To say Scandinavian design is big in the fashion world right now is sort of like saying vampires are making a comeback. It’s an understatement, though after a while, you begin to see through the rash of pretenders and zero in on the names and talents that actually have the goods to last for more than a few moons.

Richard Hutchinson and Axel Nyhage (above photo, right) knew they had their work cut out for them when launching The Local Firm in 2007. So they started with the basics: slim-cut Italian-made denim and architectural, super-soft tees and tops. Then they added their distinct “Scandinavian” touch, honed from years working at Tiger of Sweden and Acne; the jeans were stripped and washed, then dyed in two-tone color blocks, while the baggy silhouette of the shirts and dresses draped perfectly under the clean, structured tailoring of the Firm’s blazers and jackets.

We caught up with Nyhage during his recent visit to New York to chat about his new collection and why he thinks Swedish design is so easy to wear — and love.

So nice to finally catch up with you Axel! We missed you when we were in Stockholm over the summer, but now you’re in New York. What’s the purpose of your trip here?
I strongly believe the U.S. will be a very important future market for TLF. One important way of showing our dedication is taking every opportunity to approach the market’s press and buyers personally to establish strong long-term relationships. This visit has been great and I’ve met with fashion magazine editors and bloggers like yourself and also with some key account buyers.

Tell us a little bit about The Local Firm’s new collection. You’ve introduced some dynamic shapes and unique colors not normally pictured together. What was the inspiration?
The core inspiration for our spring/summer 2010 collection is European East-Block aesthetics and the German Bauhaus movement. For the collection we added an “80s lab-assistant” touch for menswear and a “glamorous early 90s party-girl” feel for the ladies.

We’re big fans of The Local Firm’s eyewear collection, but you’re also known for your classic mens and womens wardrobe pieces. Is there a particular item that you think has become your “signature” piece or key item?
Yes, the jeans. TLF jeans have received a lot of attention, including receiving a “Denim Line of the Year” award by a Swedish men’s fashion magazine. We use an “unrefined” process and straightforward aesthetics in our designs, which are reflected in the fits, washes and fabrics.

Much has been made about the success of Swedish designers. Why do you think Swedish design and fashion labels are so popular around the world these days?
When it comes to Sweden, its design is about “wearability” and function, which makes it easy to love and also easy for consumers around the planet to adapt to his or her wardrobe and style.

How would you describe the “Local Firm aesthetic?”
A straightforward design with sharp edges and subtle details and colors.

How would you describe your personal aesthetic? What are your favorite labels to wear aside from your own?
I mainly find most of my inspiration in vintage clothing and in re-inventing classic garments. I’ve always been very interested in shape and color and for a long time thought I was going pursue a career as an architect, but at some point my interest got focused more on clothing and fashion.

What can we expect in 2010 from The Local Firm?
We’ll be showing the fall/winter 2010 collection in Stockholm in January and apart from that we’ll be launching the TLF shoe collection and broadening the eyewear collection. We’ve also got some design collaborations coming so stay tuned!

- TC