Stockholm Travel Essentials Packing List

Denmark, Sweden, and Norway are often praised for their beautiful cities, breathtaking scenery, and unique architecture. However, as a fashion and travel writer, I had one more thing in mind as I was making a trip to the region for the first time: clothes. As a first-time visitor to Sweden, I knew this would be my perfect opportunity to tap into the Scandinavian-style outfits that I see trending every fall and winter. Whether you’re traveling to Copenhagen or Stockholm, you’ll be sure to come across someone wearing a rather stylish outfit that capitalizes on minimalistic design, layering, and neutrals — all of which are key elements to a travel capsule wardrobe.

In order to prepare for my week-long trip, utilizing this minimalist technique was crucial to getting everything I needed into one checked bag. Thankfully, I managed to pack everything I needed to save space and match the locals — but I also took notes of some fashion trends I saw during my time in Stockholm. Now, I’m here to share my findings with you. Keep reading for a list of the 15 fashion items that will help you master Scandinavian style, based on what locals are wearing.

Sam Edelman Cotton Blend Trench Coat

When I think of Scandinavian style, a trench coat is always the first thing that comes to mind. It’s a sensible option that can help protect you from the elements while also bringing a stylish touch to your outfit. While in Sweden, I noted how the women utilized these coats as the finishing touch for their looks, so I tried my best to do the same. Trench coats are the perfect transition piece from summer to fall since they’re optimal for layering. They are also ideal in the spring, so even if you’ve already moved on to your winter coat this year, you’d still have the opportunity to wear a trench sooner than you’d think. Nordstrom currently has this chic Sam Edelman Cotton Blend Trench Coat with a removable hood on sale now for $130

Everlane The Dream Mini Skirt

One of the main purposes of a capsule wardrobe is to easily mix and match clothes, which is exactly why I love a solid black mini skirt. Because you can style it in a variety of ways, a simple skirt like this one from Everlane can be worn any time of day. The A-line design is flattering, and it’ll go with just about anything in your suitcase. For trips where I know I’ll be doing a good amount of walking, I also love a skirt with built-in shorts like this one from Abercrombie, so I’m not constantly pulling my skirt down as I walk. With a pair of tights, it quickly became an essential clothing item of mine on my trip.

Pumiey Women's Long-sleeve T-shirt

Since layering is a key part of the Scandinavian look (as well as staying warm), go ahead and throw in a few basic long-sleeve shirts into your suitcase. Just because they’re simple, it doesn’t mean they can’t be dressed up nicely with a few accessories; I always opt for a form-fitting shirt like this Amazon find because of its incredibly soft material and durability. Some reviewers have also confirmed that the shirt provides a slim fit but “does not feel constricting at all,” meaning it’s sure to give you all-day comfort. This style comes in 10 different colors for less than $30 each.

Madewell The Sydney Shoulder Bag

While exploring Stockholm, I noticed that minimalist designs apply to accessories as well. The local Swedish women seemed to carry neutral-toned handbags that could go with any outfit, so I was thankful to have packed a small leather purse, like this Madewell bag, with me on the trip. I found a small shoulder bag to be more convenient than a large tote or handbag for evening activities or dinner. Plus, the shape and chic design will immediately elevate any outfit — basically, any little black bag will do. 

Cole Haan Gema Tall Lug

One of the easiest ways to look put together in the fall and winter is by adding a tall leather boot to your collection, and thankfully, this rule still applies while you’re abroad. I practically lived in my pair of tall Cole Haan boots while exploring Europe, and they came in handy for a variety of reasons. Not only are they a stylish choice for daytime and nighttime wear, but their taller shaft will also help keep your legs warm in the cooler months. If you’re considering a pair for an upcoming trip, I’d suggest a boot with a chunky heel in case you find yourself on a cobblestone street.

Everlane The Boxy Sweater in Everyday Cotton

Nothing says fall like a cozy sweater. To stay warm in lower temperatures, I packed a couple of basic sweaters like Everlane’s The Boxy Sweater. The boxy fit makes it the perfect top for a casual daytime look that transitions well into the evening. One thing that I love about this sweater is that it’s made out of 100 percent organic cotton, so it keeps me warm but still has a breathable fabric so I don’t overheat. All 13 colors available are selling out fast, so get one of them (or two!) while you can.

Novawo Wool Scarf

If you're preparing for a trip to a Scandinavian country, make sure to pack a scarf or buy one while you’re there. A large, chunky, wool scarf is a fundamental piece in any Scandi wardrobe, and it’s an excellent way to add some dimension to a minimalist look. By throwing on a thick scarf, you’ve not only found a way to add some texture and color to your outfit, but you also have a great way to stay warm. This Novawo Wool Scarf at Amazon was highly recommended and described as “excellent quality” by one customer.

