I was in Copenhagen last month, and while I loved the culture and food, I was most excited to check it out for the fashion. It was fun to window-shop at brands I've admired from afar, like By Malene Birger or A.Hoege Rove, and to see first-hand what Scandinavian style is all about. It's no wonder the city is a fashion destination. Its designers cover a broad spectrum: there are sleek minimalist brands (like the ones I mentioned); and more eclectic, colorful brands like Ganni or Saks Potts. It was wonderful to see the way women put outfits together, mixing vintage and new pieces, prints and materials, and balancing sporty with feminine elements. At its core, Scandinavian style is all about creating tension in an outfit while maintaining comfort and functionality (they basically invented styling sneakers with dresses). As I prepare for summer, I can't help but feel inspired by my trip. I’m gravitating towards pieces that are easy, relaxed, and wearable (and find myself thinking of the ways I can style them together to create an unexpected look).
Finds of the Month:
Products I’m wish-listing, wearing, or coveting
A. Leather Fishnet Bag
Aynie Bsas Ortiz Mini Bag, $350 - I stumbled upon this leather hand-knotted bag last summer and was struck by the softness of the lamb leather. It has a pillowy-soft body that acts as the perfect cushion for your summer essentials. You can find price-friendly iterations of this seaside-inspired trend from Clare V via TRR ($62), Etsy ($50) and J.Crew ($49.50).
B. Cheerful Lightweight T-Shirt
Gabriel for Sach Alya T-Shirt, $114 - This comfy, light baby tee from Gabriel for Sach comes in an inviting color palette that adds a pop of fun to any outfit. Personally, I have my eyes on the yellow one. There’s also this $15 version from Uniqlo, which creates a similar effect from a styling point of view.
C. A Thong for Your Foot
Emme Parsons Cecilia Leather Sandal, $415 - Emme Parsons reigns as the queen of the naked sandal. I love the refined design of the Cecilia sandal and have it on my mood board for this summer. I adore the concept of pairing it with the low-slung Gimaguas pants and Lemaire Tank Top (below). It’s super expensive, though, so I’ll probably opt for one of these way more affordable alternatives: Vince ($98), Zappos ($118), Zara ($89.90).
D. Shrunken Tank Top
Lemaire Round Neck Tank, $139 - If I wear pants during the summer, I prefer them to be billowy and relaxed. I love the concept of wearing loose pants juxtaposed with the fitted nature of this Lemaire tank. The contrast gives off a 90s vibe in all the right ways with its high crew neckline. The slick jersey material makes it easy to dress up or down. Here's another option from Flore Flore ($85) that also caught my eye.
E. Easy Linen Pants
Gimaguas Tuva Trousers, $105 - These cotton cargo trousers remind me of Jennifer Aniston’s iconic outfit house-hunting in LA with Brad Pitt. The fact that they are made of linen makes them feel more modern and feminine, as opposed to sporty, which isn't really my thing.
F. Billowy Grecian Dress
Massimo Dutti Pleated Dress, $169 - This ethereal pleated dress from Massimo Dutti reminds me of the elegance of Attersee's Fluid Cape dress, which left me speechless when their summer collection launched. Unlike Attersee, the surplice neck and tie-waist of this version from Massimo make it a bit easier (in my opinion) to wear.
G. Mesh Flats
Dear Frances Balla Mesh Flat, $380 - I'm calling it: mesh ballet flats are the shoes of the summer. I know you probably think they're impractical, and you're right. But also, how cute are they? Rachel Comey (on sale for $176), Loeffler Randall ($275), Khaite ($880), and Sandy Liang have all released their own versions, but these Dear Frances ones feel like a more approachable version. I'm glad I already snagged mesh slippers from The Row last year on super sale at The Real Real.
Recently Discovered:
Nicklas Skovergard - While in Copenhagen, I discovered the designer Nicklas Skovgaard. His garments are handwoven and carefully stitched together in his charming studio in Østerbro. I adore the volume and opulence of his unique designs and desperately wish I had an occasion to wear this silver outfit.
Finds With Substance:
Listen to Tremaine Emory: How To Become A Creative Director In Fashion (from the podcast Started from the Bottom). I was captivated by Tremaine’s journey to become a creative director at Supreme. It was truly inspiring to hear about his humble beginnings in fashion and culturally diverse upbringing in NY. I wholeheartedly recommend that anyone working in a creative industry listen to his story.
Play Atelier September's Vol 1. Playlist. Atelier September is a charming café in Copenhagen founded by chef Frederick Bill Brahe. I loved the casual vibe — our meal was brought out on mix-matched dishes, the staff was friendly, and the chef himself stopped by to hang out with his son in tow. I listen to this playlist to transport myself back to the meals I had there during my trip.
Eat Crunchy Pistachio Butter. I don't care what anyone says, pistachio butter is the best nut butter of them all. The flavor is a delicious combination of nuttiness, creaminess, and a touch of sweetness. I've been dipping pieces of bread in it, adding it to yogurt or ice cream, and taking my spoon straight to the jar for a midday snack.