YPStyle: Johanna Mikkola

Johanna Mikkola finds fashion inspiration almost everywhere: on the streets of her hometown of Helsinki, when travelling in general and, perhaps surprisingly, through men’s fashion as well. Here’s why she caught our eye…

Where do you get your style inspiration?
I really enjoy The SartorialistFFFFound and Rookie Mag since it launched. That said, I am most inspired when travelling. During the year I usually make a few trips back home to Helsinki, Finland. When I’m there I definitely keep an eye out for the latest Scandinavian trends and try to pick up a few staple items. Also, working in a male-dominated industry, I tend to be drawn to men’s fashion so I keep an eye on what the guys are wearing as much as the ladies. 

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Who is your favourite designer at the moment and why?
Continuing with the Scandinavian theme, I really love the design teams at Acne Studios and Tiger of Sweden. It’s classic, minimalist design with a bit of edge. For example, black dress pants with zippers on the bottom of the inseam or wool blazers with leather sleeves. I like the subtle surprises that make it different, and nothing beats a pair of Acne jeans. 

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What are some of your staple, go to pieces? 
I usually never leave the house without a big, colourful scarf, my Kalevala chain bracelet and grey Oakley frogskin sunglasses. Scarves make any outfit fashionable and fun.  

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What is one fashion trend that you never want to see again?
I think anything can be made to look good if rocked the right way, but if I have to name something, I am not a fan of the women’s collared shirts buttoned all the way to the top or high heel sandals with socks.

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What fashion trend do you predict to be big in 2013?
I think leather is going to remain key, especially when mixed with other fabrics and added as an accent. I am also biased to supporting the boyish fashion trends of oversized tees with blazers and women’s wingtip shoes.