Madewell Emmett Wide-Leg Jean in Leffers Wash: Welt Pocket Edition

If you plan on utilizing a capsule wardrobe during your time abroad, you’ll want to bring a comfortable and stylish pair of denim with you. Madewell’s Tall Emmett Wide-leg Jean would be an incredible addition to any European city packing list because of its versatile, stylish cut and silhouette alone. These jeans are also constructed with just enough stretch to add some comfort while you’re on the go, and they’re designed with details that elevate any look, like the wide-leg style, front welt pockets, and seam that runs down the back legs. These chic pants even come in petite, standard, and tall sizing.

Good American Poplin Trousers

One thing I admire about the Scandinavian style is the ability to take any classic, simple item — like slacks — and style it in a new, modern way. While I was traveling, I felt extremely stylish while wearing trousers, a cardigan, a trench coat, sneakers, and accessories. By adding some layering pieces like the cardigan and coat with the slacks, you’ve created a hip outfit to blend in with Swedes and Danes alike. My pair of Good American trousers also happens to be one of the most comfortable pairs of pants I own, so they come with me whenever possible. 

Reebok Club C 85 Vintage Shoes

Part of what makes Nordic countries so admirable is their beautiful cities with cobblestone-lined streets and historic architecture. However, where there is a walkable city, there is also the need for comfortable walking shoes. I noticed that the residents of Stockholm don’t shy away from practical shoes like lifestyle sneakers to stay comfortable throughout the day. For a capsule wardrobe, I’d recommend a white sneaker like the Reebok Club C, since it goes with a wide range of outfits — and they also happen to be incredibly durable. I’ve brought my pair of Reeboks while traveling Europe and several other destinations, and I’m always impressed by how well they’ve held up after long days on my feet.

Everlane The Luxe Rib Turtleneck

In the colder seasons, you can never go wrong packing a turtleneck, and Everlane’s Luxe Rib Turtleneck is an amazing, versatile choice. With 12 different color options to choose from, this staple piece would not be difficult to integrate into your wardrobe. Everlane’s Supima Cotton fabric allows this to be worn as a standalone item, but I also love to wear a turtleneck as a layering tool for the fall and winter by wearing it under a cardigan, button-down, or vest. With reviews from customers that say they have been buying these turtlenecks “for years,” it’s clear that people can’t get enough.

Furtalk Beanie

A knit beanie is one of the best accessories to complete your outfit if you’re planning to be outside in lower temperatures. And, it’s another fun way to add a pop of color to your outfit without much effort. This beanie from the brand Furtalk at Amazon has 19 colors that are all currently on sale for under $15. Several customers have raved about how soft and well-made the beanie is, and one reviewer specifically said it was “perfect for some cool, windy weather.” 

Fjallraven Expedition X-latt Jacket

If you’re traveling to any Scandinavian country in the fall, proper outerwear is a must-have. On chillier days, I was glad to have a jacket that kept me warm while I was exploring the city. Because you could experience cold, rainy, and/or windy days during a Nordic fall, I’d suggest a well-lined jacket such as Fjallraven’s Expedition X-latt Jacket. The Swedish brand’s lightweight jacket is sure to keep you warm and dry with its wind and water-resistant outer layer and insulation. It also packs into itself so you can easily store it while not in use.

Athleta All About Crossbody Bag

Scandinavia is where style, practicality, and comfort all meet, and your choice of bag should be no different. I am always a fan of a crossbody bag when traveling to a new destination, such as a sling like Athleta’s All About Crossbody Bag — it’s the perfect carryall for your everyday needs. I used it in Stockholm and fit my phone, wallet, portable charger, passport, kindle, and other small items while exploring. I also like to wear the crossbody in front of my body to add an extra layer of security and safekeeping for my belongings. Athleta’s crossbody currently comes in four gorgeous colors for fall.

J.Crew Garçon Classic Shirt in Cotton Poplin

A button-down shirt is a timeless piece that can be easily incorporated into any wardrobe. Including one or two button-downs in your luggage is a great way to make a variety of classic looks. Whether you style your top with a pair of jeans and flats for a casual outfit or a skirt and pointed-toe boots for a classy evening look, you’re guaranteed to arrive in style wherever you go. This J. Crew Cotton Poplin Shirt comes in petite, regular, and tall sizes, and it’s an amazing classic stylish option that could easily have you mistaken as a local.

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