How Indian Celebrities Are Embracing Scandinavian Style

A noticeable shift has occurred in recent years in the fashion choices of Indian celebrities. Moving away from ornate and heavily embellished ensembles, many are now gravitating towards the minimalist characteristics of Scandinavian design. This fusion of Indian vibrancy with Nordic simplicity has given rise to a unique style narrative. Prominent figures like Deepika Padukone, Alia Bhatt and Sonam Kapoor have been spotted wearing ensembles from Scandinavian fashion houses or embracing the Scandi-inspired neutral-toned look. For example, Deepika was seen wearing a tailored, muted-toned outfit by Swedish label H&M at a major event in Mumbai, which blended perfectly with her chic and understated aesthetic. Similarly, Sonam Kapoor has often been photographed in Scandinavian-inspired outfits by designers such as Totême and Acne Studios, favouring neutral hues, oversized cuts and sustainable materials.

Scandinavian principles of slow fashion and ethical production also align well with the growing sustainability movement in India’s fashion scene. This is seen in collaborations such as the one between Swedish fast fashion giant H&M and Indian designers like Sabyasachi, which brought together the best of both Scandinavian minimalism and Indian craftsmanship. The use of organic fabrics and timeless designs in these collections resonates with India's growing demand for sustainable fashion choices. Furthermore, Alia Bhatt has been vocal about her support for eco-conscious brands, often opting for Scandinavian brands that prioritize ethical practices in their production processes.

This cultural convergence not only reflects evolving aesthetic preferences but also highlights a deeper global shift toward conscious consumerism. As a result, Scandinavian style is no longer confined to the Nordic region. It is being reinterpreted and reimagined through the lens of Indian fashion icons. With digital platforms and fashion collaborations bridging continents, this trend shows no signs of slowing down.

Scandinavian Minimalism

Scandinavian fashion is renowned for its clean lines, neutral palettes and emphasis on functionality. These design principles prioritize simplicity without sacrificing style, resulting in timeless, versatile pieces that transcend seasons and trends. Brands like H&M, Lindex and Totême have become icons of this minimalist ethos, offering clothing that blends comfort with sophistication. This understated aesthetic appeals to those who favor subtle elegance over loud, trend-driven styles. Whether it’s a sharply tailored coat, a classic knit or a refined dress, Scandinavian fashion resonates with individuals seeking effortless chic.

The timeless appeal of these designs has made Scandinavian fashion a favorite among global celebrities. Even Indian Bollywood stars who are traditionally known for bold, ornate looks have embraced this refined style. What makes this shift even more compelling is how Scandinavian minimalism is influencing broader cultural movements. As awareness around sustainability grows, so does the appeal of fashion rooted in durability and ethical production. Scandinavian designers often use eco-friendly materials and prioritize craftsmanship, reinforcing the principles of "slow fashion" which is a movement encouraging conscious consumption. Bollywood icons and influencers, in turn, are using their platforms to highlight brands aligned with these values, promoting sustainability without compromising on style.

This global embrace of minimalist aesthetics also reflects wider lifestyle changes. Today’s consumers seek experiences that integrate fashion, leisure and personal expression. As they explore international styles online, many are also drawn to global entertainment whether it’s binge-watching Nordic dramas on Netflix, streaming music on Spotify, or exploring leisure options like gaming platforms where they can bet on sites without license. These activities represent a broader curiosity about global culture, fuelled by digital accessibility. Digital platforms are reshaping how people engage with both fashion and entertainment, creating a seamless cultural exchange across borders. Just as Scandinavian fashion influences Indian wardrobes, global digital trends like online betting and cross-cultural content are redefining how people experience leisure.

This fusion of fashion, technology and entertainment points to a lifestyle that is increasingly global, diverse and connected. Rather than seeing fashion, leisure and entertainment as separate domains, today's audiences are blending them into a cohesive lifestyle.

Indian Celebrities Adopting Nordic Aesthetics

Deepika Padukone has often been seen in ensembles that reflect Scandinavian minimalism. Her preference for structured silhouettes and understated accessories aligns seamlessly with Nordic design principles. Collaborations with brands like H&M have further cemented her association with this aesthetic. During her appearances at the Cannes Film Festival, she frequently chose neutral palettes, clean-cut gowns and minimal makeup which are the hallmarks of Scandinavian fashion.

