My Take on Style of the Pacific Northwest
Written by Camryn Mahnken
Style varies anywhere you go. Though Sartorial is based out of the midwest, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing style while living in the Pacific Northwest of the U.S. this summer. Of course, some trends transcend location and will be prominent anywhere, but style leans a different way on the west coast than it does in Missouri. While living and working within Olympic National Park, my style adapted to fit the needs of my environment and the influences around me.
Living in a national park, I’ve seen a lot of outdoor-wear, but I’ve also seen wardrobes inspired by nature’s color palette. Blouses the color of evergreen trees, boots the color of conk mushrooms, linen pants the color of west coast sand. The mountains and rainforests serve equally as inspiration for day-to-day outfits. My own wardrobe has been impacted by neutral nature tones. I find myself most often in pale yellows, creams, greens, browns, and tans.
One of the trends that is as consistent here in Washington as it is back at home in Missouri is headpieces, from bandanas to scarves to hats. Hair scarves are currently having a moment, and this one has been a favorite of mine. You can wear it as a bandana, face mask, hair scarf, or an ascot, so it’s extremely versatile. Though mine is actually a topographic map of Olympic National Park, you can find ones with floral prints or any other pattern to get the same effect. They’re also great for wiping sweat while out hiking in the woods!
Living somewhere with beaches means straw hats are much more abundant than they are in the midwest. They shade your eyes from the sun and double as a summer fashion must. I purchased this one from Goodwill, but similar styles can be found here from MOSS, a local shop in Port Angeles, and here on Etsy.
Accessories can make a hell of a difference in any outfit. Mine have been very much inspired by the nature around me—from the map bandana to necklaces made of rocks that resemble pebbles I’ve found on Rialto Beach.
There is a noticeable difference in what drives people of the PNW in the way they dress; comfort and movability being one of them. When you’re backpacking, hiking, kayaking, and climbing you have to be comfortable in your clothing. Fabrics like linen and cotton are most common. People sport elastic waist bands, big pockets, and loose-fitting garments. Fabrics that are breathable and move with the body are crucial, and they’ve made me shed tight leggings in favor of slouchy-style joggers or palazzo pants.
These linen pants are thrifted, originally from the brand Indigo Rien, but similar styles can be found here from Roam Vintage, or here from Target.
Living in the Pacific Northwest has changed my style. I lean more easily toward earthy tones, comfortable fabrics, and pieces that I can go about my entire day in; whether that’s a 6 mile hike or an afternoon picnic. I’m taking this new attitude towards clothing with me as I return home, and letting my wardrobe always be a reminder of the summer -and the state- that influenced it.
