Why is it that I've been anticipating summer's arrival for months but, now that it's here (ish), I find myself completely unprepared for it? My toes still have the final flakes of my last pedicure on them, my skin looks almost blueish and my wardrobe is still full of my winter knitwear. So this week, I've decided to make a few changes; I have booked in with my nail tech who will remove my accidental burgundy French tips and replace them with a zingy gel shade. I've just placed an order for the only fake tan I've found that I can apply without making myself streaky. As for my wardrobe? I've placed my winter wares back into their flat-pack bags and banished them to the loft and, in their place, I've begun unpacking all of my lightweight clothing for the season ahead.
Over the years I've leaned towards anti-trend pieces, so what I'm left with is a collection of what I'd consider to be staples—simple dresses and separates in a predominantly neutral palette. The thing is, I've kind of forgotten how to style them; last summer really wasn't up to par and I just didn't get as much wear out of them as much as I had hoped, which is why I've been collating as much outfit inspiration as I can get. Looking over the imagery filling my saved folders, as a self-confessed Francophile, I was surprised that the majority of the looks I'd archived were from Scandi influencers. To be fair, they have perfected the simple dressing that I've been drawn to lately. Universally appealing and inherently chic, I thought you'd like to see them, too.
Scroll on to see my favourite Scandi summer outfits, many of which you may even be able to re-create with items you already own.
8 Scandi Summer Outfits I'm Desperate to Re-Create
1. Stripe Shirt + Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: White wide-leg trousers are a summer style staple presenting a breezy alternative to jeans. Although they can be easily dressed up. I'm into Lydia's low-key styling, which involves a fresh blue striped shirt and knitted vest top.
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A striped shirt can be tucked, left loose or worn as a cover-up.
The perfect top for layering—and it's stretchy.
A relaxed fit is made for warm summer days when you don't want to wear shorts.
2. Headscarf + White Dress
Style Notes: Nothing says summer quite like a linen dress and Lina showcases the perfect way to style this simple frock option—with chunky earrings and a silky headscarf.
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Scarves are versatile pieces and give the perfect dose of retro nostalgia.
These also come in a gold-plated version.
Ethereal and cool thanks to linen—this is the epitome of a perfect summer dress.
3. Simple Vest + Denim Shorts
Style Notes: Denim shorts can look insanely polished, as evidenced by Mona, who keeps her look slick with a basic camisole and slider sandals. She expertly uses accessories to elevate her outfit too, adding a statement necklace, a sleek belt and cool sunnies.
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Comfortable and a basic staple everyone needs on hand.
Dark wash and a high waist keeps these classic.
The toe wrap detail makes these stand out from basic sandals.
4. Racer Vest + Miniskirt
Style Notes: There's been a newfound appreciation for white vests over the last couple of years with fashion types wearing them with, well, absolutely everything—jeans, shorts, wide-leg trousers, you name it. For summer, hone in on the preppy aesthetic with a pleated miniskirt.
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Perfect for chillier evenings.
Fitted vests are essential tops for tucking into skirts, shorts and relaxed trousers.
The wrap cut is a nice departure from more uniform mini skirts.
5. Slip Skirt + Basket Bag
Style Notes: Fabric plays an integral role in how Scandi women put an outfit together, and what could be more cooling than a silk slip skirt? Pair with a linen halter top and a straw basket bag for a chic textile clash.
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This looks stunning with any bottoms, whether it's a slip skirt or wide-leg jeans.
A glint of silver makes any neutral outfit pop.
The movement and silky texture equals a dreamy summer skirt.
6. White Blouse + Blue Jeans
Style Notes: If in doubt, you can't go wrong with a white blouse-and-blue jeans outfit. Make like Nnenna and pair yours with simple sandals—flip-flops in this instance—and some black-cord jewellery for current styling flair.
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After a few wears, relaxed fit jeans are some of the comfiest trousers going.
7. Sundress + Statement Bag
Style Notes: If colourful Scandi summer outfits are your jam, Milla's feed is full of inspiration—whittling her looks down was too hard to do. So, let me draw your attention to this on-point ensemble next, which showcases an easy way to combine bold colours. Opt for a bright sundress and pair it with an equally vivid statement bag for something that stands out from neutral outfits.
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Although it's bright, this classic silhouette goes with anything.
A bright and playful investment that'll work for every summer to come.
Leather mules with a block heel win points for comfort and elegance.
8. White Vest + Linen Pants + Cap
Style Notes: You can't go wrong with white on white when it comes to summer outfits. Jeanette's look is effortless, and having both a ribbed tank and relaxed-fit trousers in your wardrobe guarantees you a wide range of outfit combinations throughout the season.
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A ribbed tank is a summer staple for so many outfits.
Straight-leg linen trousers are ideal for lounging at home or packing for a holiday.
Keep the linen theme going with this beige cap.
This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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