Scandinavia is annoyingly perfect. Most of its five countries place
Stockholm-born actor Alexander Skarsgård has also become a testament to the region’s quest for excellence, furthering the stereotype that all Swedes are blond, blue-eyed, tall, and unnaturally good looking. The True Blood star’s most sought-after quality, though? His style: He embodies the Scandi ethos that minimalism is king, shunning throwaway trends and logos in favor of timeless staples like wool peacoats, houndstooth blazers, and Chelsea boots.
We caught up with the man himself to uncover his effortless fashion secrets and how we can adopt them into our own lives.
Suited & Desert Booted
You normally associate Hollywood A-listers with the archetypal combo of tuxedo and dress shoes, but Alex feels more at home in a soft linen suit that sees him ditching the tie, teamed with a classic pair of desert boots.
Alex on suits:
“Comfort is very important to me. I just can’t wear it if I’m not comfortable. Style is about radiating confidence, so if you’re insecure, it shows. With this
On desert boots:
“I bought my first desert boots when I was a teenager and they were the most comfortable shoes ever. I think I gravitate toward originality and brands that go their own way, like Clarks. I’m allergic to trends and brands that feel derivative of another
Stereotypically Scandi
The simple gray marl roll-neck sweater and mahogany leather boots, the gothic structures in the background, the crisp blue sky—throw some meatballs into the mix and you’ve got the most Nordic image of all time.
On Scandi style:
“I’m a fan of minimalism, and when it comes to architecture, design, and fashion, Sweden keeps it minimalistic and very humble in a way that’s similar to the Japanese. When I go back home to Stockholm it’s shocking; I feel like I’m in a fashion show because everyone is so aware of how well put-together their outfits are.”
On winter menswear:
“I think there’s a lot more to play around with because of layering and the
Killer Combo
If you’re ever in two minds about what to wear at a smart-casual event, a blazer, tee, chino, and dress shoe is a failsafe ensemble that straddles the two themes with perfect balance.
On the importance of smart jackets:
“A great blazer is fantastic in your closet because you can combine it with sneakers, jeans, and a T-shirt and be super-casual. Throw on a blazer and it just elevates the whole look, but you still feel very comfortable... just slightly dressier.”
On the appearance of shoes:
“I like shoes when you can tell they’re worn; they look more comfortable and more like an extension of you. I almost think it looks a bit weird on the red carpets when everything’s shiny and brand new—I think it’s better when it’s worn and there’s a history behind the shoe. If you keep everything pristine and super-clean it just radiates doubt.”
Leather Report
A reliable pair of leather boots—preferably one with heritage detailing like brogue hole punches—should be a part of every man’s style arsenal. If they currently aren’t, you should, frankly, be ashamed of yourself. Luckily, Skarsgård is here to set you straight.
On the appeal of the brogue boot:
“These boots are incredibly light and comfortable to wear—they breathe but still keep you warm. So I think for autumn that kind of dark brown leather is definitely my go-to. I really love the boot’s tone with the dark jeans and vintage peacoat, which adds a bit of history and a story to the look.”
This story originally appeared on Esquire.com. Minor edits have been made by the Esquiremag.ph editors.
