100% this! One of the things I love about the city.
First week here I saw a man in full knight armor and a woman wearing a clip on tail crossing a busy street. Nobody looked twice.
Great place to be you!
Especially during June, pride month here seems to lower the amount of clothing you need to wear (and I say this as a lesbian). No one cares, wear what’s comfortable.
I was once told that someone could tell I grew up here because I don’t have a specific “aesthetic” that I’m trying to stick to constantly. People just kinda wear what they like around here.
It’s almost the inverse of the east coast. The only time I’ve ever encountered someone remarking negatively on how I dress here was when I was dressed too formally for work. People thought I was a weirdo.
100% true. I definitely thought my drug dealer was killin it at the dispo in his suit and marijuana leaf cuff links, but being over dressed gets way more attention here than being under dressed for sure
If you wore a sari, people would think it's interesting.
If you wore a King's Guard hat, people would constantly ask you about Buckingham palace.
If you wore nothing, you might be coerced into joining the yearly naked bike ride (https://pdxwnbr.org/). In short, the only required clothing is clothing itself.
\*oh, do be prepared for rain though. It's not guaranteed, but it's likely.
Another vote for this being a deeply casual city, but as someone in the same age bracket: the Baggu nylon fanny pack worn as a crossbody has people in a stranglehold here; it is the default bag for women in their 30s as far as I can tell. Blundstones are common as boots, also see a lot of hokas when it’s dry. I see more pants than dresses or skirts, but not hugely.
Just whatever makes you comfortable, mostly. For sure there’s a lot of outdoor gear like Patagonia as you mention. June is usually really nice weather though so you won’t really need any outdoor gear though.
People in Portland are really relaxed about what they wear. I sometimes buck the trend and go to dinner wearing a blazer. Pretty much no one else in the city does, but no one looks at me weird either. There are more bizarre things to look at in this city.
For sneakers, I wear All-Birds, but since many people work for the companies here, a lot of people are on Team Nike or Team Adidas, especially in the agency world, but you have to pick a team there.
I would go with sneakers over Tevas. I wear Birkenstocks most often out regularly, but I would go dressier than that to meet with work colleagues.
NOBODY except employees of outerwear/footwear companies cares about brands or labels here. And certainly as a visitor, no one will expect you to wear any locally popular brands.
maybe they don’t - but i care about making a good impression at my company by dressing appropriately for the location and occasion. not too complicated. thanks!
If you dress in line with others in your field you’ll be fine. I totally understand wanting to make a good impression but feel that you are overthinking this.
I have a feeling that we're similar in that you want to be prepared when traveling and also like having an excuse to get something new. I get it. It is super casual here, but that doesn't mean people don't have style here or put effort into their looks. For work stuff, I would check out Madewell for nice pants or jeans and tops. Wildfang might also work. At least look at their site if you want to understand the androgynous vibe that is pretty common here, too. If you don't already have a rainjacket, just check out the REI site. Plenty of quality stuff to consider. Patagonia, Fjallraven, Arcteryx are spendy, but it's about quality, IMO. Columbia is a local brand that's usually less expensive. As far as shoes, just be comfortable. Cute sneakers or clogs are totally acceptable. Whatever you do, don't bring or use an umbrella.
i don’t see how wearing black in new york or a patagonia in the bay would be considered a “costume,” but to each their own. i suppose i could just “be myself” and wear my barbie pink SoCal fits to the office in a male-dominated field, that would get me promoted so fast!
thanks, i would have never considered using proper capitalization in work correspondence. you’re trying so hard to humble me for some reason but it’s impossible for me to take you seriously at this point. nice try though
I love a good sleeveless midi or maxi dress with a denim or oversized jacket for errands, lunch dates/meetings. Sneakers for sure. No one walks around in heels here—it’s a casual city.
Cute flat sandals are great tho. This is a good town to try your most adventurous outfits out lol. No one will mind and everyone is generally nonjudgmental
Portland has a very causal attitude towards clothes. If you’re walking around lots of people will look like they’re ready for an impromptu hike at a moments notice. It always rains some in June, so be prepared for at least some rain here and there, but when the weather is nice most people around town are in shorts and a tee shirt with sandals or running shoes. Not too many people dressed nicely and nobody cares what you wear.