In 2023, she was seen wearing a tailored Totême blazer paired with high-waisted trousers for a press event, embodying quiet luxury with Nordic restraint. On Instagram, she has shared glimpses of her off-duty style featuring oversized knits, loafers, and crossbody leather bags. These are the fashion items popular in Swedish streetwear. Even her airport looks, once dominated by oversized sunglasses and statement prints, now lean towards sleek, functional designs with monochrome layering. Padukone’s sartorial evolution showcases how Scandinavian fashion complements her natural elegance while allowing room for subtle individuality.

Ranveer Singh, who is traditionally recognized for his flamboyant fashion choices, has recently showcased a more subdued style. Embracing monochromatic outfits and streamlined designs, Singh's evolving fashion sense mirrors the minimalist trends prevalent in Scandinavian fashion circles. During the promotions of his film Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, he was seen wearing tailored beige suits and muted-toned jackets, a stark departure from his earlier eclectic looks. At the 2023 Red Sea International Film Festival, he opted for a classic black turtleneck and a structured overcoat.

He has also been spotted wearing brands like Acne Studios and COS, both of which are rooted in Scandinavian minimalism. Even his street style now often includes slim-fit trousers, neutral layering and minimalist sneakers, signalling a clear shift towards simplicity and sophistication. Fashion commentators have praised this transformation as a sign of Singh’s growing versatility and alignment with global fashion movements

Another popular star with Nordic aesthetics is Sonam Kapoor who has consistently pushed the boundaries of style. Her collaborations with designers who blend Indian craftsmanship with Scandinavian simplicity highlight her appreciation for cross-cultural fashion narratives. She has been spotted wearing pieces from Swedish label Filippa K, known for its clean silhouettes and minimalist ethos, often pairing them with Indian accessories like jhumkas or handcrafted clutches. At the 2023 Paris Fashion Week, she wore an oversized ivory trench coat with sleek tailoring and minimal detailing, a nod to Nordic aesthetics, layered over a handwoven Indian saree blouse.

In editorial shoots, Kapoor frequently experiments with contemporary Scandinavian brands such as House of Dagmar and Arket, combining their structured pieces with traditional Indian jewellery to create a globally inspired look. Her wedding wardrobe also featured outfits that balanced ornate Indian textiles with muted tones and minimalist cuts. On social media, Sonam often shares fashion-forward looks styled with earthy tones, relaxed silhouettes and sustainable fabrics. This thoughtful blend reflects her keen understanding of fashion as both an art form and a dialogue between cultures.

Fashion Events Bridging the Indian and Scandinavian Style

In 2019, the "Swedish Style Mumbai" event served as a platform to showcase Swedish design and foster collaboration between Indian and Swedish creatives. The event featured fashion shows, panel discussions and exhibitions, emphasizing sustainable and minimalist design philosophies. Such initiatives have played a pivotal role in introducing Scandinavian aesthetics to the Indian fashion landscape. Renowned Swedish brands like Nudie Jeans and Filippa K were showcased alongside Indian designers such as Payal Khandwala, highlighting the synergy between clean Nordic lines and vibrant Indian textiles. Workshops on circular fashion and textile innovation sparked dialogue between industry leaders from both nations, reinforcing the shared value of sustainability.

Notably, Bollywood celebrities including Radhika Apte and Kalki Koechlin attended the event, both known for their appreciation of minimalist fashion. Their presence drew media attention and emphasized the growing relevance of Nordic style within Indian pop culture. The event also included pop-ups and interactive exhibits curated by the Swedish Institute, drawing thousands of attendees over several days. This fusion of fashion and cultural diplomacy has paved the way for more Indo-Scandinavian collaborations across design, textiles and sustainable innovation. As a result, “Swedish Style Mumbai” has become a blueprint for future events seeking to bridge fashion worlds through shared values and creativity.

Celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations between India and Sweden, the "Fashion Forever" show in 2023 spotlighted sustainable fashion. Curated by Sunil Sethi, Chairman of the Fashion Design Council of India, the event featured collections from both Indian and Swedish designers, emphasizing eco-friendly materials and circular fashion practices. Notable Indian designers such as Rahul Mishra and Anavila showcased pieces crafted from organic cotton and handwoven fabrics, while Swedish labels like House of Dagmar and Rave Review presented upcycled garments and minimalist silhouettes. The show highlighted the synergy between India's artisanal heritage and Sweden’s forward-thinking approach to sustainability.

