1. Assigning fashion prestige based on function over form.
In Alaska, Vogue and GQ are shoved aside in favor of sensible periodicals like Alaska Magazine or Backpacker. Instead of looking to Paris, London, or Tokyo for our fashion trends, we take a more down-to-earth approach. Employing the Alaskan “comfy factor” scale of wearability, we assess things like pocket depth and quantity, general sturdiness, and whether or not buckles and snaps can hold up under rough use. “Designer fashion” in Alaska means such brands as North Face, Carhartt, REI, Columbia, Patagonia, Burton, LL Bean, Canada Goose and Cabella’s — all of which are worn with enviable pride.