• Fashion Clothing Collections

5 Men’s Swedish Clothing Brands You Should Know

Introduction

When we think of Sweden, the usual imagery comes to mind: meatballs, IKEA (the two usually go hand-in-hand), hot blondes and some of the priciest pints you’ll ever purchase.

However, playful stereotypes aside, the snowy region of north-west Europe is home to some of the most forward-thinking menswear brands to date. Whether it plays to the tune of Nordic ruggedness or minimalist efficiency, we’ve developed a list of five Swedish labels you should consider integrating into your wardrobe this season.

Besides Buzzfeed procrastination and mediocre cat memes, the internet is a beautiful thing that allows us to experience retailers outside of the high street. We’re all big fans of sourcing original threads here at FashionBeans, therefore, much like our previous breakdown of American brands, we have shunned the big names – you will see no H&M, Acne or Nudie Jeans here.

So read on and take inspiration from a country that gave us Vikings, “the best governance in the world” (thanks, The Economist) and the Ace of Base classic ‘All That She Wants‘. Seriously, Sweden knows its style.

Number 1: Tiger Of Sweden

You may struggle to find any animals of the exotic ilk up north, but you can most certainly channel a masculine roar with Tiger of Sweden.

Established in 1903 by two Swedish tailors, the brand underwent a reinvention in 1993 and has gone from strength to strength ever since. The label’s new, redefined ethos centres on their “jackets being able to be worn without a tie and with jeans” and taking “the suit out of the bank and into the street”.

It is clear from the quotes above that Tiger of Sweden wanted to change the perception of the suit – the result is a contemporary range of tailoring that features sharp, modern fits and can effortlessly transition from day to night.

Every single piece from this label has craftsmanship in abundance. Shunning wild patterns and fabrics, the quality of construction, attention to detail and precise cut provides all the statement you need.

Perfect for upcoming Christmas parties, Tiger of Sweden’s real strength lies in their range of suiting: classic and bold without overstepping the mark.

Renowned For: Classic Tailoring In Contemporary Cuts.

See More: Autumn/Winter 2012 Lookbook | Autumn/Winter 2013 Lookbook

Official Website: www.tigerofsweden.com

Example Lookbook

Key Pieces

Now much more than ‘just’ a tailoring brand, Tiger of Sweden continue to evolve and have expanded their range to include a variety of classic, refined wardrobe staples:

• Tiger Of Sweden Evert Checked Blazer
• Tiger Of Sweden Laurence Cable Knit Jumper
• Tiger Of Sweden Morello Wool Suit
• Tiger Of Sweden Hard Wool Coat
• Tiger Of Sweden Herris Slim-fit Turn-up Trousers
• Tiger Of Sweden Geometric Print Pocket Square
• Tiger Of Sweden Redding – Jumper – Blue
• Tiger Of Sweden Nedvin – Suit Jacket – Green
• Tiger Of Sweden Dempsey – Classic Coat – Grey
• Tiger Of Sweden Axcel – Jumper – Green
• Tiger Of Sweden Pryce – Summer Jacket – Black
• Tiger Of Sweden Baxter – Boots – Black

Number 2: J.Lindeberg

Founded in Stockholm, 1996 by the eponymous designer, J.Lindeberg turned the golfing fashion industry upside down with a stark innovative streak.

However, you don’t need a 9-iron and a caddy to enjoy this brand. J.Lindeberg aims to fuse the functionality of sportswear with contemporary style to create a range of modern wardrobe essentials. They were producing sports luxe apparel before the industry had even coined the term.

Sitting at a mid-price point, the label offer great value for money and provide everything you could possibly need to curate your very own capsule wardrobe. From beautifully crafted tailoring and knitwear to traditional golfing staples like the polo shirt, a focus on timeless colour ways and slim fits allows each piece to slot effortlessly into your current rotation.

The quest for the perfect autumn/winter coat is always problematic but that’s where this brand’s greatest strength lies. Key pieces include the classic Kev Peached Quilt Jacket and the Titus Leather Bomber, a seasonal favourite with a distinctly darker edge.

Renowned For: Outerwear and classic wardrobe staples.

See More: Spring/Summer 2013 Collection Review

Official Website: jlindeberg.com/

Example Lookbook

Key Pieces

• J.lindeberg Danil – Jumper – Grey
• J.lindeberg Chad 2.0 – Sweatshirt – Grey
• J Lindeberg Structured Jacket
• J.lindeberg Patrick – Suit Jacket – Grey
• J.lindeberg Light Jacket – Green
• J.lindeberg Dani Slim Fit – Shirt – Grey
• J.lindeberg Light Jacket – Olive
• J.lindeberg Sadler – Jumper – Grey
• J.lindeberg Chaze – Trousers – Grey
• J.lindeberg Samson – Cardigan – Blue
• J Lindeberg Double Breasted Wool Jacket
• J.lindeberg Chaze – Chinos – Blue

Number 3: Sandqvist

Ever since stumbling upon the bright yellow ‘Stig’ backpack, I knew Sandqvist were destined to become one of my favourite labels. Inclusion in our comprehensive list was a complete must – and not just because of personal inclination.

This stellar brand takes inspiration from Norwegian exploration and combines it with streamlined Swedish design. Features such as carefully selected and durable materials, minutely worked details and an everyday functionality are all close to the brand’s heart and ensures a range of stylish bags and accessories that are built to last.

