11 Best Scandinavian Style Travel Outfits for Summer

Long days, wildflower crowns, and the faint scent of dill and woodsmoke in the air—summer in Scandinavia is one of the dreamiest experiences on Earth. Whether you’re island-hopping in Sweden, biking through Denmark’s countryside, or plunging into a chilly Finnish lake post-sauna, you’ll want to dress the part not just for the photo ops (though they are excellent), but because the weather can shift from 60 degrees Fahrenheit and sunny to drizzly and cold in an hour. 

After six years of living in Copenhagen and exploring the Nordic region in every season, I’ve landed on a travel capsule wardrobe that works for beach towns, city strolls, and late-night bonfires. Layers are key, as is packing light, and Scandinavians prize minimalism; you’ll find yourself happiest in versatile pieces you can rewear again and again. Below, you’ll find Scandinavian style essentials that are practical, breathable, and made to move. From Vivaia’s ballet-style sneakers to a Patagonia swimsuit that doubles as a bodysuit, here is how to build the perfect Scandi-inspired travel outfits. 

Vivaia Square-toe Lace-up Satin Sneakerina Shoes

These Vivaia Sneakerina shoes combine the utilitarian feel of a flat with the polish of a lacey ballet style. They’re ultra-lightweight, made with soft satiny uppers and rubber soles that provide serious grip for slippery docks and cobblestones. The viral shoes come with two sets of shoelaces, and they hold up beautifully to long city walks and unexpected summer rain.

Shopping on a budget? Amazon shoppers have been eyeing the newly added Cushionaire Belinda Lace Sneakers, on sale for $48, for their European adventures and long travel days with lots of walking.  

Topshop Floral Lace Panel Skirt

This lightweight, cotton-blend Topshop maxi skirt adds instant elegance, without being too precious. It has sheer lace insets for a peek of leg and a flexible waistband that’ll feel oh-so-comfy after a big seafood lunch. It rolls up nicely in a suitcase and can be dressed down with sneakers or elevated with a slinky tank.

Zesica Chiffon Tiered Pleated Dress

A dream for travel days or city dinners, this shopper-loved pleated dress camouflages wrinkles with its neutral pleats in the soft and airy material, making this perfectly packable. It’s a breathable style. Despite the lightweight fabric, the dress is still machine washable—ideal when laundry options are limited. Bonus: it takes up barely any room in your suitcase. If you’ve got the budget, be sure to check out this Issey Miyake option that I’m a huge fan of.

Faleave Matching Summer Sweater Set

This Amazon matching set is breathable enough for the daytime, yet still cozy enough for cooler evenings walking by the water. The loose-fitting top can easily be paired over everything from slip dresses to linen trousers. In the mood for a splurge? From beloved Finnish brand Marimekko, this airy linen knit features bold florals in a neutral palette, making it a statement piece that’s still easy to style. 

Everlane Khaki Wide-leg Linen Pants

These high-rise pants from Everlane are made from a breezy linen-viscose blend that won’t wrinkle as badly as 100 percent linen. The structured waistband gives them a polished look for dinners, but they’re breathable and comfortable enough for all-day wear—even on long travel days or bike rides (just tuck one leg into your sock). Pockets are deep enough to stash your phone and keys.

Shopping on a budget? Over at Quince, the 100% European Linen Wide-leg Pants in seven travel-friendly colors starting at $40.  

Vagabond Hennie Platform Sandals 

With a chunky heel and adjustable ankle strap, these 90s-inspired Vagabond sandals are ideal for going from outdoor markets to late-night concerts. The cushioned footbed makes them comfortable enough for full days on your feet. They also pack down flatter than you’d think, and go with nearly everything in a neutral-toned wardrobe.

Shopping on a budget? These strappy Dream Pairs sandals deliver the same minimalist look with their mule-style profile for just $35.  

Lululemon High-rise Sports Shorts

These Lululemon bottoms look like upscale boxer shorts, but they’re built with movement in mind. The stretch satin-nylon fabric dries quickly, resists wrinkles, and feels cool against the skin—perfect for warmer travel days or layering over a swimsuit. With an elastic waist and wide leg openings, they’re equally suited to hikes, festivals, and lazy afternoons in the park.

Patagonia Sunny Tide One-piece Swimsuit

This Patagonia swimsuit has a clean, classic cut and is made from recycled nylon with added stretch, so it stays in place whether you’re swimming, cliff-jumping, or layering it under pants as a bodysuit. The scoop back and shelf bra offers support without wires, and it dries fast, especially handy if you’re hopping between sauna and sea.

Shopping on a budget? Cupshe’s top-rated square-neck one-piece delivers the same sporty coverage and comfort in 21 color options for just $39. 

Pander Fanny Pack

This compact belt bag fits the essentials—phone, wallet, sunglasses, maybe even a mini tube of SPF. It’s water-repellant, super lightweight, and comes in a range of bold and muted tones, but the softer options like beige and caramel brown will look more elevated than your average nylon fanny pack. Wear it crossbody while biking or around your waist for hands-free museum hopping.

Czdcb Puffer Tote Bag

If you want to upgrade your “nice dinner bag,” this structured, Y2K-style buckle bag is surprisingly roomy. The nylon is smooth but durable, and the shoulder strap can easily be worn crossbody style, giving you multiple carrying options. A sleek way to finish off a minimalist capsule, you can also consider this option from Kalda if you’re looking to invest in a popular Icelandic accessories label that every local in the know is talking about.

Rivbos Polarized Sunglasses

These polarized, ultralight sunglasses offer full UVA/UVB protection and stay put—even if you’re biking, boating, or hiking up a fjord. The adjustable nose pad and temple tips ensure a snug, customized fit. Plus, they look great with both sporty and city looks.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.