Scandinavian style tips for the Duchess of Cambridge ahead of the royal tour to Norway and Sweden next week
Next week, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will embark on their royal tour of Scandinavia, visiting two Nordic monarchies over a four day trip. Their first stop will be the Swedish capital, Stockholm, and the second will be Oslo, Norway.
During a royal tour, it's customary for the Duchess of Cambridge to adhere to a diplomatic dress code of sorts, be it an obvious display, like the the maple leaf hat she sported during a visit to Canada in 2011, or a more nuanced approach, like the embroidered dress by Indian-American designer Naeem Kahn which she chose for a visit to the Taj Mahal in 2016.
We can expect, therefore, that this Nordic adventure will see her stepping out in a Scandinavian brand or two. In anticipation of the tour, four Scandi tastemakers offer some sartorial pointers for the Duchess...
Layer up
''With stark seasons in Sweden I suggest always having staples that can be used as layers,'' says Elin Larsson, director of sustainability for Stockholm-based eco-conscious brand Filippa K. ''For example, purchasing a wool coat that can be worn throughout the year and styled up by adding layers. At the moment it's minus ten here in Stockholm, so I would suggest the Duchess adds a wool cape and an extra cashmere sweater underneath - all staples that can be worn together and separately.''
Jeanette Madsen, fashion editor of Danish magazine Costume, agrees: ''A jacket from Swedish brand Totême would be essential. Especially this one. The shape is feminine and classic, but still has that 'look at me' quality in a understated kind of way. And it's perfect for layering - which we [Scandinavians] are known for.''
An XL scarf is a must
While dressing for winter in the UK might mean a woolen coat and a knitted jumper, the Duchess will need to take extra precautions during her trip. Susanne Holzweiler, co-founder of Norwegian brand Holzweiler, which began life in 2012 as a luxury scarf collection and has since expanded into ready-to-wear (which is rumoured to have already caught the attention of the Duchess' assistant) stresses the importance of cozy accessories: ''The Duchess will need a big scarf in soft lambs wool - the perfect keep-warm accessory for our Nordic climate!''
Seek out a (Scandi) trench
Thought the trench coat was the preserve of us Brits? Think again. Madsen recommends that the Duchess top off her outfit with a gorgeous trench by Swedish brand Rodebjer, for a look that's polished and flattering. And given that the Duchess has thus far in her pregnancy been recycling her favourite outerwear, rather than opting for maternity-specific alternatives, we suspect she'll go for it.
A floral frock can work for evening, even in February
''Dressing up? ByTimo should be the Duchess' go-to,'' says Madsen of the Norwegian brand that specialises in feminine floral prints and lace (two things the Duchess has a penchant for) dresses that would be perfect for an evening engagement.
Don't overdo it
''The 'Scandi look' is about mastering the combination of different layers well without looking too styled,'' says Holzweiler. ''It should be effortless, comfortable and warm''.
Ditte Reffstrup, co-founder of cult Danish label Ganni, suggests taking the same less-is-more approach when it comes to accessorizing: ''For jewellery, I recommend Sophie Bille Brahe. She has such a rare sensibility when it comes to gold and diamonds, and her pieces are so dreamy and elegant. They don't scream, they just exude class.''
Think sustainably
''Decluttering your wardrobe and sticking to key pieces that are long lasting are part of our Scandinavian values,'' says Larsson. ''We would recommend considering adopting a more sustainable approach.'' Holzweiler concurs: ''Fashion is taking a more sustainable direction here in Norway.''
Given the Duchess' already conscious approach to style it's likely that this, paired with the fact that the sustainable style movement has gained huge traction in Scandinavia, might mean an even greater display of conscientious style during the royal tour.
A wrap dress is both flattering and practical
''With the Duchess being pregnant, she should try one of our wrap dresses,'' recommends Reffstrup. ''They saved me during my own recent pregnancy. A great, easy to wear go-to for everyday elegance.''
Duchess of Cambridge: every outfit ever
Put a Scandi spin on your beauty regime
As well as the brands to have on her radar and the Scandi dressing techniques to adopt, Holzweiler also has a Nordic beauty trick up her sleeve. ''Byredo has always been a favourite of mine,'' she says of the brand, founded by native Swede Ben Gorham, that specialises in gloriously smoky scents and luxurious bodycare.
