In Uniform: Style Advice from Copenhagen’s Christina Stougaard

Rip & Tan: How would you sum up your personal style? 

Christina Stougaard: I would describe my style as a blend of timeless elegance and contemporary wearability. Versatility is key for me. I always go for pieces that I can style more than one way. Even switching out one item can alter the vibe of the whole look.

Rip & Tan: What’s your approach to everyday dressing? Which pieces are most-worn in your weekday uniform?

Christina Stougaard: My approach to everyday dressing revolves around how I feel and what my day looks like. If I’m aiming for a comfortable look, I usually reach for a pair of oversized jeans, paired with a cozy knit or a short wool jacket. I like to complete a relaxed look with a pair of loafers and some jewelry to add a touch of sophistication.

Rip & Tan: Do you have a go-to special occasion outfit?

Christina Stougaard: I like to elevate my basic outfits with extra accessories and a pair of elegant boots or loafers. I prefer flats because I tend to do a lot of walking and they make me feel less restricted. I love that you can elevate or downplay an outfit by simply paying attention to the details.

Rip & Tan: What tips do you have for bringing an element of intrigue and excitement into a generally neutral look?

Christina Stougaard: To add an element of unpredictability, I focus on silhouettes, proportions, and accessories. Try adding bold silhouettes, such as oversized sleeves on a knit or shirt, to add a unique touch. Additionally, think about textures like pairing a crisp white shirt and wool trousers with a vintage leather jacket to create a visually appealing and well-balanced look.

Rip & Tan: What’s one outfit (that you haven’t worn before) that you can’t wait to style this fall?  

Christina Stougaard: I’m planning to purchase a pair of pointy or square-toed boots to add a unique and sophisticated touch to all my fall looks. I want to style them with jeans and an oversized knit.

Rip & Tan: Let’s talk accessories. What pieces are you wearing on a daily basis? 

Christina Stougaard: I always wear a belt as it adds that final touch, either in black or brown depending on the outfit. As for jewelry, I often wear a chunky silver necklace or a pair of small statement silver earrings.

Rip & Tan: Whether it’s something you’ve purchased or something passed down, do you have a favorite piece? 

Christina Stougaard: My favorite item in my wardrobe is my secondhand Loewe leather jacket from 2015 I got last year. The jacket features unique dolman sleeves and a stylish collar that effortlessly adds a touch of coolness to any outfit.

Rip & Tan: What are 3 things every woman needs in her closet this fall and winter?

Christina Stougaard: For fall and winter, I see these three items as must-haves: a comfortable cashmere knit in a neutral color. A long black or grey wool coat that not only keeps you warm but also adds a touch of luxury to any outfit. And a pair of high-quality boots—classic low-heel, chelsea, or western-inspired. Choose what you’ll wear for years. These pieces will create your base wardrobe and be easy to style with everything in your wardrobe.

Rip & Tan: What does style mean to you?

Christina Stougaard: To me, style is about curating a wardrobe that reflects my individuality, values, and how I want to present myself. Style is combining colors, textures, and silhouettes, creating a visual representation of my personality, and, most importantly, feeling comfortable and authentic in what I wear.