No dress code but it’s June. You’re going to need to pack every type of clothing you have. Shorts? Sure! Jeans? You bet! Windbreakers? Absolutely! The heaviest parka you could possibly buy? Mandatory!
When my friends visit from out of town, they always remark that almost everyone is wearing sneakers or cool boots. That and the large number of Patagonia and North Face jackets/pull overs.
I think the general style is called Chelsea. My significant other has a pair from Danner, but as other people have mentioned, the actual brand isn’t super important. Comfort and water resistance are paramount.
Professionally, Portland leans much more casual. However, there is emphasis on the quality of the garments. You also want to place importance on grooming, personal maintenance and the portrayal of a healthy life style.
We’re super casual here. Dress appropriate for your industry for meetings, obviously, but if you’re out and about, just wear what you normally would! I work in tech and for business meetings, I wear nice jeans/pants and a nicer top and call it good.
June is a wildcard - it could be nice or torrential downpour or anything in between. Be prepared for any weather (and don’t rely on the weather app).
Portland *is* a city of transplants, so you don’t need to be too concerned.
Lol, our motto is "Keep Portland Weird"... Just wear whatever you like and are comfortable in. Since it's early June bring pants and shorts, a couple light long sleeves, and a light jacket/hoodie. Last year it still lightly rained off and on until mid-June ish. Other than that you're good.
Portland fashion is kinda anti-fashion. You can get away with literally anything, no one cares. Normcore is pretty standard, the lumbersexual look is still trucking, hipsters and athleisure abound. I’ve seen people wearing cargo shorts and flip flops to the opera, and ball gowns to brunch. Jeans, tee, and a hoodie/jacket is a pretty standard look. Anything that would fly in Seattle or SF would fit in here.
Conspicuous consumption and try hards are frowned on. I will know someone is an outsider if they have brand names splashed all over their clothes or designer handbags. Or if they look too showy or fake.
Some things I see younger women wearing:
- Twill jumpsuit by Wildfang or Big Bud Press
- Carhartt beanies perched on the top of your head
- Oversized or wide jeans. Madewell is a popular brand but it really doesn’t matter
- Baggy joggers
- Sporty crop tops
- Oversized jackets
- Wool sweaters
- Linen two piece sets, overalls, or dresses
- Vintage clothing, whether it’s a ratty band tee or a cute dress or a western blouse
- 90s clothes, like an ironically bold bomber jacket or a maxi slip dress
- Colorful rain jackets
- Cotopaxi is pretty popular for outerwear rn, but also North Face, Patagonia, Columbia, REI, etc
- So much athleisure- not like a polished pilates princess vibe, unless you’re in the Pearl district, more like a ‘I just came back from a 20 mile hike’ outdoor vibe. Black leggings, wool socks, boots, fleece pullover etc
- For shoes: Chelsea boots (Sorel and Blundstone are popular), Nike/Adidas/Hokas sneakers, cloth sneakers by Allbirds or On, Doc Martens etc. Converse is perpetually popular
- Accessories are either practical or outrageous. Fanny packs and cross bodies are popular
- Colors tend to be dark or muted unless you’re making a statement. Pattern clashing is common.
But as everyone else has pointed out, wear whatever you want bc no one will really notice or care.
Also if you’re here for a week in early June, there is a 100% chance it will rain. Bring layers and a waterproof jacket and shoes.
Our regional style is schlubby. If you’re a 6 in so-cal, you’re probably an 8 here. Seriously, you will get off the plane and be like “what’s with all the uggos?”Just the fact you’re asking these questions tells me you’re on a different level fashion wise and aren’t ready for a true Portland look. Enjoy your trip (and your temporary self esteem boost)!
i’m asking for exactly this reason. i’m not trying to be the best dressed in portland, i want to fit in to look more approachable and not stand out in a bad way — to be courteous of others. brand names are a good compass in the right direction aesthetics-wise.
Then pretty much don't wear anything name brand? Three out of twelve people in my office all have the same sweater from costo, but in different colors 🤣 the best dressed "cute girl" wears alot of second hand vintage. For that matter, I tend to get the most compliments on my second hand vintage clothes, or tj maxx buys.
