The Story Behind the Nordic Chic Book

I love Scandi style. I'm Finnish and have been surrounded by it my entire life. But while Scandinavian design is a globally recognized term, there is no single Nordic style.

In Sweden, they love the "Stockholm style": timeless cabled knits, light tones, luxurious materials and an "old money" take on everyday dressing. Denmark is known for its relaxed approach. For Finns, comfort comes first. We love our Marimekko prints, but above all we cherish understated simplicity: straight lines, uniform stripes and dark tones that never go out of style.

To me, Nordic Chic is all of this: a relaxed blend of the best parts of the modern North, chosen to suit the day and the mood. When I want to imagine myself in Stockholm's high-end district, I put on white cables. On easier days, I choose a simple striped sweater. For an evening out, I slip into angora shorts and a matching turtleneck.

The pieces are designed to be styled into complete outfits, and by swapping the yarn you get entirely different looks. A winter vest becomes a summer top, sporty shorts turn fluffy, and sweaters can be turned into dresses.

And because I am a knitter, I want to enjoy the process. Some days I want a challenge, other days the comfort of simple stockinette. For me, the reason to knit has never been just "the sweater." Knitting is how I untangle life and sort through my thoughts, or simply stop thinking.

The book includes knits for different skill levels. Experienced knitters get beautiful cables and something to sink their teeth into, while beginners can get going with easier knits. The idea, though, is that everyone can keep becoming a better knitter. That's what knitting is for me, too: a wonderful intellectual challenge and the joy of learning. And the result is a beautiful knit I actually want to wear.

Order the book here: Nordic Chic at Laine Publishing