Chicago Style

“ Well Chicago doesn’t really have a distinct style...” 

Upon hearing this statement from a non-Chicagoan, I wasn’t sure if I agreed with this judgment or was offended by it. To say the least, Chicago is not New York. People aren’t constantly walking around in 7 inch heels or a different fur coat every week. There’s a degree of practicality that resides in our fashion. I attribute this practicality to the comfortable energy that is found within the city. I do, however, believe there is a Chicago style but it cannot be defined by one word, or even a few sentences (thus, hopefully I will do it justice within a couple paragraphs).

When I think of Chicago, I am initially bombarded with thoughts of its diversity and various neighborhoods. Ranging from Rogers Park to Gold Coast to Lincoln Square to Wicker Park, the neighborhoods are as distinct as the fashions existing there. For example, Lincoln Square is a smaller neighborhood that is composed mainly of families and younger couples. The environment is very “homey” which is reflected by the women who wear jeans with a simple top and cardigan, or a printed dress with a pair of ballet flats. The men typically wear straight-leg jeans or khakis and a solid colored polo. Wicker Park, on the other hand, has recently become crowded with young artists and the neighborhood reflects a hip, edgy vibe. To go along with the street art that fills every block, the style is consumed with skinny jeans, combat boots, army jackets, and just about every tribal print one can fathom.

Now, is this a distinct style? Not everyone here is worthy of being a style star, and by no means do the range of trends constitute as ultimately being fashionable. However, I would have to argue against the opening statement. “Distinct” is dictionary-defined as not being the same; not identical; separate. I can’t think of a better word to capture the culture, including fashion, that individual Chicago neighborhoods offer. Thus, Chicago does have a distinct style because I can get off at any train stop and each time, I will taste a different flavor.