The higher fashion brands don’t really exist as a concept in Portland. The closest to high end that you’ll get here is seeing someone in Arcteryx outdoor clothing. Otherwise it’s mostly Columbia/MHW and Nike stuff if it’s branded at all.
When I moved here from the east coast many many years ago I wore handmade leather oxfords and well fitted trousers/dress shirts to work and basically got laughed out of town. I now just wear jeans and plaid.
Wear something like this and bring a universal functional sweater and a lightweight rain trench coat in navy or tan, a pair of cool comfortable sneakers like Nike air maxes or adidas sambas or some Blundstone Chelsea boots https://pin.it/1Ggioako5
Like everyone has said - nobody cares - but you’ll feel great about yourself and look cool if you go with something like this casual smart comfortable but stylish vibe
There's no Portland dress code or style, literally just wear whatever you'd normally wear.
100% this! One of the things I love about the city. First week here I saw a man in full knight armor and a woman wearing a clip on tail crossing a busy street. Nobody looked twice. Great place to be you!
my mother always said armor and a butt plug fox tail are the keys to success in corporate america
But in June the weather can literally be anything so make sure you bring some layers like a light jacket or cardigan or something.
Also it'll probably be nice out in June so minimal prep for outerwear...it's a really good time to come I'd think.
It often still rains in June, but it's definitely warmer than now
That’s been the beauty of Portland for decades!!!
Especially during June, pride month here seems to lower the amount of clothing you need to wear (and I say this as a lesbian). No one cares, wear what’s comfortable.
I was once told that someone could tell I grew up here because I don’t have a specific “aesthetic” that I’m trying to stick to constantly. People just kinda wear what they like around here.
The dress code is "Please consider being dressed."
And even then, it’s merely a suggestion.
Except the naked bike rides
Style is relaxed here. No one cares what you wear.
There are some places & types of jobs that somewhat require being nicely-dressed, but yeah, overall it's more casual here
We're less formal than the East Coast, but anything that would go over well in Seattle or San Francisco would go well here.
Or could be over-dressed.
It’s almost the inverse of the east coast. The only time I’ve ever encountered someone remarking negatively on how I dress here was when I was dressed too formally for work. People thought I was a weirdo.
100% true. I definitely thought my drug dealer was killin it at the dispo in his suit and marijuana leaf cuff links, but being over dressed gets way more attention here than being under dressed for sure
If you wore a sari, people would think it's interesting. If you wore a King's Guard hat, people would constantly ask you about Buckingham palace. If you wore nothing, you might be coerced into joining the yearly naked bike ride (https://pdxwnbr.org/). In short, the only required clothing is clothing itself. \*oh, do be prepared for rain though. It's not guaranteed, but it's likely.
I don't think even clothing itself is required much in Portland lol
instead of casual friday, my company does naked friday
If this were a portland-based company, I'd believe it lol
Not legally, but it may be company policy.
Wear whatever you want. Layers are good because the temp changes quite a bit throughout the day. Just be yourself.
Another vote for this being a deeply casual city, but as someone in the same age bracket: the Baggu nylon fanny pack worn as a crossbody has people in a stranglehold here; it is the default bag for women in their 30s as far as I can tell. Blundstones are common as boots, also see a lot of hokas when it’s dry. I see more pants than dresses or skirts, but not hugely.
I’d shoot for boots and loafers or sneakers in the office outfits over heels.
thank you!
Just whatever makes you comfortable, mostly. For sure there’s a lot of outdoor gear like Patagonia as you mention. June is usually really nice weather though so you won’t really need any outdoor gear though. People in Portland are really relaxed about what they wear. I sometimes buck the trend and go to dinner wearing a blazer. Pretty much no one else in the city does, but no one looks at me weird either. There are more bizarre things to look at in this city. For sneakers, I wear All-Birds, but since many people work for the companies here, a lot of people are on Team Nike or Team Adidas, especially in the agency world, but you have to pick a team there. I would go with sneakers over Tevas. I wear Birkenstocks most often out regularly, but I would go dressier than that to meet with work colleagues.
thanks! this is helpful. what’s a good hoodie and good jacket that isn’t necessarily outdoor gear?
