Top 13 'Copenhagen-Cool' Street Style Trends to explore for an Effortlessly Layered Look this spring
When you think of the world's major fashion capitals, cities like Paris, Milan, and New York immediately spring to mind. But in recent years, a new contender has captured the hearts and wardrobes of the fashion-forward: Copenhagen. There's an undeniable magic to the street style that emerges from the Danish capital—a perfect blend of playful expression, pragmatic comfort, and an artful approach to layering that feels both aspirational and refreshingly attainable.
Unlike the often-intimidating looks from other fashion weeks, Copenhagen style, or "Scandi style," is rooted in real life. It's about biking through the city, grabbing a coffee with friends, and braving unpredictable spring weather, all while looking impeccably put-together. The secret isn't about wearing the most expensive or exclusive pieces; it's about the way things are combined. It's a masterclass in texture, silhouette, and the strategic pop of color. Here at the Goh Ling Yong blog, we believe style should empower and inspire you in your daily life, and the Copenhagen aesthetic does exactly that.
So, how can you channel this "Copenhagen-Cool" energy into your own spring wardrobe? It all comes down to a few key pieces and styling tricks that champion the effortlessly layered look. We've studied the cobblestone runways of Copenhagen Fashion Week to bring you the top 13 trends that define this coveted aesthetic. Get ready to rethink your spring layers and embrace a new, joyful approach to getting dressed.
1. The Statement Trench Coat
The trench coat is a spring staple, but the Copenhagen set has elevated it from a classic necessity to a full-blown statement piece. Forget the standard, fitted beige trench (though that has its place!). We're talking oversized silhouettes that drape beautifully, unexpected colors like Klein blue or buttery yellow, and unique details like contrasting leather panels, exaggerated lapels, or bold, artistic buttons.
This isn't just an afterthought you throw on for rain; it's the anchor of your entire outfit. The beauty of an oversized trench is its layering capability. You can easily fit a chunky knit or even a tailored blazer underneath without looking bulky. For an authentic Scandi look, cinch the belt loosely and push up the sleeves to reveal the layers beneath.
How to wear it: Drape a colorful trench over a simple base of baggy jeans and a white t-shirt, letting the coat do all the talking. Or, layer it over a slip dress and pair it with sporty sneakers for a perfect high-low contrast.
2. Maxi Skirts (with a Utilitarian Twist)
The maxi skirt has made a definitive comeback, but in Copenhagen, it's shed its bohemian past for a more practical, edgier persona. The hero piece of the season is the denim maxi skirt, often in a straight or A-line cut with a front slit for movement. It’s closely followed by utilitarian cargo-style maxis, complete with pockets and a sturdy cotton twill fabric.
These skirts are the perfect transitional piece for spring. They offer more coverage than a mini for cooler days but still feel fresh and modern. The key is in the styling—it’s all about grounding the long silhouette. Avoid overly fussy tops; instead, opt for simplicity and balance.
How to wear it: Pair a dark-wash denim maxi with a slim-fit knit top or a simple baby tee. Add a pair of retro sneakers like Adidas Sambas and a leather bomber jacket for an effortless, model-off-duty look.
3. Gorpcore Goes High-Fashion
"Gorpcore"—a style inspired by outdoor and hiking gear—is a natural fit for the practical Danes. But they’ve mastered the art of integrating these hyper-functional pieces into chic, everyday outfits. Think technical windbreakers from brands like Arc'teryx or Salomon, cargo pants, and trail-running sneakers.
The trick to making gorpcore look "fashion" is the contrast. It's about pairing a waterproof shell jacket with something completely unexpected, like a delicate silk slip skirt or a pair of sharply tailored trousers. This juxtaposition of the rugged with the refined is the essence of modern Copenhagen cool. It shows you value both form and function.
How to wear it: Wear a brightly colored technical jacket over a neutral-toned cashmere sweater and wide-leg trousers. Finish the look with sleek sunglasses and a pair of Salomon XT-6 sneakers. You’ll look ready for a sudden spring shower or a gallery opening.