Celebrity attendees included Bhumi Pednekar and Dia Mirza, both vocal advocates for eco-conscious living, lending star power to the event’s message. A panel discussion featuring Swedish Ambassador Jan Thesleff and Indian designer Anita Dongre emphasized the role of fashion in driving cross-cultural environmental advocacy. Additionally, student designers from NIFT (India) and Beckmans College of Design (Sweden) collaborated on capsule collections, offering a fresh, youthful take on Indo-Scandinavian fusion. The event received widespread media coverage in both countries and was livestreamed on platforms like Instagram and YouTube. 

Designers Merging Indian and Scandinavian Styles

Renowned for his intricate, tradition-rooted designs, Sabyasachi Mukherjee has effectively explored the intersection of Indian craftsmanship and Western minimalism. His 2021 collaboration with H&M exemplified this fusion, blending Indian motifs with Scandinavian simplicity through breezy silhouettes, earthy tones, and subtle embroidery. Items like flowy kaftans and printed co-ord sets sold out quickly in cities such as Stockholm and Mumbai, proving the collection’s cross-cultural appeal. Shot in Jaipur with Scandinavian-inspired visuals, the campaign highlighted the fusion through structured handbags, muted-tone footwear, and signature Indian textiles. This collaboration showcased how traditional Indian design could evolve into globally relevant, minimalist fashion.

Raghavendra Rathore brings a similar sensibility to his structured silhouettes and muted palettes, which closely mirror Nordic design values. His tailored fits, use of natural fabrics like linen and silk, and restrained embellishments create a balance between Indian heritage and Scandinavian function. Collections such as his “Jodhpur” line pair royal Indian aesthetics with clean, modern tailoring. A recent collaboration with Sweden’s Nudie Jeans further fused rugged denim with intricate Indian embroidery, representing a unique cultural blend. Rathore’s work often appears on international runways and in fashion campaigns featuring Scandinavian models in Indian garments, reinforcing his commitment to sustainable, global fashion storytelling.

Anamika Khanna, known for her avant-garde draping and structured silhouettes, reinterprets Indian classics like the saree through a Scandinavian lens. Her “Urban Saree” collection uses muted tones—beige, grey, off-white—and clean lines to create contemporary pieces with traditional roots. Khanna’s focus on sustainable fabrics like organic cotton and bamboo aligns her with eco-conscious Nordic values. Collaborations with international labels such as Filippa K have brought her work to global audiences. Her designs combine tailored elements with fluid textures, often showcased in fashion shows across cities like Stockholm, where Nordic models highlight the Indo-Scandinavian fusion on the runway.

Final Thoughts

The integration of Scandinavian design into Indian fashion reflects a broader shift toward sustainability, functionality and timeless style. Indian celebrities are not only redefining their personal aesthetics by embracing Nordic minimalism but are also shaping wider fashion trends across the country. Designers such as Anita Dongre and Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla have begun incorporating minimalist principles mirroring the eco-conscious ethos of Scandinavian fashion.

Events like Lakmé Fashion Week increasingly showcase collections inspired by Nordic design values, highlighting a fusion of Indian craftsmanship with global sustainability trends. This movement has resonated with Indian consumers, who are becoming more environmentally aware and seeking fashion choices that reflect their values. The growing demand for locally produced, eco-friendly brands and international labels with a sustainability focus underscores this shift. Additionally, the rise of athleisure and functional wear which are hallmarks of Scandinavian minimalism has gained popularity in India. Brands like Puma India and Adidas are launching clean, functional lines tailored to Indian consumers’ evolving tastes.

This confluence of Indian vibrancy and Scandinavian restraint is shaping a refreshing new fashion narrative. As Indian designers and celebrities continue to adopt Nordic design sensibilities, they’re paving the way for a more inclusive, global fashion landscape. Collaborations such as Sabyasachi's partnership with H&M demonstrate how traditional Indian textiles like khadi, silk and handloom can be reimagined through minimalist design.

Beyond fashion, brands like IKEA emblematic of Scandinavian design have found success in India by offering products that merge Nordic functionality with local sensibilities. These cross-cultural exchanges are not only enriching the fashion and retail sectors but are also fostering more meaningful, sustainable practices across industries.

Fashion weeks around the world, including Paris Fashion Week, are increasingly spotlighting Indian influences within globally inspired collections. This cultural blending signals more than a passing trend, it reflects a long-term shift toward eco-conscious, globally connected design thinking. As Indian and Scandinavian designers continue to collaborate, fashion stands poised to become a powerful medium for social impact, environmental awareness, and creative innovation.

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