SCANDINAVIAN LIFESTYLE

A WAY OF LIFE

Here, we are inspired by nature. We believe form follows function. We strive for elegant simplicity and timeless style. For us, beauty comes not from decoration, but from purposeful elements: material, shape, color and the experience itself. At ECCO we apply this thinking to shoes. We use rich, supple and resilient leathers. We create classic shapes that outlast fashion and we consistently find ways to make our shoes softer, more flexible, and more capable of following the foot. We gravitate toward design that fuses utility with beauty. This is also how we try to live. We believe in pursuing every aspect of living with equal passion; work, love, family, creativity and friendship. Every day is another story.

WHAT IS SCANDINAVIA?

"Scandinavia" refers to Denmark, Sweden and Norway and the idea that these countries are united not only by geography, but also by common values. Every aspect of urban life exudes freedom and a relaxed, peaceful lifestyle. Family life is based on the best family programs in the world; offering easy access to childcare and thus gender equality. However, nature is never far away from urban life. The term became popular after its use in 19th century poetry. Most famously, the Danish poet and writer of fairy tales, Hans Christian Andersen, wrote "I am Scandinavian", after a visit to Sweden led him to become an early supporter of Scandinavianism. "All at once," wrote Andersen, "I understood how related the Swedes, the Danes and the Norwegians are...We are one people, we are called Scandinavians!"

WHO ARE SCANDINAVIANS?

There are about twenty million Scandinavians; 5.5 million in Denmark, 9.3 million in Sweden and 4.6 million in Norway. In addition to Hans Christian Anderson, other famous Scandinavians include actor, Viggo Mortensen, model, Helena Christensen, pop group, ABBA, and Alfred Nobel, founder of the Nobel Prize. Globally recognized Scandinavian brands include Ikea, LEGO, Bang & Olufsen, Saab and Volvo. Famous tourist attractions include Tivoli and the little mermaid in Denmark, the Norwegian fjords and snowy mountain landscapes and Sweden's archipelago.