Style expert and etiquette trainer Mirva Saukkola and costume designer Teemu Muurimäki comment on the lively etiquette of Linna’s parties and tell what is the most delightful sight on the red carpet.
Independence of Finland is celebrated on Wednesday with the Linna festivities. As usual, there will be spectacular costumes. What kind of outfits can be admired on the red carpet of the State Hall, what is the dress etiquette for the Independence Day reception and what should be thought about stretching it?
Style expert and fashion trainer Mirva Saukkola and costume designer Teemu Muurimäki answer these questions, among others Iltalehti editor Henna Kosteen in the interview.
Style experts Mirva Saukkola (right) and Teemu Muurimäki say that the label lives with the times. The interviewer is Henna Koste (center). Rosa Bröijer
Both Saukkola and Muurimäki find it gratifying that Finnish fashion can be seen at the country’s number one party.
– We have so many talented artists in Finland, for example the gentleman sitting next to me, Saukkola says, referring to Muurimäki.
– When we celebrate Finland’s independence, we also celebrate Finnish know-how and what Finns do. That’s why I think the most stylish choice of outfit is a Finnish suit, says Saukkola.
Muurimäki reflects on the role of Linna’s parties as a platform for Finnish fashion.
– It’s really great that Finland’s most prestigious celebration has become a celebration of Finnish fashion, know-how, handicrafts and costume sewing. People want to respect Finland’s independence by using Finnish designers, says Muurimäki.
Etiquette lives on
Experts point out that etiquette lives with the times. Muurimäki points out that, for example, the breakthrough of comfortable and functional sportswear into fashion over the past 10 years has been revolutionary. Fashion has changed enormously, and it is inevitably reflected in Linna’s celebrations as well.
Muurimäki says that individuality and the breaking of gender roles have had a positive effect on dressing.
She describes that it would be difficult to see that a person who does not feel comfortable in a skirt and high heels would have to wear them just because they are according to etiquette.
– It’s strange that you should wear a certain kind of clothing that goes against your identity, says Muurimäki.
– We go to the castle as the best version of ourselves. That dress code doesn’t mean dressing up in fancy dress and being a different person than you really are. You dress dignified and stylish to the castle, but according to who you are, Saukkola says.
Which outfit has Muurimäki received the most feedback on? What has been the craziest moment on the red carpet at the Linna party? Does the label consider other genders? Watch the full interview in the video above.
Mirva Saukkola and Teemu Muurimäki emphasize that you go to Linna as the best version of yourself. Rosa Bröijer