the streets of Copenhagen and Oslo. But if you need inspiration on how to style this skirt closer to home, pair it with a leather jacket, tank top, kitten heels, and a quilted mini bag.
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Burgundy is a great alternative to a typical black leather biker jacket.
This number will easily transition into the summer months too.
I adore the mismatch geometric appliqués.
8. Colourful Patterned Jumper + Maxi Skirt + Sneakers + Top Handle Bag
Style Notes: Not only is minimalism a crucial part of embracing a more Scandinvian-inspired wardrobe, but sustainability is too. It's all about finding ways to wear seasonally pegged pieces year-round—e.g., choosing to style a chunky knit with a maxi skirt, and Stan Smith sneakers in the spring. After all, if you're going to buy something, why not wear it as much as possible?
Shop the Look:
I approve of any Ganni knitwear styles.
The perfect day-to-night skirt.
This Adidas silhouette is making a comeback for 2024.
9. Shoulder Bag + Moto Jacket + Strapless White Dress + Sandals
Style Notes: Another example of how the Scandi set has mastered mixing pieces from different seasons is the look above. You wouldn't guess such an essential fall piece like a leather moto jacket would look so good with a spring-ready white maxi dress, and yet, it does.
Shop the Look:
The buttery finish and cropped cut make this a standout jacket.
The double-breasted button embellishments add an extra flare to a minimalist design.
If you're on the hunt for an affordable black shoulder bag, look no further.
10. Long Sleeve T-Shirt + Straight-Leg Jeans + Leather Jacket + Boots + Sunglasses
Style Notes: You've scrolled this far and might be thinking that all Scandi fashion girls stick to neutrals, but that's far from true. Colour isn't something to circumvent; instead, this fashion set intentionally incorporates tinted pieces into their wardrobes. For example, a burgundy leather jacket can be styled with everyday staples like a T-shirt, jeans, and boots to subtly inject colour into your closet.
Shop the Look:
A pair of black jeans will complete your capsule wardrobe, and this slim-straight pair from Weekday are a great option.
A quality pair of leather ankle boots will last you season after season.
I know so many people who have a pair of Loewe sunglasses on their wish list.
11. Classic T-Shirt + Linen Trousers + Ballet Flats + Shoulder Bag + Sunglasses
Style Notes: Can't see yourself embracing colour this spring? That's fine too. Simply take a cue from the look above and use luxurious textiles (e.g., linen) and colour-blocking to create the same visual interest.
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Made from organic cotton, this classic relaxed-fit T-shirt is a staple.
Lightweight, breathable and practical, linen trousers are a must-have for the spring/summer months.
I love a ballet flat with a dainty buckle ankle strap.
12. White Dress + Bag + Pumps
Style Notes: Hopefully by now, you've found a few outfit ideas that you're ready to re-create for spring. But should you still find that you're stressed about what to wear, then please screenshot the look above for later. You really can never go wrong with throwing on a cute white dress (of any kind) with pumps and a beautiful bag and heading out into the world. It's a look worth the space on your iCloud and in your closet.
Shop the look:
Floral appliqués are in, people.
A pair of pumps that will go with any outfit.
This style can also be worn as a cross-body.
This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Promo image: @maryljean
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