NOV 21, 2024 | FEATURES | By Grace Gassel
Hi everyone! It has been a while since my last column back in Oct. Since then, the weather in Copenhagen has changed quite drastically. Crisp fall breezes and fiery-colored leaves have been replaced by freezing gusts of wind, constant rain, heavy gray clouds and barren trees. Not to mention, the sun rises at eight in the morning and sets at 3:45 p.m.! While this weather transition has been stark, Copenhageners nevertheless continue to serve major looks — dressing both practically and impractically for the season! In this week’s article, I will break down the recipe for a Scandinavian winter outfit.
There are few differences by age and gender in Copenhageners’ winter style, unlike in the summer and fall. The winter uniform begins with outerwear. A long woolen coat is the most common layer of choice. Typically ankle-length and oversized, the coats tend to swallow the wearer. This fit is more common among female-presenting individuals. Male-presenting individuals tend to sport more tailored overcoats. As for color, the Danes rarely stray from beige tones, deep blues, army greens and other natural colors.
On the arm of a wool-coat-wearing Dane is likely a crossbody bag or tote — these are sported year-round. The materials of these purses vary. In the winter months, I have noticed more leather bags over canvas or cotton material, a logical adjustment to a more durable material for the rain and wind. Still is it rare to spot a backpack in public.
Winter is full-on leather shoe season! Wooohooo! Sandals are a faint memory as boots and loafers of all shades of leather and metal adornment decorate the streets instead. Even sneakers, despite their reign of terror all year round, have become slightly less common to spot. The Danes adore a square-toed boot and a fun sole — the chunkier, the better! Boots with metal embellishments are on trend -– the small glinting metal details add spice and a fun twist to a standard outfit.
Underneath the coat, bag and boots, lies more layering! Woolen sweaters of traditional Scandinavian patterns are a common underlayer of choice. Baggy slacks and jeans still reign.
The most iconic of this uniform befalls the Scandinavian scarf/balaclava look. A large scarf is wrapped around the wearer’s head. Usually paired with chic sunglasses, this accessory combo is iconic to Scandinavia and I have seen it everywhere! A balaclava is reminiscent of a sock with a hole cut for a face, yet somehow it’s cute. Stripes and bright colors are the frequent aesthetic of these accessories.
The pictures included highlight a few of my favorite outfits I have spotted in late October and November thus far and can inspire your next look! Now you can build a warm, winter Scandinavian outfit to brave the upcoming Colorado December. Until next time!
