Dansk Dreaming

Actually, anything Scandinavian.

My niece Sarah just returned from a holiday in Europe. Much time was spent in Denmark where her partner Peer lives (in Copenhagen). Last weekend, Sarah gave me a guided tour of her purchases and I was really impressed. Now, Sarah is in her twenties and I am 42 but the cuts of many of the pieces she bought (I think) would cross the generations. Sarah has excellent taste so all of her choices are age-appropriate, chic and very modern.

If you are new to Scandinavian designers, I suggest you educate yourself. Many stores will only post within the EU but New Zealand Post's YouShop service can forward parcels sent to the UK on to New Zealand. Here's a quick introduction to some of the best Scandi high street labels:

Mads Nørgaard (Denmark)

Soft feminine silhouettes with a modern edge.

Tiger of Sweden

A little bit rock and roll.

Acne (Sweden)

What all the cool girls wear.

Rodebjer (Sweden)

Interesting plays on shape and form. Selected pieces available at TK Store in Auckland.

Samuji (Finland)

Quirky cool.

TK Store // Turet Knuefermann

Those of you unfamiliar with New Zealand designer Turet Knuefermann of TK Store are in for a treat. Knuefermann favours simple, clean Scandinavian designs. She even stocks gorgeous Swedish label Rodebjer. Think tshirt dresses, satin and silk tapered evening trousers, structured tops and flattering necklines. Pieces are affordable and are made in New Zealand. If you buy one piece, let it be the Perfect Shirt. I have it in black. It's both feminine and edgy and cut to follow your curves. Dress it up or down, this shirt will take you from day to evening. The fabric is crease-resistant, making it an ideal travelling garment.

TK Store is having an event this Thursday at their Ponsonby store from 6 - 8pm. Details at the end: