Scandi Style

As most things do it all started with a TV programme. The Killing hit our screens and we were captivated, not only with the dark storylines but also with Sarah Lund in all her chunky knitted glory. Now that the temperature has dropped and Christmas is just around the corner, what better time to embrace our love for Scandinavian style?

With British winters getting harsher, it’s little wonder that we have begun to look to our Scandinavian cousins for guidance on how to dress for the colder weather. They favour functional clothing that has an understated whisper of style and is, above all else, warm. Key elements to this look are oversized knitted jumpers, boots ready for stomping over a morning frost and plenty of layers. This look is perfect for a brisk winter walk or cosy Sunday roasts in the local pub.

But it is not just our wardrobes that are feeling the influence of Scandinavia. What began with Sarah Lund has now opened the floodgates and our Netflix accounts are full of Scandi inspired drama. America tried to recreate the moody, atmospheric, understated tone of The Killing with its own remake but it lacked in original Scandi charm. The Brits tried their own take on the genre with The Tunnel and The Missing, for those who are not a fan of subtitles, but for real authenticity we’d urge you to try the real thing.

Perhaps one of the biggest ways in which we have been inspired by the northern Europe region is in our homes. Scandinavia has been inspiring interiors ever since Ikea hit our shores in 1987. The modern aesthetic combined with simplicity and the eco-friendly ethos of the company has made the Swedish store the first port of call for home owners. Type “Scandinavian Style” into Pinterest and you will be bombarded by pin, after pin of sharp modern lines, heavy wood, white walls and cosy soft furnishings.

Scandinavia has invaded our homes, our wardrobes and our TV screens; surely it is only a matter of time before they invade the foodie scene too?  Meatballs anyone?

By Samantha Vandersteen