What is Stockholm Style?
Stockholm style is Scandinavian minimalism with an urban edge. It's clean lines, neutral tones, and effortless layering that looks intentional without trying too hard. Think of it as "I bike to my architecture job in a wool coat"—functional, sharp, and endlessly versatile.
This aesthetic prioritizes relaxed fits, quality materials, and seasonal dressing with an emphasis on neutrals and cohesiveness. It's minimalism that actually works in real life, combining comfort with sophistication.
Top 3 Stockholm Style Brands
#1. COS
Why Shop Here: COS (Collection of Style) is the holy grail of accessible Scandinavian design. Part of the H&M group but positioned as their mature, minimalist sibling, COS delivers timeless pieces with impeccable cuts at high-street prices.
Best For: Modern minimalist essentials, architectural silhouettes, seasonal dressing
Must-Buy Items:
- Oversized structured coats
- Merino wool knits in neutral tones
- Relaxed tailored trousers
- Clean-line shirts and tees
Price Range: $$ (Mid-Range, Very Accessible)
Vibe: Minimalist, architectural, effortlessly urban
2. Filippa K
Why Shop Here: Founded in Stockholm in 1993, Filippa K is the original pioneer of Scandinavian minimalism. Known for clean design, impeccable fit, and commitment to sustainability, this brand delivers modern essentials for men who value style, simplicity, and quality over trends.
Best For: Timeless Swedish minimalism, sustainable fashion, premium basics
Must-Buy Items:
- Soft tailoring (blazers and trousers)
- Merino wool sweaters
- Minimal overshirts
- Classic bombers and outerwear
Price Range: $$$ (Premium)
Vibe: Stockholm heritage, refined minimalism, sustainable luxury
3. ARKET
Why Shop Here: Launched in 2017 by H&M Group, ARKET is a modern Nordic lifestyle brand rooted in 20th-century modernist principles. Designed in Stockholm, ARKET offers "style beyond trend" with quality materials and functional design at accessible prices.
Best For: Nordic essentials, modern-day uniform, accessible quality
Must-Buy Items:
- Organic cotton basics
- Structured wool coats
- Minimalist knitwear
- Home and lifestyle items
Price Range: $ (Mid-Range, Excellent Value)
Vibe: Modern Nordic, functional elegance, democratic design
4. Octobre Éditions
Why Shop Here: The menswear line from Parisian brand Sézane, Octobre Éditions brings French elegance to Scandinavian simplicity. Since 2016, they've created timeless pieces with impeccable cuts and premium European fabrics at surprisingly accessible prices.
Best For: French-Scandi fusion, versatile classics, quality at fair prices
Must-Buy Items:
- Linen and cotton shirts
- Double-pleated trousers
- Merino wool turtlenecks
- Classic outerwear
Price Range: $$$ (Premium)
Vibe: French sophistication meets Scandi minimalism
#5. NN07 (No Nationality 07)
Why Shop Here: This Copenhagen-based brand epitomizes Scandinavian cool with clean lines, attention to detail, and versatile designs. NN07 creates modern classics that work seamlessly together, making getting dressed effortless.
Best For: Scandinavian minimalism, quality basics, timeless wardrobe staples
Must-Buy Items:
- Signature knit sweaters
- Tailored wool trousers
- Minimalist outerwear
- Clean Oxford shirts
Price Range: $$$ (Premium)
Vibe: Copenhagen cool, refined simplicity, versatile elegance
Other Scandinavian Brands Worth Knowing
- ASKET - Swedish sustainability champions with permanent collections and 15-size options
- Norse Projects - Copenhagen brand blending Scandinavian minimalism with functional design
- Our Legacy - Stockholm-based with experimental fabrics and offbeat sophistication
- Weekday - Budget-friendly Scandi aesthetic from the H&M family
- Acne Studios - Premium Swedish brand with global fashion influence
- Wood Wood - Danish streetwear with Scandinavian sensibility
- Nudie Jeans - Sustainable denim with classic Scandinavian style
Scandinavian Brand Outfit Inspiration IRL
Shopping Tips
- Stick to the core palette - Black, gray, navy, beige, and powder blue are your foundation
- Focus on fit over trends - Stockholm style is about relaxed but structured silhouettes
- Layer with purpose - Think texture and depth, not bulk
- Invest in outerwear - A quality wool coat is the cornerstone of Stockholm style
- Choose natural fabrics - Wool, cotton, linen, and leather age beautifully
Essential Stockholm Style Principles
The Stockholm Color Palette
Stick to four core colors: black, gray, navy, beige. Add powder blue and muted earth tones for variation. These colors work together effortlessly and create that signature Scandinavian cohesion.
Relaxed But Structured Fits
Stockholm style embraces comfort without looking sloppy. Think:
- Oversized sweaters with structure
- Wide-leg trousers that still have shape
- Boxy tees that aren't baggy
- Coats that drape without overwhelming
The key is balance—relaxed silhouettes should still feel intentional.
