The birds are chirping, puffer coats have been haphazardly thrown into closets for the season and it is finally time to sunbathe on the oval again. This can only mean one thing—spring has sprung.
Having just gotten through a seemingly never-ending winter, it’s time to jump feet-first into the new season—and what better way to do it than in a brand-new pair of hiking boots?
We’re here to lay out all the essentials for your perfect granola girl summer.
First, what does “granola girl” even mean? Though this colloquial term became popular in the early 2010s, it has only grown in popularity, as the health and nature-conscious persona evolved and changed every season since.
According to NFM Magazine, the granola girl has “a very low-maintenance appearance” and dresses “mainly in earth tones,” wearing whatever makes them most comfortable and able to move.
Not quite nailing the hippie look or your favorite spin instructor’s new style, the granola girl aesthetic falls somewhere in the middle, straddling athletic and outdoorsy with ease.
Let’s start with an easy one, tops, the most easily customizable piece of the granola girl’s signature look. This piece should encompass your personal style and set a theme for the rest of the outfit. Whether you opt for an oversized shirt or the beloved baby tee, your favorite tank top or a long-sleeved shirt, just make sure you’re comfortable and happy.
When getting into bottoms, things get a little more specific. This spring and summer, Carhartt is sure to rule the scene with its durable, neutral cargo pants, protecting you from poison ivy and any critters you may run into on your romps around the woods.
Prefer something a little lighter? Go for a pair of classic Patagonia shorts.
No outfit is complete without the perfect pair of shoes, and seeing as though hiking boots have been trending through the past year, you may already be fit with a mid-length boot to take you where you need to go.
If you thought these were only meant for wilderness exploration, think again. In the past months, hiking boots have not only been making their way through the mountains but also to daily wardrobes, making their way to your weekly Target trip, your favorite restaurant and even across the Oval to class.
When it comes to warmer weather and less strenuous activities, sandals are a great option too. A pair of Tevas or Chacos are perfect for anything from running through creeks to walking through the park.
Lastly, accessories. Recently, there’s been a rise in bright pops of color, shown perfectly in the Cotopaxi Kapai Hip Pack, which has become a staple in many granola girl wardrobes. With this fanny pack slung across your back, your hair in a braid or a low bun and your Nalgene water bottle in hand, you’ll have finally nailed the perfect look, letting the world know you’re always up for an adventure.
There’s just one last thing to keep in mind. If you’re on the hunt for any of the items we’ve listed, remember to shop sustainably and always check out your local second-hand stores. At their cores, granola girls are environmentally conscious and we should be the same.
