The Somewhere Outside Aesthetic
Like many other established and emerging brands, Somewhere Outside says it’s obsessed with developing versatile clothing that seamlessly blends into the outdoors and around the city without compromising on functionality or aesthetics. This is evident in how the company approaches essential outdoor staples. The Whale’s Island Windbreaker, for example, is built out of a windproof nylon and polyester fabric with perfectly placed pockets. Many of the company’s long-sleeve tees are built with mesh paneling for enhanced breathability. The gear is technical enough, but never features something like a DWR coating you’ll have to retreat (like the Arc’teryx Alpha SV). “Most of us aren’t professional [explorers], we’re amateurs,” said Ko. “So while we value function, we don’t obsess over it.”
Indeed, the Somewhere Outside look feels a bit historic. This year’s sping and summer collection is heavy on loose, long shorts, graphic tees, and fanny packs. “We love vintage references,” said Ko. “When we look at old mountaineering photos, people [are] wearing fur coats and all sorts of things … We value clothes that age. Not deteriorate, but mature.”