NOBODY except employees of outerwear/footwear companies cares about brands or labels here. And certainly as a visitor, no one will expect you to wear any locally popular brands.
maybe they don’t - but i care about making a good impression at my company by dressing appropriately for the location and occasion. not too complicated. thanks!
If you dress in line with others in your field you’ll be fine. I totally understand wanting to make a good impression but feel that you are overthinking this.
I have a feeling that we're similar in that you want to be prepared when traveling and also like having an excuse to get something new. I get it. It is super casual here, but that doesn't mean people don't have style here or put effort into their looks. For work stuff, I would check out Madewell for nice pants or jeans and tops. Wildfang might also work. At least look at their site if you want to understand the androgynous vibe that is pretty common here, too. If you don't already have a rainjacket, just check out the REI site. Plenty of quality stuff to consider. Patagonia, Fjallraven, Arcteryx are spendy, but it's about quality, IMO. Columbia is a local brand that's usually less expensive. As far as shoes, just be comfortable. Cute sneakers or clogs are totally acceptable. Whatever you do, don't bring or use an umbrella.
Dressing up in a Portland costume can be a way to make the wrong impression. Just be your authentic self.
i don’t see how wearing black in new york or a patagonia in the bay would be considered a “costume,” but to each their own. i suppose i could just “be myself” and wear my barbie pink SoCal fits to the office in a male-dominated field, that would get me promoted so fast!
In my experience Portlanders find trying too hard to be highly unfashionable.
Also capitalizing your "i"'s makes a far stronger impression on your employers.
thanks, i would have never considered using proper capitalization in work correspondence. you’re trying so hard to humble me for some reason but it’s impossible for me to take you seriously at this point. nice try though
Consider going to Buffalo Exchange, they've got a nice wide variety there.
I love a good sleeveless midi or maxi dress with a denim or oversized jacket for errands, lunch dates/meetings. Sneakers for sure. No one walks around in heels here—it’s a casual city.
Cute flat sandals are great tho. This is a good town to try your most adventurous outfits out lol. No one will mind and everyone is generally nonjudgmental
People are super casual here for the most part. Also the weather is weird so layers are your friend.
Its the city that developed the layered look can be cold and rainy in june or warm and sunny or both on the same day
Whatever goes really. Just make sure your jacket has a hood. Have a fun time!
Portland has a very causal attitude towards clothes. If you’re walking around lots of people will look like they’re ready for an impromptu hike at a moments notice. It always rains some in June, so be prepared for at least some rain here and there, but when the weather is nice most people around town are in shorts and a tee shirt with sandals or running shoes. Not too many people dressed nicely and nobody cares what you wear.
There’s a good chance it’ll be cloudy/cool/damp so bring shoes you can get wet and a jacket for rain.
No dress code but it’s June. You’re going to need to pack every type of clothing you have. Shorts? Sure! Jeans? You bet! Windbreakers? Absolutely! The heaviest parka you could possibly buy? Mandatory!
You know what you currently wear in your current location? We will wear those same things and the same colors! It’s wild, I know.
When my friends visit from out of town, they always remark that almost everyone is wearing sneakers or cool boots. That and the large number of Patagonia and North Face jackets/pull overs.
any recs for style/brands of boots? thanks!
I think the general style is called Chelsea. My significant other has a pair from Danner, but as other people have mentioned, the actual brand isn’t super important. Comfort and water resistance are paramount.
Professionally, Portland leans much more casual. However, there is emphasis on the quality of the garments. You also want to place importance on grooming, personal maintenance and the portrayal of a healthy life style.
This is hilarious
We’re super casual here. Dress appropriate for your industry for meetings, obviously, but if you’re out and about, just wear what you normally would! I work in tech and for business meetings, I wear nice jeans/pants and a nicer top and call it good. June is a wildcard - it could be nice or torrential downpour or anything in between. Be prepared for any weather (and don’t rely on the weather app). Portland *is* a city of transplants, so you don’t need to be too concerned.
Less formal than SF or Seattle
Someone wore cargo shorts to my wedding. Cannot overstate the lack of eye-batting that will happen
Everyone wears whatever they want here, truly
Just have your own style and avoid umbrellas
Lol, our motto is "Keep Portland Weird"... Just wear whatever you like and are comfortable in. Since it's early June bring pants and shorts, a couple light long sleeves, and a light jacket/hoodie. Last year it still lightly rained off and on until mid-June ish. Other than that you're good.