Master the Art of Layering
Swedes layer for function AND style:
- Heavy tee → oversized knit → structured coat
- Oxford shirt → wool sweater → tailored blazer
- Turtleneck → casual blazer → wool overcoat
Each layer adds texture and depth while maintaining clean lines.
Quality Over Quantity
Stockholm style is about building a wardrobe that lasts. Invest in:
- Premium wool coats
- Quality knitwear
- Durable denim
- Classic leather shoes
These pieces work together season after season.
Seasonal Dressing Done Right
- Spring/Summer: Light linen shirts, cotton tees, tailored shorts, white leather sneakers, soft earth tones
- Fall/Winter: Wool coats, chunky knits, structured trousers, leather boots, darker neutrals
Stockholm style adapts to the climate while maintaining its minimalist aesthetic.
Quick Style Guide & Outfit Planner
The Classic Stockholm Look
- Filippa K wool overcoat in charcoal
- ARKET merino turtleneck
- NN07 tailored trousers
- Minimalist leather Chelsea boots
The Weekend Urban Look
- COS oversized gray knit sweater
- Relaxed black jeans
- White leather sneakers
- Simple tote bag
The Smart Casual Look
- Octobre Éditions Oxford shirt
- Structured cardigan
- Wide-leg chinos in beige
- Suede loafers
The Layered Winter Look
- Heavy cotton tee (base)
- Filippa K chunky wool knit
- COS wool overcoat
- Slim trousers tucked into leather boots
Stockholm Style vs. Other Aesthetics
vs. Old Money/Quiet Luxury: Stockholm style is more minimalist and urban. Less formal tailoring, more relaxed fits. Embraces Scandinavian functionality over American/European heritage.
vs. Streetwear: Stockholm style is refined and understated. No logos, no loud graphics. Comfort comes through quality fabrics and smart cuts, not oversized hoodies.
vs. Preppy: Less structured and traditional. Stockholm style trades blazers and polos for knits and architectural coats. More neutral, less colorful.
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Create a Free AccountStockholm Style vs. Other Aesthetics
vs. Old Money/Quiet Luxury: Stockholm style is more minimalist and urban. Less formal tailoring, more relaxed fits. Embraces Scandinavian functionality over American/European heritage.
vs. Streetwear: Stockholm style is refined and understated. No logos, no loud graphics. Comfort comes through quality fabrics and smart cuts, not oversized hoodies.
vs. Preppy: Less structured and traditional. Stockholm style trades blazers and polos for knits and architectural coats. More neutral, less colorful.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Stockholm style?
Stockholm style is a Scandinavian minimalist aesthetic featuring clean lines, neutral tones (black, gray, navy, beige), relaxed but structured fits, and purposeful layering. It emphasizes quality materials, seasonal adaptation, and effortless urban sophistication without logos or loud branding.
What brands embody Stockholm style?
The best Stockholm style brands include COS for accessible minimalism, Octobre Éditions for French-Scandi fusion, NN07 for Copenhagen cool, ASKET for sustainable essentials, and Norse Projects for functional design. Premium options include Acne Studios and Our Legacy.
How do I dress Stockholm style on a budget?
Start with COS for affordable Scandinavian minimalism and Weekday for budget-friendly basics. Focus on neutral colors that work together. Invest in one quality wool coat and build around it with simple tees, relaxed trousers, and clean sneakers.
What's the difference between Stockholm style and Scandinavian style?
Stockholm style is Scandinavian minimalism with a sharper, more urban edge. It's less rustic and hygge-focused than general Scandi style, more curated and city-appropriate. Think architecture studio over countryside cabin—same neutral palette, more refined execution.
What colors define Stockholm style?
The core Stockholm palette includes black, charcoal gray, navy, beige/camel, and white. Add powder blue, olive green, rust, and muted earth tones for variation. Avoid bright colors and busy patterns—Stockholm style is about subtle sophistication.
Can short men wear Stockholm style?
Yes! The key is choosing relaxed fits that are structured, not overwhelming. Avoid drowning in fabric—even oversized pieces should have shape. Keep proportions balanced: if your top is oversized, pair with slimmer bottoms. Tailoring helps ensure proper fit.
Is COS good quality?
Yes, COS offers impressive quality for its price point. While not luxury-tier, COS uses good fabrics, has excellent construction, and features thoughtful design. Pieces last multiple seasons with proper care. It's positioned above H&M but below premium Scandi brands.
What shoes work for Stockholm style?
Essential Stockholm shoes include white leather sneakers (Common Projects, Veja), suede Chelsea boots, minimalist leather derbies, and clean loafers—all in neutral colors without visible logos. Quality, understated footwear in black, brown, or white is key.
How is Stockholm style different from minimalism?
Stockholm style is minimalism with personality and seasonal awareness. While pure minimalism can feel stark, Stockholm style embraces texture, layering, and thoughtful details. It's warmer and more livable while maintaining clean, uncluttered aesthetics.
What makes Octobre Éditions special?
Octobre Éditions combines French tailoring with Scandinavian simplicity at accessible prices. Founded by Sézane's team in 2016, it offers premium European-made pieces with impeccable cuts and quality fabrics, making refined French-Scandi style attainable without luxury pricing.
