Nordic Neighbours

I am here for the suede jackets, burgundy leather and sheer skirts this winter, but there is plenty of time for all of that, we have literally just hit October, and I don’t know about you but when I am readying myself for tasks such as the school run, dog walk or working from home I am not reaching for a leather midi skirt and slingbacks, while I am an advocate for not saving your clothes for ‘best’ I am a pragmatist, and torrential rail and new season suede don’t mix. 

So what’s the alternative? waders for outdoor, pyjamas for in? Let’s not give up that easily. There is a middle ground, something that says fashion but isn’t gym gear, because gym gear is excellent for its purpose and I am a big fan of a great legging, but I want a differentiation between casual comfy and work-out, my main stipulation is not having my bottom covered only by mere millimetres of lycra. 

Ever inspired by our Nordic neighbours, geographically, not literally, although my neighbours are lovely, its the Danes, Dutch and Swedes I take sartorial notes from, they deal with inclement weather so stylishly, with rule number 1 being dress to expect terrible weather and therefor never getting caught out with unsuitable clothing. Their secret weapon? Layers, once you have nailed great layering your casual style will never be the same again, its the way to stay warm, wear colour, add texture and be comfortable all in one go.

Casual Scandi style always has elements of sporty, hygge (meaning cozy) and fun, lets start from the feet up, the Scandinavians know the merits of a flat shoe, from a Birkenstock Boston clog (before you ask they didn’t go out of fashion, and nor should they) a great trainer, bright or neutral you decide, a chunky flat boot, and for fairer weather an interesting flat (think studded slip on, loafer or quirky mule) 

Separates lend themselves to layering far better than a dress or a jumpsuit, plus the outfit combinations with separates are endless, remember, layering requires you to leave a little bit of room so upsize your outerwear slightly, this isn’t about wearing everything huge, but playing with proportion, and remembering to add elements that contradict, like knitwear with a collar. Then texture,  think fleece, borg, nylon, leather, knit, layered over softer cottons, rayons and cashmeres, and make friends with outerwear, from gilets to windbreakers and trench coats to overcoats. 

So where to look? Start at M&S, the Good Move collection is great, H&M do the good value windbreakers, Free People for over the head jackets and gilets, Whistles, Arket and Gap for knitwear and Cos for trousers that are like a smart jogger, while these pieces are practical, unless your climbing Snowdon a full outdoor look isn’t necessary, break it up, add a denim shirt or jeans or switch out your trainers for loafers and chunky socks. 

Be winter weather ready, Nordic Style.