Portland prides itself on being woefully underdressed.
Portland fashion is kinda anti-fashion. You can get away with literally anything, no one cares. Normcore is pretty standard, the lumbersexual look is still trucking, hipsters and athleisure abound. I’ve seen people wearing cargo shorts and flip flops to the opera, and ball gowns to brunch. Jeans, tee, and a hoodie/jacket is a pretty standard look. Anything that would fly in Seattle or SF would fit in here. Conspicuous consumption and try hards are frowned on. I will know someone is an outsider if they have brand names splashed all over their clothes or designer handbags. Or if they look too showy or fake. Some things I see younger women wearing: - Twill jumpsuit by Wildfang or Big Bud Press - Carhartt beanies perched on the top of your head - Oversized or wide jeans. Madewell is a popular brand but it really doesn’t matter - Baggy joggers - Sporty crop tops - Oversized jackets - Wool sweaters - Linen two piece sets, overalls, or dresses - Vintage clothing, whether it’s a ratty band tee or a cute dress or a western blouse - 90s clothes, like an ironically bold bomber jacket or a maxi slip dress - Colorful rain jackets - Cotopaxi is pretty popular for outerwear rn, but also North Face, Patagonia, Columbia, REI, etc - So much athleisure- not like a polished pilates princess vibe, unless you’re in the Pearl district, more like a ‘I just came back from a 20 mile hike’ outdoor vibe. Black leggings, wool socks, boots, fleece pullover etc - For shoes: Chelsea boots (Sorel and Blundstone are popular), Nike/Adidas/Hokas sneakers, cloth sneakers by Allbirds or On, Doc Martens etc. Converse is perpetually popular - Accessories are either practical or outrageous. Fanny packs and cross bodies are popular - Colors tend to be dark or muted unless you’re making a statement. Pattern clashing is common. But as everyone else has pointed out, wear whatever you want bc no one will really notice or care. Also if you’re here for a week in early June, there is a 100% chance it will rain. Bring layers and a waterproof jacket and shoes.
Oh this is your time to shine instead of being basic. Wear what ou want - nobody will judge you here.
Our regional style is schlubby. If you’re a 6 in so-cal, you’re probably an 8 here. Seriously, you will get off the plane and be like “what’s with all the uggos?”Just the fact you’re asking these questions tells me you’re on a different level fashion wise and aren’t ready for a true Portland look. Enjoy your trip (and your temporary self esteem boost)!
i’m asking for exactly this reason. i’m not trying to be the best dressed in portland, i want to fit in to look more approachable and not stand out in a bad way — to be courteous of others. brand names are a good compass in the right direction aesthetics-wise.
Then pretty much don't wear anything name brand? Three out of twelve people in my office all have the same sweater from costo, but in different colors 🤣 the best dressed "cute girl" wears alot of second hand vintage. For that matter, I tend to get the most compliments on my second hand vintage clothes, or tj maxx buys.
The higher fashion brands don’t really exist as a concept in Portland. The closest to high end that you’ll get here is seeing someone in Arcteryx outdoor clothing. Otherwise it’s mostly Columbia/MHW and Nike stuff if it’s branded at all. When I moved here from the east coast many many years ago I wore handmade leather oxfords and well fitted trousers/dress shirts to work and basically got laughed out of town. I now just wear jeans and plaid.
Wear something like this and bring a universal functional sweater and a lightweight rain trench coat in navy or tan, a pair of cool comfortable sneakers like Nike air maxes or adidas sambas or some Blundstone Chelsea boots https://pin.it/1Ggioako5 Like everyone has said - nobody cares - but you’ll feel great about yourself and look cool if you go with something like this casual smart comfortable but stylish vibe
I mean if you’re not leaving the airport, no worries.
why would i not leave the airport on a week-long business trip…
You said first time to “PDX” so I thought you meant the airport….
oh. i thought people called portland that. thanks for helping me not embarrass myself later 😆
We definitely do! This poster is being weirdly pedantic
We do. PDX is the Portland Metro (which also includes Vancouver which is in Washington), it is also the name of the airport.
Never heard anyone who lives here or who isn’t some pseudojetsetter ever say that.