Scandinavian culture, lifestyle, fashion, and design have become somewhat of an obsession for many in the English speaking world. Ever since Sarah Lund’s chunky knit jumpers graced our screens back in 2007 in the Nordic noir television series, The Killing, the world was awakened to the aspirational aesthetics of the wintery north. Aside from thrilling police dramas, the concept of Hygge (the difficult-to-translate state of warmth and coziness) has also managed to travel its way down south and has been incorporated into the Scandi-inspired interiors of many modern British homes. In terms of fashion, the influence of Stockholm and Copenhagen street style can be seen almost everywhere whilst walking around London. Among many other Scandinavian companies, the H&M family dominates the high street, with the effortlessly cool aesthetics of COS, Weekday, Arket and Monki inspiring multitudes of both bold and minimalist trends.

However, when discussing the cultural impact of Nordic design on the British fashion world, the focus on Sweden and Denmark often leaves their understated yet equally stylish Norwegian neighbours overlooked. Norway’s progressive and forward-thinking fashion community deserves to be acknowledged, as long-standing and up-and-coming designers alike have a lot to offer within the wider Scandinavian aesthetics of sophisticated style and simplicity. Here is a few of the Norwegian brands that are making waves within the fashion industry, and that is putting Norway on the map in terms of fashion.

CATHRINE HAMMEL

Inspired by a combination of the Bauhaus architectural movement and a progressive Scandinavian way of life, Cathrine Hammel’s garments are designed to last. Citing durability as the key to sustainable fashion, the brand’s focus is on creating simple and versatile styles that are wearable for all seasons, occasions and moods. Think military-style trench coats, gothic tulle dresses, and modern interpretations of the classic Scandinavian knitwear; all perfect for both work and play.

IBEN

IBEN’s ethos is completely centered around female empowerment and reflects Norway’s deeply entrenched values of gender equality. Providing women with simple yet bold fashion choices, IBEN’s comfortable garments provide the wearer the freedom to build upon and present her own personal interpretation of femininity, as opposed to an expectation that has been ascribed to her. The newest collection includes loose two-pieces and minimalist shirt dresses that, depending on how they are styled, can be worn to achieve a multitude of different looks.

iiS OF NORWAY

The AW19 iiS Woodling collection conjures up nostalgia for an imagined childhood spent in rural Norway, even for the many who have never even visited! The deep tones and cozy aesthetics tell the stories of traditional Norwegian culture and of its rich and vibrant natural landscapes. iiS of Norway is a brand that adapts to the season, succumbing to nature’s power and creating designs that complement it as opposed to resisting it. A collection favourite is the Turid Fløyeskjole dress, available in a rusty red or oaky brown, whose shape and design honors a classic Norwegian style and way of life.

TOM WOOD

Tom Wood is what can only be described as the imagined ‘All Norwegian’ brand, an effortlessly cool Nordic alternative to the All American aesthetic. The unisex brand offers clothing, jewellery, and accessories for Norway’s most fashionable and environmentally conscious. Their AW19 collaborative collection with Røros Tweed, a Norwegian textiles design company, is bringing some of this season’s most unique designs to the hungry hands of fashion lovers. Inspired by the rural north and traditional Norwegian craftsmanship, these woolen coats, shirts, and sweaters don striking patterns that are sure to be show-stopping pieces of statement streetwear for years to come.

SØSTER STUDIO

Describing itself as a season-less brand, Søster Studio provides custom made items for a “capsule wardrobe”. The focus is on slow-fashion sustainability, and the company considers its social, ethical and environmental responsibility in all aspects of its design, production, and distribution. The exquisite pieces are made to order, using all vegetarian and predominantly recycled materials. Based in London, founder and designer Pernille Nadine take inspiration from the progressive and forward-thinking design culture of her Norwegian roots.

EPILOGUE

Epilogue’s distinct silhouettes are inspired by Oslo’s sleek and modern architecture. The brand claims to empower the urban woman, with strong looks that are ready to wear straight off the catwalk. A combination of trench dresses, pantsuits, and sculptured jackets, the designs take inspiration from the robustness of heavyweight menswear. Because of this, the pieces have a sharp androgyny about them that represents a refusal to conform to the expectations of femininity, as well as the neo-gothic harshness of inner-city living.

London, Paris, Milan… OSLO! The six designers putting Norway on the fashion map