The East Coast of the United States is a melting pot of cultures and styles, from the preppy New Englanders to the bohemian Brooklynites. As a result, East Coast fashion is as diverse as the region itself. But there are some common threads that run through all of it, from the classic menswear of Wall Street to the trendy streetwear of Williamsburg.
Preppy Style
Preppy style is often associated with the upper-class suburbs of New England. It is characterized by its clean lines, tailored fits, and bright colors. Preppy staples include button-down shirts, khakis, boat shoes, and blazers.
Bohemian Style
Bohemian style is the opposite of preppy. It is characterized by its loose, flowing silhouettes, natural fabrics, and ethnic prints. Bohemian staples include peasant blouses, maxi skirts, sandals, and wide-brimmed hats.
Streetwear
Streetwear is a relatively new style that has its roots in hip-hop culture. It is characterized by its oversized silhouettes, bold graphics, and athleticwear-inspired pieces. Streetwear staples include hoodies, sweatpants, sneakers, and baseball caps.
Athleisure
Athleisure is a hybrid of athletic wear and streetwear. It is characterized by its comfortable, sporty pieces that can be worn both in the gym and out. Athleisure staples include tracksuits, leggings, yoga pants, and sports bras.
Business Casual
Business casual is a more relaxed version of traditional business attire. It is characterized by its comfortable, yet polished pieces that can be worn in a variety of settings, from the office to the happy hour. Business casual staples include dress pants, button-down shirts, sweaters, and flats.
Black Tie
Black tie is the most formal dress code. It is characterized by its floor-length gowns for women and tuxedos for men. Black tie is typically worn to special events, such as weddings and galas.
How to Dress Like an East Coaster
The best way to dress like an East Coaster is to mix and match different styles to create your own unique look. Start by choosing a base outfit, such as a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. Then, add on layers, such as a scarf, a jacket, or a hat. Finally, accessorize with jewelry, a watch, and a handbag.
Tips for Dressing Like an East Coaster
- Dress for the weather. The East Coast has a wide range of climates, from the cold winters of New England to the hot summers of the Mid-Atlantic. Be sure to dress appropriately for the season.
- Accessorize. Accessories can make or break an outfit. Add a scarf, a hat, or a piece of jewelry to complete your look.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. East Coast fashion is all about mixing and matching different styles. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different trends and find your own unique look.
- Be confident. The most important thing is to be confident in your outfit. If you feel good about what you’re wearing, it will show.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Dressing too formally. East Coast fashion is generally more relaxed than formal. Avoid wearing a tuxedo or a floor-length gown to a casual event.
- Dressing too casually. While East Coast fashion is relaxed, it’s still important to put some effort into your outfit. Avoid wearing sweatpants or a t-shirt to a more formal event.
- Over-accessorizing. Accessorizing can be a great way to complete an outfit, but it’s important not to overdo it. Too many accessories can make you look cluttered and unkempt.
- Not dressing for the weather. The East Coast has a wide range of climates, from the cold winters of New England to the hot summers of the Mid-Atlantic. Be sure to dress appropriately for the season.
How to Dress Like an East Coaster on a Budget
Dressing like an East Coaster doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are a few tips for dressing on a budget:
- Shop at thrift stores. Thrift stores are a great place to find gently used clothing at a fraction of the cost of new clothing.
- Buy classic pieces. Classic pieces, such as a pair of jeans, a t-shirt, and a blazer, will never go out of style. Invest in a few classic pieces that you can wear for years to come.
- Accessorize. Accessories can make a big difference in an outfit, and they don’t have to be expensive. Add a scarf, a hat, or a piece of jewelry to complete your look.
- Shop sales. Many stores offer sales throughout the year. Take advantage of sales to save money on your wardrobe.
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between preppy and bohemian style?
A: Preppy style is characterized by its clean lines, tailored fits, and bright colors, while bohemian style is characterized by its loose, flowing silhouettes, natural fabrics, and ethnic prints.
Q: What is streetwear?
A: Streetwear is a relatively new style that has its roots in hip-hop culture. It is characterized by its oversized silhouettes, bold graphics, and athleticwear-inspired pieces.
Q: What is athleisure?
A: Athleisure is a hybrid of athletic wear and streetwear. It is characterized by its comfortable, sporty pieces that can be worn both in the gym and out.
Q: What is business casual?
A: Business casual is a more relaxed version of traditional business attire. It is characterized by its comfortable, yet polished pieces that can be worn in a variety of settings, from the office to the happy hour.
Q: What is black tie?
A: Black tie is the most formal dress code. It is characterized by its floor-length gowns for women and tuxedos for men.
Conclusion
East Coast fashion is as diverse as the region itself. From preppy to bohemian to streetwear, there is a style for everyone. The best way to dress like an East Coaster is to mix and match different styles to create your own unique look. Remember to dress for the weather, accessorize, and be confident. With these tips, you’ll be sure to turn heads wherever you go.
