STYLE

Maybe you're the certified outdoorsy friend in your squad, or you're always suggesting that your fam go on a weekend hike for fun. Maybe you're the kind of person who can't leave the house without your Nalgene water bottle and your sturdiest shoes. Camping out under the stars is your idea of a dream vacation, and you're happiest when you're enjoying the fresh air. 

If this sounds like you (or if you loved embracing the granola girl aesthetic when it was trending), you've got to check out our guide to your new fave look: Gorpcore. The name may sound silly, but this practical-meets-cute fashion craze is the style of the season.  

Gorpcore, named after the phrase "Good Ol' Raisins and Peanuts" (a.k.a trail mix), combines oversized outerwear, bold hues and comfy athleisure. And let's face it: Staying both stylish *and* warm during the winter is always a struggle. Gorpcore is a fitting aesthetic for those who want to elevate their cold-weather fits but don't want to freeze their faces off.  

Ready to get your Gorp on? Here's your toolkit for making your wardrobe sporty, sensible and chic. 

1. Boxy silhouettes

@thenorthface

All hail the puffer coat! Gorpcore fashion centers on wider-fitting outerwear—think a jacket so voluminous, it could keep an Antarctic explorer warm. Baggy windbreakers and roomy hoodies are also Gorpcore trademarks and will keep you prepared for any cold weather conditions. Opt for pants that are cut straight-leg or flared instead of skinny jeans or leggings. The boxier, the better. 

2. Bright colors

@emmachamberlain

Gorpcore also offers the perfect solution for a mid-February style slump: bold, striking colors. Now's the time to brighten up your outfit by throwing on that sunny yellow fleece or that eye-catching red raincoat. If you're feeling shy about stepping out in full rainbow attire, grab a statement accessory (like a multicolored headband or striped gloves) for a pop of color. Extra points for earthy greens and cool, watery blues that match the hues of the nature around you.

3. Cinching and layering

@outdoorvoices​​​​​​

Garments that have drawstrings or that cinch at the hips or waist are *musts* for emulating the Gorpcore aesthetic. Plus, they're super convenient for quickly adjusting the fit of your clothes, depending on how you're feeling day-to-day. And layering, whether you're just sliding on your cutest vest before you walk out the door or totally bundling from the bottom up, is a staple of Gorpcore fashion.

4. Accessorizing for the outdoors

@emily.dupont

A Gorpcore look is never complete without a few key finishing touches: thick socks that peek out of your sneaks or boots, a cozy beanie and a functional-yet-cute fanny pack. Not to mention a huge water bottle to keep you hydrated on all your outdoorsy outings (remember: you can never have too many stickers). 

Gorpcore on a budget

@the_outercore

One unfortunate drawback of the Gorpcore aesthetic is that it can get pretty pricey. Down-filled jackets and fancy hiking shoes can cost a lot, and not everyone is able or willing to shell out the money for such expensive purchases. The good news? You can rock Gorpcore without breaking the bank. 

To make the style more affordable, consider hitting up your local thrift shop (or even your parents' closet—but be sure to ask first!). Many Gorpcore pieces have a retro feel to them, so buying secondhand can really help achieve that old-school athleisure ~vibe~. 

What's more? You def don't need to worry about brand names. A lot of online Gorpcore inspo heavily features branding, but our advice is to ditch the logos. At the end of the day, you shouldn't have to pay more just for a certain word to be printed on the front of your jacket.

Snap a pic of your Gorpcore fit and share it with us on Instagram @girlslifemag for a chance to be featured! 

Top image: @outdoorvoices
Slider image: @gorpgirls

by Madelon Basil | 2/27/2023