We rely on our favorite outdoor brands to deliver technical functionality for active pursuits and tough conditions. Of late, however, many of our go-to logos (think Outerknown, KÜHL, and FreeFly) are turning things up a notch in the style department.
Why? “Most people wear a surprisingly small percentage of the clothes they own,” says Sarah Scott with KÜHL Brand Marketing. “The pieces they reach for again and again are the ones that work across the most situations. … As more people look for versatility from the products they wear, we’re seeing the industry move beyond clothing designed for a single purpose and toward products that can seamlessly adapt to the realities of everyday life.”
Here, eight chic pieces ready to flawlessly blend into your wardrobe for work, play, and everything in between.
Janji Women’s Circa Daily Muscle Tank
You climb rocks, paddleboard, and lift weights because you love being outside, using your body, and feeling confident and strong. Having a fab set of biceps is just a happy side effect–and it’s one well worth showing off. Do so in the Circa Daily Muscle Tank from Janji. Its quick-dry nature and relaxed fit might be made for your next run, but its slightly cropped length also pairs perfectly with your favorite jeans. $46
Outerknown Scout Straight Jean
And speaking of your favorite jeans … A good pair is essential in every season. This summer, splurge on the Scout Straight Jean from surfing legend Kelly Slater’s brand, Outerknown. Though the sustainability-focused logo is known for its ruggedly handsome Blanket Shirt (available in men’s and women’s), along with won’t-slip swimwear like the APEX Evolution Trunk, their take on denim is worth drooling over. Expect 98 percent organic cotton, which doesn’t require harmful synthetic chemicals to grow, blended with recycled spandex for stretch in a straight-leg package that molds comfortably to the hips for easy-wearing style. Prefer a wider-leg silhouette? Opt for the Isla Sailor Jean or unisex Beachcomber Relaxed Jean. $168
Smartwool Everyday Short Sleeve Button Down
Is a lightweight, short-sleeved button-down the unofficial uniform for any summer event calling for upscale casual? Take a look around the dining room at The Kitchen, Salt, or any other Pearl Street eatery while temps are high, and you’ll see what we mean. Smartwool’s take on this warm weather staple blends movement-ready recycled polyester with a touch of merino in paneled under-arm sections for breathability and softness. The Everyday Short Sleeve’s colorways (think pastel-patterned Floral Party and Black Paisley) mean your take on the uniform comes with just-enough flair to stand out. Also available for women. $85
Free Fly Sullivan’s Pant
“Perfect summer pants.” “Perfect comfy pants.” “Perfect pants.” Take a look at the reviews for the Sullivan’s Pant from the beach-style gurus at Free Fly, and a clear trend emerges–one we whole-heartedly agree with. A wide-leg, mid-rise silhouette looks elegant while promising comfort, which is enhanced with a touch of spandex for stretch and an elastic waistband. Add in the breezy woven fabric, and these bottoms are ready to wear over a swimsuit or dress up (possibly with a sexy high-rise tank?) for dinner out. $88
Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts (men’s, women’s)
The Ferrosi line from Outdoor Research includes everything from joggers and transit pants to hoodies and gaiters, but for summer style, you should pull on a pair of the comfortable yet flattering Ferrosi Shorts. Made with what Outdoor Research dubs an “extreme stretch” recycled nylon, nylon, and spandex blend, the Ferrosi shorts are at home on a boulder problem or simply Downtown Boulder. We love the built-in belt, which adds a jaunty color hit, and range of lengths (7” and 10” inseam options for men and 5” and 7” inseams for women) to fit your preferences. Have stuff to stash? Drop it into the front pockets or, for extra security, zip it into the hideaway pocket. Starting at $90
KÜHL Kalypso Dress
Salt Lake City-based KÜHL has been expertly navigating the line between fashion and function since it was founded in 1983. The Kalypso Dress is yet another example. A split neckline and subtle texture in the fabric add a touch of aesthetics-only flair, and the self-tie belt creates a more polished look with the benefit of a better fit. There’s a bit of tech savvy hiding under that gorgeous exterior too to the tune of quick-dry fabric and UPF 50 protection to keep the sun at bay. A pair of pockets are the icing on this trendy cake. $89
prAna Spring Awakening Tank
Spring is long-gone, but we’re still loving this second-season-inspired top from prAna. Made with organic cotton in an airy, open-knit silhouette, the Spring Awakening Tank goes from poolside pull-over to Saturday farmers’ market with ease. Whether you choose the bold pink guava, aptly named gecko pop, or natural-hued beach pebble color, you’re sure to turn heads. $64
Woolx Paisley Cardigan
If the room temps in your office feel more like an arctic blast than a summer breeze, be sure to have a snugly second layer like the Paisley Cardigan from Woolx on hand. Made with elegant (and soft!) Australian merino wool, the mid-thigh-length sweater has a sophisticated look that hides super powers like odor-resistance, moisture-control, and stretch–you know, in case you need to race to your stand-up desk before the boss notices you’re late. Despite the name, this lightweight merino cardy comes in a trio of simple, solid hues: black, graphite heather, and deep navy. $150
