Wear to explore

Fashion and function haven’t always been one of the same. In fact, they continue to pull people in opposite directions. As the rise of athleisure blossomed in the ‘90’s, the perception of fashion became less about “beauty is pain” and more about “beauty is comfort.” This came as a shock to the fashion world. Functionality was coveted like never before. Fashion was no longer solely about vision, but rather the longevity, the functionality, and the materiality of these high quality pieces. This was followed in the 2000’s with tracksuits and tank tops on the daily. And now, this idea of comfort has been translated to sneakers, oversized items, and winter coats. With streetstyle at an all time high, in both popularity and pricing, people have never wanted something so hard to attain. What was the solution to this boiling frustration of a long-lasting fad that was so strongly desired?  Good Old Raisins & Peanuts (GORPcore): an acronym referring to trailmix and the culture behind hiking and outdoor living.

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In the past 10 years, most people have been informed on the benefits of elevated basics, sustainable brands, thrift shopping, and investing in clothing that is meant to last. What better way to foster this concept than living it? Gorpcore is meant to be expressed – not only through clothing, but through exploring. Fashion is experimental, so that individuals can learn to develop meaningful understandings of clothing. As celebrities started to tap into this and enhance their relatability, the people followed. Clothing is being promoted through highlighting its potential and practicality within such a competitive society. Arguably one of the most iconic photos of all time: A$AP Rocky alongside Rhianna as she reveals her baby bump to the public. What was A$AP Rocky wearing in that exact photo, you may ask? A Carhartt canvas jacket. This jacket is now seen as a staple item for many. The influence a single article of clothing can have on an audience, a brand, and a lifestyle with the help of technology and social media is why Gorpcore is thriving now more than ever.

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Brands like Carhartt, Arc'teryx, Dickies, Tevas, Supreme, and The North Face have allowed Gorpcore to become an innovative and new genre of style by remaining true to their identity. These brands favor function over visual appeal, a complete contrast to what fashion has typically been viewed as. Letting the idea of Gorpcore express how these clothes are interpreted in their truest form and how they evolve with those interpretations. Having a garment that is self-explanatory and letting the owner use it in a way that can express their idea of fashion meeting function. These brands have fueled a rise in competition as to which brand can walk the fine line of entertaining street style culture, while maintaining their mission as a brand. Since 2007, Supreme and The North Face have been working together, creating collections that maximize the adventurous potential of both brand personas. This is a revolutionary collab because it has not only stayed relevant for decades, but has merged one of the largest street style brands with outdoors wear that is known and loved. Is this where Gorpcore was born? Is this something that has managed to uphold relevancy, but only now coveted because of the pressure fueled by the media? For years, Dickies were only known for their durability in a blue collar workplace, now they are the staple for any skater scaling the West Coast. Gorpcore is encapsulated by trends that seem to stick forever, clothing that seems to never fall apart, and love for pieces that seem to only grow fonder. These brands are only a few of many that have subconsciously gained credibility in the fashion universe due to the long-term trust they have built with consumers. This is the real recipe to that perfect trail mix that is Gorpcore.

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With articles of clothing like: rain pants, ski jackets, hiking boots, wool sweaters, and fleece vests, it doesn’t matter what the newest, hottest item is. What matters is the consistency among using items that stay true to what they are made for, while artistically playing with the people styling these clothes. Allowing creativity to blossom within the individual, rather than the individual item. The mixing and matching of trusted materials are what allow Gorpcore to be seen as fluid and adaptable. Dickies, a classic industrial wear brand, has partnered with the street style brand Opening Ceremony to make a line of bright-colored Dickies items. This is something that has taken the comfort and durability of a long-loved brand and used its power to foster the creative direction of a brand focused on trends and fashionable risks. Gorpcore is something that encourages the power to meet in the middle, find balance between two extremes, and elevate the appeal of existing items. Nature lovers with an artistic eye? That’s Gorpcore in the flesh. Someone who can appreciate the functionality of day-to-day life in ways that introduce a personalized element. From Bend, Oregon to New York, New York, people from coast to coast are finding ways to style Gorpcore. In a serene mountain town to a bustling city, Gorpcore can find its way to anyone.

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The big question to ask is whether Gorpcore is just a trend, or is this the staple that continues to draw people in? As far as the success of brand collaborations, celebrity traction, and engagement from the public, it doesn’t look like Gorpcore is going anywhere. The negative chaos of fast fashion and unethically made clothing is proving why Gorpcore is a step in a better direction. Refamiliarizing the cliché of quality over quantity has allowed Gorpcore to gain the respect of countless individuals when establishing long-term closets. A fashion trend that turns lifestyle is here to promote the soul-searching, adventure-seeking culture that must be enhanced to appreciate the beauty of one’s surroundings and the courage to experience new things. Gorpcore is here to enhance. Gorpcore is here to stay.