This winter, a colourful design from Sandqvist will inject a welcome pop of colour into any ensemble, whether you are a holdall, tote or messenger kind of man. Their premium range has also recently branched out into iPad covers, wash bags and wallets, meaning there is something for every personal style and requirement.

FashionBeans favourites include the selection of on trend backpacks (currently featured on our autumn HOT LIST), along with the refined yet modern laptop sleeves, which are suitable for use both in and out of the office.

Pair any of their beautiful bags with slim-fit jeans, a navy overcoat and woollen beanie for a quintessential winter look.

Renowned For: Beautifully crafted bags and accessories.

See More: Spring/Summer 2013 Collection Review

Official Website: www.sandqvist.net

Example Lookbook

Key Pieces

• Sandqvist Lar Goran Backpack
• Sandqvist Osborn Canvas Duffle Bag In Navy
• Sandqvist Worker Tote Bag
• Sandqvist Vasuma Glasses Case In Tan
• Sandqvist Yellow Stig Canvas Backpack
• Sandqvist Ingo Canvas Barrel Bag In Navy
• Sandqvist Khaki Sinclair 15inch Laptop Sleeve
• Sandqvist Green Erik Messenger Bag
• Sandqvist Hans Backpack In Burgundy
• Sandqvist Helmer Leather Backpack
• Sandqvist Sinclair 13 Inch Macbook Sleeve In Navy
• Sandqvist Black Ove Leather Laptop Case

Number 4: Daniel Wellington

Every discernible gent needs a quality timepiece that outlasts fleeting fashions and trends. Daniel Wellington offer just that, and at an affordable price point no less.

Providing a single stripped-back design, with a simple choice of silver or rose gold face, the brand’s appeal and versatility stems from the range of straps available. Multi-coloured Nato styles can be effortlessly interchanged with classic leather versions, enabling you to alter the watch’s aesthetic to suit the occasion, your mood or outfit.

The watch face is the epitome of minimalism: slimline, round and featuring lines instead of traditional numbers, a discreet brand logo is the only other form of detailing you will find.

Now finally available to buy at selected UK retailers, the Bristol, Warwick and St. Andrews models are all sterling choices that come with the FashionBeans stamp of approval.

Renowned For: Timeless, minimal watches.

See More: Brand To Watch: Daniel Wellington | Daniel Wellington UK Launch

Official Website: www.danielwellington.com

Example Lookbook

Key Pieces

• Daniel Wellington Mens Nottingham Rose Multicolour Nato Strap Watch 0108dw
• Daniel Wellington Mens Sheffield Rose Black Leather Strap Watch 0107dw
• Daniel Wellington Mens Sheffield Silver Black Leather Strap Watch 0206dw
• Daniel Wellington Mens Cardiff Rose Brown Leather Strap Watch 0110dw
• Daniel Wellington Mens Classic Rose Gold Pvd Leather Strap Watch Brown Croc
• Daniel Wellington Mens Classic Stainless Steel Leather Strap Watch Tan
• Daniel Wellington Mens Glasgow Rose Blue And White Nato Strap Watch 0104dw
• Daniel Wellington Mens Exeter Silver Multicolour Nato Strap Watch 0212dw
• Daniel Wellington Mens Classic Rose Gold Pvd Nato Strap Watch  multi

Number 5: Uniforms For The Dedicated

Providing sharp threads for the informed dresser, Uniforms for the Dedicated have carved a strong reputation ever since 2007.

The brand is unique in that it consists of a collective of friends, artists, musicians and creatives, ensuring that the influences and inspirations behind each collection are completely unique.

Whilst providing luxury staples in the form of chinos, plain tees and knitwear, their real appeal owes thanks to innovative prints that don’t go overboard. Asymmetrical patterns and dulled kaleidoscope designs can add a brave on trend statement to any winter look, and everyone can pull it off with basic jeans and minimal accessories ? this is mature menswear for the playful dresser.

Dare to be different this season.

Renowned For: Innovative prints/patterns and premium basics.

Official Website: www.uniformsforthededicated.com

Example Lookbook

Key Pieces

• Uniforms For The Dedicated Melange Jumper
• Uniforms For The Dedicated Melange Blazer
• Uniforms For The Dedicated Techno Cotton Gabardine Parka
• Uniforms For The Dedicated T-shirt
• Uniforms For The Dedicated Techno Melange BouclÉ Jacket
• Uniforms For The Dedicated FumÉ Checked Linen Blend Shirt
• Uniforms For The Dedicated Melange Blazer
• Uniforms For The Dedicated Turmoil Shirt
• Uniforms For The Dedicated Shirt With Mini Cross Print
• Uniforms For The Dedicated Techno Melange Hemp Fleece Sweatshirt
• Uniforms For The Dedicated 19.5cm Techno Melange BouclÉ Trousers
• Uniforms For The Dedicated Trousers

Final Word

So there you have it, five Swedish brands to consider adding to your wardrobe. Such is the strength of their menswear market at the moment, there were plenty of labels we felt guilty about leaving out – so honourable mentions must go to the likes of Cheap Monday, Stutterheim Raincoats, Fjallraven, Elvine and Happy Socks.

Those seeking a loud and proud statement could learn a lot from typical Scandinavian style; silhouettes are simple, pieces aren’t over-thought and appeal lies in expert craftsmanship. A few strong garments are far better than hordes of cheap alternatives and hopefully we’ve broadened your sartorial horizons. Go Nordic and stay on point all-year round.

What do you think of our selection? Any others you would add? Let us know in the comments section below…

Murray Clark