How to nail Scandi maximalism

From joyful colours to vivacious prints, here’s your guide to Scandi style’s maximalist era
image Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
words Sophie Lou Wilson
Scandinavian fashion is famous for championing a chic and understated aesthetic. Cotton shirts, roomy coats, well-fitting denim and sleek midi dresses all tend to rest in the popular imagination when Scandi style is mentioned. That said, Scandinavian street style is anything but prescriptive. And there's a wave of designers and influencers – including cult faves Ganni and Stine Goya – channelling a more maximalist look to prove it.
You only have to look at last year’s Copenhagen Fashion Week to see how neon brights and chaotic layering have made their way onto the Scandi streets. Creating a capsule wardrobe that’s made to last is still key. Copenhagen is the first city to introduce mandatory sustainability requirements that brands must meet in order to have a spot on the official fashion week schedule, a rule that will come into place later this month.
However, the more maximalist aesthetic dares to question the monopoly of minimalist design when it comes to curating a long-lasting, versatile wardrobe. What if you’re more into pink than plain suits? Or you prefer mixing colours to monochrome? The Scandi embrace of maximalism is part of a wider trend for expressing creativity and individuality through fashion. Rather than following trends, it centres fun and self-expression. A branch of the weird girl aesthetic and dopamine dressing trends, Scandi maximalism taps into a desire for colourful experimentation and statement pieces that are made to last.
From statement coats to vibrant knits, here’s how to nail the new frontier of Scandi maximalism this season.
GET YOUR GREENS
Checkerboards are a classic that’s here to stay. Fun, sustainable and durable, these bags are handmade in Mexico using recycled plastic. They are developed by skilled weavers in the Oaxaca region, within a fair-trade environment.
PEACHY KEEN
Short and sweet, but with a touch of attitude, the Sienna cable cardigan brings any outfit to life. With a unique abstract cable featured on the front, back and sleeve, this style comes in a super soft mid weight yarn in an all over fisherman’s rib.
DEEP PURPLE
Accessory first, sunglasses second. These standout shades are inspired by the Matrix. Fashionable, but functional, they have high UV protection that fits all seasons, day and night and in our out.
PRE LOVED
This unisex vintage Ralph Lauren shirt is a styling staple. Made from 100% cotton, wear it open or closed to channel effortless Scandi maximalism.
BLUEBELL FIELDS
The Tate skirt is a tiered midi skirt featuring a fitted waistband and frill detailing. The black, blue and cream makes it a true maximalist hero piece.
SUNSET HUES
In a pop of clashing cherry red, mustard and purple, brought together in a variegated stripe, this cosy roll neck is in a relaxed fit with a wider sleeve nodding to the ‘70s but kept modern with its shorter length and side split detail.
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