Scandinavian for value

Copenhagen StreetStyle this week gives us Rebecca, aged 15. Yes, 15. Why was I not this cool when I was 15? Why am I still not this cool almost 6 years later?! I think the main answer to this question is because I am not Scandinavian.

My hypothesis is thus: being Scandinavian automatically makes you 26 times cooler fashion-wise than everyone else.

Proof #1 is Rebecca here with her cosy big scarf, messy-chic hair, wonderful fringe, simple outfit and (as far as I can tell) no need for make-up. And also just Copenhagen StreetStyle in general, see below for examples.





(another annoyingly stylish 15 year old. Totally unfair.)



Proof #2 is FashionGirl on Stockholm Streetstyle who is my style icon. She dresses in a really simple way and yet always looks totally fashionable and original.







Proof #3 is Swedish label Acne. The coolest label going, and not ridiculously expensive either. Plus you won't end up looking like a fashion victim as Acne plays by its own rules instead of enforcing jeggings on the world. (Ditto Fifth Avenue Shoe Repair)





Hypothesis proved. The End. Case closed.

P.S. I'm totally treating myself to a shopping trip to Sweden once I'm finished in France....Monki here I come!

Bea Fashionable

I have already professed my love for Sweden, and more specifically my love for Stockholm Street Style. It is this minor obsession with our Viking friends that caused me to discover Bea Szenfeld, a rather adorable designer. Although originally born in Poland, Bea moved to Sweden at eleven and learned her craft at both Cutters Academy in Gothenburg and Beckman’s College of Design in Stockholm. She started her own label in 2002, as well as her very own vintage line.



I saw this photograph and though "is that a blackbird on her hat?" which of course led me to google her name and discover her fashion label.



The above pictures are cited as "inspiration" and, to be perfectly honest, who couldn't love a designer who understands the importance of rabbits and their carrots?







The pieces are all wonderfully simple and remind me of period dramas and children's history books. Two very prominent fashion sources, I'll have you know.

Delving into the archived collections, the simplistic edge remains, as does the childish touch. I personally adore the paper dresses collection, although I do have slight reservations about how well they would preserve my modesty, and what would happen if it rained...

It's raining men

Yesterday I was thinking, as I often do, about the state of men's style. It seems that too many men are content in wearing the most boring and/or unflattering outfits they possibly can, with no thought to flair or fashion. Of course, the stereotype I could use here is that of gay men, the flamboyant and fashion-conscious members of the less-fair sex, but I'm talking about finding a nice, well-dressed man who wouldn't know more about heels than I do.

Now, I think that perhaps facehunter has been listening to my pleas for some well-attired gentlemen as yesterday's post was Brick Lane Boys. The outfits weren't of my particular and very very specific taste for men, but my it was lovely to see some gents who had made a bit of effort.



I always think it's nice to see men dressing smartly. This guy's blazer is very dapper, and his hair is impressive, if not actually to my taste.

I was already planning a post on men's style before facehunter came up with his lovely choices, one of my pointless habits is scouring Topman for the best clothes - really I should have someone to buy for, although I would be entirely broke by now if I did! So here's a little taster into how I'd dress a nice boy...




As you can tell I have a serious cardigan obsession!

I suppose it must be quite difficult for men to be too fashion forward without also being mocked, but really the sort of men who mock are also the sort of men who look like boyband rejects. It's always appreciated when a man puts some effort into his outfit, although I suppose it should all look quite effortless! In all honesty it's much like the trials and tribulations of women's fashion but without the allure of high-heeled shoes.


image from facehunter


image from stockholm streetstyle


image from the sartorialist

...of course there are always the men who go all out, and look pretty darn amazing for doing so! I love this guy's moustache, and neck tie and wonderful quiff. He is quite the epitome of dapper.


image from facehunter

ILU Iloa

I am utterly convinved that Scandinavians have the best fashion sense. Sweeping statement, I know, but I'm continually impressed by everyone featured on both Hel Looks and Stockholm Streetstyle.

A brand new reason for my love of all things Scandinavian is my discovery of the fashion label Iloa, by Finnish UIAH graduate Anu Salonen. Her designs are simple with clean lines and a childlike feel to them. The sort of clothing you could wear when you want to look cute slobbing around the house as well as out and about.