"The fashion world can be harsh – the influencer landscape, especially – and seeing these women support each other as true friends is a breath of fresh air"
I recall first seeing the new crop of Norwegian influencers, walking arm in arm towards the shows at Copenhagen Fashion Week. They immediately distinguished themselves from their Danish and Swedish counterparts, embracing fun, colour and camaraderie in a way the others didn’t. The fashion world can be harsh – the influencer landscape, especially – and seeing these women support each other as true friends is a breath of fresh air. That they come from Norway, such a young, up-and-coming country on the fashion scene, one filled with emerging brands I so believe in, makes this group even more unique.
Each of these women has a distinct style and attitude. I can recall sitting by Darja at her first Chanel show – us Scandinavians are often seated together at the big shows – and her excitement was palpable. She has such a knack for understated Nordic minimalism, always with her own twist. Janka, meanwhile, is a powerhouse, advocating for the anti-retouch law in Norway and promoting body positivity in a way that’s distinctly her. Nina is embracing a high-octane glamour that suits her so beautifully and Marianne is a true original – no one puts looks together like her. She’s been in the Vogue Scandinavia family since the very beginning, lending her bag expertise. To have these four women together on the cover, shot just outside of Oslo, is a moment for them, for us and for Norway at large. It’s a moment I’m very proud of.
Over in Denmark, we capture another major moment. Danish-Kurdish pop star Tobias Rahim has taken his country by storm, creating a fanbase whose love for him borders on obsession. Rahim’s story – and the story behind our stunning photoshoot at Frederiksborgs slott – is a must-read. It’s easy to see why he’s developed such a passionate following in such a small time. And on a personal note, as someone fluent in Danish, I really get a kick out of his quirky, personal lyrics. Yes, I’m announcing myself as a Tobias Rahim fan.
They immediately distinguished themselves from their Danish and Swedish counterparts, embracing fun, colour and camaraderie in a way the others didn’t
Martina Bonnier
In Stockholm, the moment belongs to actress Alva Bratt. Or perhaps it’s better to say that we’re just on the cusp of her moment. With a look that harkens to the stars of old Hollywood and the charisma and acting chops to match, we expect to have Alva’s name on our lips for years to come.
Also in this issue, a stunning tribute to a Swedish legend by way of the upcoming series Börje, a bio-series on the late hockey legend Börje Salming. Here, we feature Valter Skarsgård, who transformed into the icon for the role, and Hedda Stiernstedt, who plays his first wife Margitta. The beautiful relationship between these two actors borne from the complicated experience of portraying such a legend is uniquely moving.
On the beauty side of things, we take you into the budding universe of Danish luxury beauty brand Alûstre. Yes, Denmark has a great tradition of great beauty brands, but ever since I met founder and CEO Hans Hornemann, I’ve known Alûstre is something special. Not only does the brand have a patented diamond-forward formula (no surprise, I love diamonds), Hans just has what it takes to build a beauty empire: bravery, first and foremost.
Our fashion stories this issue will gear you up for the holidays. We have a great story on faux fur, which will instantly convince you to add one to your winter repertoire if you haven’t already. Then there’s our tribute to everyday glamour – the way in which we in the Nordics may pair a glittery midi skirt with a hoodie, for instance. If that doesn’t get you in the holiday spirit, our story on Sofia Vusir Jansson’s lovely paper flower bouquets will. We’ve asked the Swedish artist to make a special holiday arrangement and as an added treat, we’ll teach you how to make your own. Last but not least, a deep dive into the world of knäckebröd, a given on every holiday table. Cosy up by the fire and enjoy. God jul!
