An Ode to Camp Counselor Chic
Written by Molly Bloomfield
The world of fashion that we live in is insanely fast-paced. Before one trend settles, another is surging to the forefront of our attention. From Emi Jay claw clips, to Parke crewnecks, these products and their social media marketing tactics have caused fashion conformity and homogeneity to increase. Everyone is constantly moving onto the next big thing, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to slow down.
In this time where trends are fleeting, I find refuge in the summer camp I’ve been going to since I was eight years old and where I now am a counselor for those eight year old girls. Nestled in the hills of New Hampshire, my summer camp is removed from this hustle and bustle. Campers don’t have technology or phones, so time at camp is unplugged and authentic. Days are filled with activities including sailing, hiking, arts and crafts, swimming, photography, and tennis. There’s no mirrors at camp, creating an environment disconnected from appearance. This authenticity creates outfits and fashion that are more about practicality and comfort instead of whatever is trending on social media at the time.
Camp has always been a huge part of my life, being the place where I learned crucial lessons about friendship and love as a young girl, whether that be from my friendships or from my counselors. The older counselors always seemed so cool to me, effortlessly fashionable and stylish all while having a limited and practical wardrobe. Now as the counselor and role model, I’ve embraced this role, and worked to create unique and practical outfits while not letting outside trends cause too much of an influence on my camp style.
Generally, summer camp fashion is a fashion that seems to persist. Since the 70s and before, camp counselors have been rocking “jorts”, oversized tees, and fleeces. This enduring style persists to today, and at my camp, you can still find people wearing these oversized Levi’s jean shorts and Patagonia fleeces. Sundresses are also popular for the more dressier parts of camp, as well as long skirts and tank tops. For footwear, Birkenstocks sandals and Adidas sneakers are well-liked for their durability and sustainability, shoes which have been worn by camp counselors for ages and have stood the test of time.
Regardless of whether you’ve gone to summer camp or not, we can all learn a little from camp values. Friendships are a priority, and appearances are the least of anyone’s worries. Trends move slowly and the fashion stays consistent, as camp is so removed from the hustle and bustle of microtrends. Whether you embrace the more current granola girl camp aesthetic or go for the classics, summer camp can serve as fashion (and life) inspiration.
Edited by Bailey Young and Claudia Rothberg
