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Wondering what to wear in Denmark? Use these tips to plan your travel wardrobe for Copenhagen!
What to Wear in Denmark
Written By: Niki Landry
The first thing you will notice upon arriving in Copenhagen (aside from all of the bicycles) is the effortless style of the locals. They have refined “casual” down to a science, and the whole city is in on the secret.
If you are planning a trip to the Danish capital–which you should, because it is my favorite city–then the tips below will help guide you in how to dress in Copenhagen. Also, read this post to find a Copenhagen packing list any time of year!
Colors
It’s easy to blend in with the native Danes if you know which colors to pack for your trip. Everyone is in some form of black, gray, or white. Or navy, if they are feeling adventurous.
This is, of course, an oversimplification, but you will notice an overwhelming sea of dark neutral colors during your trip. This is great news for your capsule wardrobe.
If this palette seems a little too boring for you, incorporate some patterns into your packing list or bring along a few other neutral-feeling shades: olive, burgundy, champagne, or pale blue.
Here are some tips on how to spruce up dull all-black outfits!
Shoes
Hayzee | Perforated | Flyknit
Black ankle boots and black sneakers are all you need for your Copenhagen holiday. Find out why everyone loves ankle boots for Europe in Spring and Autumn!
Even in the summer, you can probably get away with only these two pairs. The weather can change drastically during the day, so even a sunny day can turn overcast quickly.
Streamlined and simple flat shoes, even for going out, are appropriate. Flat is key when it comes to footwear. The city is easily walkable and you won’t see many (if any) heels during your stay.
Find out how to choose the best travel shoes!
Bottoms
It should come as no surprise that black skinny jeans are the bottoms of choice. Gray or classic blue denim will both work in lieu of black.
If you’re traveling during warmer months and are packing any dresses or skirts, then a pair of neutral tights should go into your bag as well. Unpredictable weather and chilly nights leave very few occasions to have your legs exposed, but it doesn’t hurt to be ready for both. This is an easy styling solution to wear dresses during cooler weather!
To pack light for Europe in winter, pack a set of thermal underwear for women!
Biking
Cycling is a way of life and the favorite mode of transport for Danes, and it seems to influence the way they dress. Loose-fitting garments that facilitate easy movement, casual shoes, and practical bags and backpacks all work to complete a refined but casual outfit.
Comfort is the goal, but not at the expense of style. It’s normal to see a girl pedaling away in a midi skirt and sneakers. Be sure to follow suit during your visit.
Add one of these cute backpacks to your Copenhagen packing list!
Makeup
Similar to fashion, makeup choices tend to be more restrained, with an emphasis on a neutral and natural looking palette. This doesn’t mean that everyone goes makeup free–quite the contrary.
Define and highlight your natural features in a subtle way. If you want to amp up your look in the evening, a bolder eyeliner or darker lip will do the trick. I’m partial to a simple retro cat-eye swoop with my upper eyeliner for evenings out.
Blending in with the locals is often a smart idea when traveling. Sometimes it’s a matter of safety. Other times, like in Denmark, it’s fun to blend in so you can observe and people-watch unseen. Plus, you will look great while doing it.
The key to packing light is to use packing cubes to compress your clothing shown in this video!
What are your tips on what to wear in Denmark? Share in the comments!
Please note: Most of Europe’s budget airlines have this carryon bag allowance: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airlines individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.
For more tips, please read these Europe packing lists:
- Athens
- Amsterdam
- Budapest
- Copenhagen
- Cologne
- Dublin
- Edinburgh
- Estonia
- Italy
- London
- Lithuania
- Paris
- Rome
- Spain
- Zurich
Suggested travel resources:
- Lonely Planet Europe on a shoestring
- Lonely Planet Denmark (Country Guide)
- Travel Shoes for Europe
- The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe
Please read our Ultimate Packing List for Europe featuring stylish outfits and travel tips for 9 countries.
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Author Bio: Niki is an interior designer and artist from Louisiana. In addition to her design work, she writes for local and online publications sharing her experiences and passion for travel. Niki is currently adding stamps to her passport while building her design practice, Niki Landry Designs.
Thanks for the tips. Heading there soon!
Thanks for the info. Heading to Denmark soon!
Any tips for late June into early July?
Hi Cassie, thank you for reaching out. You might find this article helpful for tips for packing for Copenhagen for the summer: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-europe-copenhagen/ I would recommend that you join TFG’s free facebook community and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It is a fabulous group of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and recommendations to share. Hope this helps. Have an amazing time! ?
I was in Copenhagen in late May/early June and the weather was perfect! I mostly wore pants with boots or Converse, and layered tops and sweaters with a light jacket. I did bring a skater skirt which I wore one day with tights but it was too windy to be comfortable in it. I definitely suggest wearing pants over skirts or dresses.
Thanks for the tip Danielle!
Copenhagen is so nice!
I love it too! Thanks for reading Lisa!