Every wardrobe needs a pair of jeans. So whether you are on the hunt for fitted, wide, trashed or tailored – Vogue Scandinavia has you covered. Here, we have gathered the best denim jeans to invest in from Scandinavian brands
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Some clothing items never grow old. Like a fine wine, they only get better with time. The subtle fading of a trusted pair of denim trousers – sporting that soft, perfectly washed-out colour – has us convinced that jeans make just for this kind of investment.
Scandinavian fashion – if a bit stereotypical – is known for its expertise in dressing casually yet elegant. With the local designers' mastery of workwear and practical styles, the typical look often includes all-black fashion, a classic white T-shirt, or a crisp oversized shirt. And, of course, a pair of jeans. With a minimalistic approach, Scandinavian fashion brands often put their design efforts into the fit rather than the embellishments, diligently designing denim that will stand the test of time.
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Which Scandinavian brands make the best jeans?
The list of reasons can be long, especially considering jeans are integral to every Scandinavian wardrobe. Celebrating over 25 years since launching its denim, there is no surprise Acne Studios take pride in theirs. However, turning our heads towards newcomers such as Jeanerica, BITE Studios and Tomorrow Denim – all producing almost exclusively in recycled cotton – it becomes evident that sustainability is what customers want today.
The perfect pair should act as your second skin, a go-to piece that you never want to take off - and it's no surprise that Vogue Scandinavia loves a good pair of denim. However, we are well aware of the difficulties in finding just the right pair.
So, below, we have gathered our favourite jeans from Scandinavia designers to invest in for the season.
Considering Tomorrow Denim's effortless aesthetics, it came as no surprise it is an enduring favourite in the Vogue Scandinavia office. These indigo-washed denim with highlighted orange seams and ample pockets make for a truly modern staple.
This Swedish brand has, since launching in 2016, proved with collection after collection, that sustainable fashion does not have to equal bland basics. Quite the opposite. These high-waisted light-washed jeans are that kind of pair that works just as well for a day in the office as a night downtown. The inside seam measures 31.5”, making them perfect for those blessed with long legs.
Have you ever thought about where the cotton in your denim is sourced? Or where they were stitched together? These denim trousers can actually give you the answer to all those questions. Being one of few brands that offer complete transparency, Asket hopes to change our view on consumption. These jeans were made to last and then last a little longer.
Being an expert on classic everyday looks, Anine Bing has become a go-to brand for many when finding that perfect pair of jeans. And these slightly trashed jeans in a light wash are a great example of the brand's expertly curated aesthetics. They would simply save any spring or summer look.
For those who prefer their denim on the non-restrictive end of the spectrum, look no further than this wide-leg dream from Weekday. They'll get you through the season slung low on the waist with chunky boots and distressed knits.
Nudie Jeans was an early pioneer when it came to producing conscious denim. And despite the market not being ready at the time, luckily, they have stayed true to their ethos. These dark blue jeans with orange seams – made from 100 per cent organic cotton – are probably as classic as they get. Straight fit, long legs, a high waist and very flattering - everything one wants in a pair of denim trousers. P.S. Nudie offers free life-long repairs of all their denim.
You're always going to feel good in a pair of Levi's 501s – there's a reason they are considered the original jeans blueprint. They were first invented in 1873 are we're still coveting the iconic straight fit and button fly 150 years later.
These jeans are not only gorgeous, but they are also a great example of innovative production. You might wonder how Our Legacy received that undeniably cool 3D effect in the colours? The answer is through digital printing. Digital printing is an altogether 'waterless' technique to get that stone-washed look. It allows the brand to achieve the same effect with a printing technology rather than bleaching and washing.
After spending more than two decades improving their denim, it is no wonder Acne Studios truly knows jeans. Already confident with its staple items, we love to see a more daring design from the brand. These loose fit jeans are the canvas for a great outfit, and a canvas in themselves if you opt to personalise them with Acne Studios' custom embroidery offering.
Produced locally in Italy and made in organic cotton, Filippa K never ceases to amaze with its premium, well-considered design like these dark-washed denim trousers. The front pintuck detail has a leg-lengthening effect that we love.
Arket is our go-to for wallet-friendly wardrobe staples, and these 'Maple' jeans – with a high-waist, figure-hugging fit and wide legs – do not disappoint. Style yours with a half-tucked knit and classic ankle boots.
Stockholm-based denim brand Jeanerica was founded with a vision to produce denim from sustainable, high-quality fabrics whilst not losing the sense of design and style. And the Fuji jeans is an excellent example of Jeanerica's design vision - made from organic cotton with a high waist and flared leg from the thigh with an idea to elongate the legs and create a flattering fit.
The 'Benz' jeans from Eytys are reminiscent of ’90s style, with their iconic baggy silhouette and stone-wash blue hue. Their unisex and versatile appeal suits every and anybody.