4. A Strategic Pop of 'Dopamine' Color
While Scandi style is often associated with minimalism and neutral palettes, the current mood is all about injecting joy through color. This isn't about head-to-toe neons, but rather a single, powerful "dopamine" pop that electrifies an otherwise simple outfit. Think a cherry-red handbag, a pair of cobalt blue socks peeking out from your sneakers, or a vibrant kelly green scarf.
This approach is brilliant because it's so easy to adopt. You don't need to overhaul your entire wardrobe. By investing in a few key accessories or a single colorful knit, you can instantly update your look for the new season. This small detail communicates confidence and a playful approach to fashion.
How to wear it: Start with a base of black, cream, or denim. Add a single vibrant element—a bright pink beanie, a zesty lime green sweater draped over your shoulders, or a bold pair of colorful sneakers.
5. The Modern 'Balletcore' Touch
The hyper-feminine "balletcore" trend gets a cool, grown-up makeover in Copenhagen. Instead of literal ballet costumes, it’s about incorporating subtle elements of dancewear into everyday looks. The hero piece is the simple ballet flat, which has replaced chunky loafers as the flat shoe of the moment.
Beyond footwear, you'll see soft wrap cardigans layered over simple tees, delicate tulle skirts worn under rugged leather jackets, and soft, stretchy bodysuits used as a sleek base layer. It’s about adding a touch of softness and grace to an otherwise practical and sometimes androgynous wardrobe.
How to wear it: The ultimate Copenhagen look is pairing simple black ballet flats with slouchy, light-wash baggy jeans. Add a fitted ribbed tank and an oversized blazer for a look that is perfectly balanced between masculine and feminine.
6. The Ubiquitous Baggy Jean
Skinny jeans are a distant memory on the streets of Copenhagen. The reigning denim silhouette is loose, slouchy, and unapologetically comfortable. We're talking wide-leg or straight-leg jeans that pool just a little around the ankle, often in a classic light or mid-wash.
The fit is crucial. They should be relaxed through the leg but still fit well at the waist (or be worn low-slung on the hips for a more Y2K feel). This relaxed silhouette serves as the perfect canvas for more structured or interesting pieces on top, creating a look that feels effortlessly cool rather than sloppy.
How to wear it: Pair your baggy jeans with a more fitted top to balance the proportions—a sleek bodysuit, a tucked-in button-down shirt, or a cropped knit. Throw on a blazer or trench coat to complete the look.
7. Versatile Vests for Layering
The vest is arguably the most valuable layering tool in the Scandi style arsenal. It provides that extra bit of warmth for your core without the bulk of a full-sleeved jacket, making it ideal for the fluctuating temperatures of spring. And the variety is endless.
You’ll see tailored waistcoat-style vests worn as tops on their own, chunky knit vests layered over crisp white shirts, and even lightweight puffer vests worn under trench coats for a sporty edge. Each type of vest adds a different texture and dimension to an outfit, making your layers look more intentional and thoughtfully composed.
How to wear it: Layer a cozy, oversized cable-knit vest over a long-sleeved striped tee and pair it with straight-leg trousers. Or, for a sharper look, wear a buttoned-up tailored vest with nothing underneath, paired with matching trousers for a modern take on suiting.
8. Leather for All Seasons
Leather isn't just for autumn and winter. In Copenhagen, it’s a year-round staple that adds instant polish and a touch of toughness to any look. For spring, the focus shifts from the heavy black biker jacket to more versatile pieces. Think buttery soft leather trousers in shades of chocolate brown or burgundy, sleek leather blazers, or even colourful leather trench coats.
A single leather piece can instantly elevate a simple outfit. It adds a luxurious texture that contrasts beautifully with softer materials like cashmere, cotton, or silk. It’s a durable, timeless investment that you can wear for years to come.
How to wear it: Style a pair of straight-leg leather trousers with a simple grey t-shirt, an oversized blue-and-white striped button-down (worn open), and sneakers. The look is relaxed but incredibly chic.
9. The Artful Scarf
For Scandinavians, a scarf is not just a practical accessory for warmth; it's a primary styling tool. In spring, you’ll see them worn in a multitude of ways to add color, texture, and personality. Chunky, brightly colored wool scarves are often looped loosely around the neck of a coat, providing a vibrant focal point.
