The Danes have a word for the feeling you get on a winter evening, wrapped in a throw, a warm mug in your hands and candles lit: hygge. More than a decor trend, it's a way of living through the cold season by finding comfort in simple things. And the good news is that it's very easy to adopt.
In short
- Hygge is pronounced roughly "hoo-gah".
- It's a feeling of wellbeing, warmth and safety, often shared.
- It's built on soft light, comfort, simplicity and being present with others.
What exactly is hygge?
The word has no exact equivalent in English. It describes an atmosphere and a state of mind: feeling good, sheltered, surrounded, without pressure. In Denmark, where winter is long and dark, hygge is almost a collective strategy for living the season well rather than just enduring it.
It's sometimes confused with cocooning. The two are similar, but hygge puts more emphasis on sharing and togetherness, while cocooning is more about retreating comfortably at home. For a cosy evening of your own, our cosy night in ideas are a good starting point.
The key principles of hygge
Light
Candles, low lamps, warm dimmed light: this is the pillar of hygge. Avoid harsh white overhead lighting in favour of several small sources that create warm corners.
Comfort
Throws, big jumpers, wool socks, lined slippers: anything that wraps you up and warms you. Physical comfort is the condition for truly relaxing.
Simplicity
No need to spend money or reorganise everything. A slowly brewed coffee, a homemade cake, a walk in the cold followed by a hot drink: hygge lives in ordinary moments.
Presence
Fewer screens, more conversations. Hygge means being fully there, with yourself or with others.
Nature
Wood, wool, linen, branches, pine cones: natural materials and soft colours bring a sense of calm.
10 ideas to bring hygge into your home
- Create a reading nook by a window, with an armchair, a throw and a lamp.
- Light candles at dinner, even on a weeknight.
- Start a Sunday ritual: brunch, a walk, a film.
- Invite friends for a simple meal rather than a sophisticated dinner.
- Cook a soup or a slow-cooked dish that fills the house with its aroma.
- Keep soft slippers by the door to slip on when you get home.
- Take a phone-free break every evening.
- Go for a walk, even when it's cold, then come home to warm up.
- Add wood, wool and plants to the living room.
- Take time for a proper breakfast at the weekend.
Hygge starts with your feet
It's hard to feel good with frozen feet. It's no coincidence that slippers and thick socks are among the symbols of hygge. A lined, soft, easy-to-slip-on style, like the Bormio lined clog or the Merano slipper, quickly becomes the first thing you do when you get home.
Frequently asked questions
How do you pronounce hygge?
Roughly "hoo-gah", with a short, soft ending.
Is hygge only for winter?
No, but it's in winter that it really comes into its own. In summer, it's more about a picnic or an evening on the terrace.
Do you need to redecorate to embrace hygge?
Not at all. A few candles, a throw and a little time are more than enough.
Read also
- Cosy night in: our ideas for the perfect atmosphere
- Cold feet at home: 10 tips that really work
- What to give someone who's always cold?
For a softer winter, discover our lined vegan suede styles in our cold-season collection.
