I love stylish clothes and being outside! It seems that now, more than ever, style and comfort are coming together.
Recently, I was lucky enough to speak with Jasmin Ghaffarian, Director of Womens Outdoor Outerwear & Lifestyle, The North Face. Jasmin shared with me the top trends for outdoor wear this summer and some of the latest innovations.
What are the latest trends for outdoor clothing?
It's different for men and women. Men are looking for functionality, something subdued and comfortable. Men have started really veering into cleaner, more technical aesthetics and are less enamored with cargo pants and anything too bulky. Women's trends change weekly but the big change is women are looking for well-fitting and modern looking hiking clothes.
Our stretch knit Motivation program for example is a great program that can take you from a long hike to the coffee shop. Women are looking for something to fit their busy lifestyle and move with them through the day.
Multi-day hikers are still looking for something more technical but want silhouettes that have progressed from the traditional hiker stereotype in zip-off khaki pants. The one thing in common for men and women who are active in the outdoors is that their clothing needs to feel effortless, be able to move and comfortable goes without saying.
What are the latest colours?
Generally everything has been very athletic and there have been so many saturated neons in apparel and footwear. The upcoming trends are that colors are becoming more muted and sophisticated. While there are still undertones of bright they are veering away from NEON and moving into more dusty palettes.
What are the latest innovations in outdoor active wear?
Most activewear innovations have always come through footwear. We are really starting to see momentum in apparel. Currently we have FuseForm which is really pushing the boundary of what can be done in fabrics and constructions, enabling us to have multiple benefits across one fabrics. I think wearables will be quickly evolving.
What kind of materials do you use for day hiking active wear?
It typically depends on preference. Wovens can be great and more durable depending on the terrain. And knits can be great for breathability and to get more mobility. Also spring and fall change the weights of fabrics we use but ultimately it's up to the user's preference.
Any other tips or comments?
Everyone should not only get outdoors more, but we should all continue to protect the playgrounds, parks and outdoor areas around us. We are lucky to live in such a beautiful country with so many possibilities outside.
I will continue to enjoy the outdoors and being stylish, and share my experiences. If you have ideas or questions about the outdoors please leave a comment below and I will do my best to find the answer for you.
Your suggestions are always welcome, as I continue on my journey to enjoy life to the fullest. Let's have the very best 2015!
Visit Sacha daily at SachaD.com
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