Lighter silk scarves also make an appearance, tied around the neck in a classic knot, used as a headband, or even tied to the handle of a handbag. It’s a simple, low-commitment way to experiment with color and print, echoing the "dopamine dressing" trend.
How to wear it: Take a neutral-toned outfit, like a beige trench and black trousers, and add a large, fluffy scarf in a bold color like magenta or emerald green. Don't wrap it too tightly; let it hang with an air of casual nonchalance.
10. Sporty & Chic Sneakers
Comfort is king in Copenhagen, a city best explored on foot or by bike. This is why the right sneaker is non-negotiable. The current obsession is with retro, slim-profile sneakers and functional trail runners. Forget clunky, oversized "dad" sneakers; the look is now more refined and sporty.
Brands like Adidas (specifically the Samba, Gazelle, and Spezial models), Onitsuka Tiger, and Salomon are everywhere. They are worn with absolutely everything—from tailored suits and feminine dresses to the standard uniform of baggy jeans and a trench coat. They signal a relaxed, unpretentious attitude to style.
How to wear it: The most modern pairing is a sleek, low-profile sneaker with something more formal, like wide-leg tailored trousers or a satin maxi skirt. It’s this unexpected mix that makes the outfit feel current.
11. The Double-Knit Layer
This is a subtle but genius layering technique you’ll see all over Copenhagen. It’s the art of layering knitwear on top of knitwear. This could be a fine-gauge merino wool turtleneck worn under a chunky, oversized crewneck sweater, or a cardigan worn over another sweater.
The most popular iteration, however, is simply draping a second sweater over your shoulders, on top of the coat or jacket you’re already wearing. The sleeves are often tied in a loose knot at the front. This is both practical (you have an extra layer if the temperature drops) and incredibly stylish, adding an extra dimension of color and texture.
How to wear it: Wear a camel-colored coat and drape a navy blue or striped cashmere sweater over your shoulders. It instantly breaks up the solid block of color and adds a preppy, sophisticated touch.
12. Unexpected Textural Play
A key reason Copenhagen street style looks so rich and interesting is the masterful mix of textures. It’s a sensory approach to dressing that moves beyond just color and silhouette. An outfit composed entirely of neutral tones can look incredibly dynamic when different textures are at play.
Think about combining contrasting materials in a single look: the roughness of raw denim against the sheen of a silk camisole, the fuzziness of a mohair sweater with the sleekness of leather pants, or the crispness of a cotton poplin shirt under a rugged waxed canvas jacket. This technique adds depth and makes your outfit look far more expensive and considered.
How to wear it: Try pairing a slinky satin slip skirt with an oversized, chunky alpaca knit sweater. The contrast between the fluid, shiny fabric and the soft, matte wool is visually stunning.
13. The Relaxed, Oversized Blazer
The blazer is a cornerstone of the Scandi wardrobe, but the fit is key. It's never tight or overly structured. The ideal silhouette is oversized, slightly boxy, and often features a longer line, reminiscent of menswear. It's the ultimate versatile third piece that can pull any look together.
It's typically worn open and unbuttoned, creating a relaxed and effortless frame for the layers underneath. It can be thrown over a simple t-shirt and jeans to instantly elevate them, or it can be used to dress down a formal dress. Look for blazers in classic fabrics like wool, linen, or tweed in neutral shades of grey, navy, or beige.
How to wear it: For a classic spring look, layer an oversized grey wool blazer over a white t-shirt or a simple knit vest. Pair with your favorite baggy jeans and some sleek ballet flats or retro sneakers. It's a foolproof formula for everyday chic.
The true spirit of Copenhagen style isn't about perfectly replicating a specific look or buying a whole new wardrobe. It’s about adopting a mindset: one that values comfort, embraces playfulness, and understands the power of a well-executed layer. It's about building a wardrobe of versatile, high-quality pieces that you can mix and match in endlessly creative ways.
Start by picking one or two of these trends that resonate with your personal style. Maybe it's investing in a fantastic statement trench coat or simply trying the trick of draping a second sweater over your shoulders. Fashion should be fun and functional, and no one understands that better than the style stars of Copenhagen.
What's your favorite 'Copenhagen-Cool' trend you'll be trying this spring? Are there any Scandi styling tricks you already love? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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