What connects the 2011 film The Grey, the Mad Max series, and the 2015 movie Everest? It’s not the plot. The common thread lies in their protagonists’ utilitarian, technical, and functional clothing. This attire has now become an essential part of everyday wardrobes. Today, the Amber&Key team explores how professional gear evolved into a full-fledged trend that’s now a staple of casual fashion.
This style is called Gorpcore. The term originates from the acronym Good Ol’ Raisins and Peanuts - slang for a mix of dried fruit and nuts, the perfect snack for outdoor adventures. The name encapsulates the essence of the trend: a focus on comfort, practicality, and above all, functionality.
Gorpcore is defined by the use of items originally designed for climbing, hiking, and extreme conditions: oversized down jackets, waterproof parkas and anoraks, high-tech trekking boots or sneakers, warm fleece sweatshirts, sturdy hoodies, wide cargo pants, and functional backpacks.
Dressing in Gorpcore often resembles gearing up for an adventure - equipped with tools, gadgets, and, most importantly, protective clothing. Putting on a technical jacket and tightening a hood stopper can make you feel like an astronaut approaching the event horizon in Interstellar. Yes, you can look just as stylish and tech-ready as McConaughey in his spacesuit.
This aesthetic is growing in popularity, offering a chance to diversify your wardrobe with unique pieces that pair seamlessly to create layered looks. Think T-shirts over long sleeves, topped with hoodies, and finished with a cozy jacket. Amber&Key items are designed to mix and match perfectly within this trend.
All of this is highly versatile and perfect for everyday wear. You don’t have to scale the Himalayas like in The Secret Life of Walter Mitty or dive into "questionable adventures" like Sylvester Stallone in Cliffhanger. You can simply be yourself, enjoying the comfort and practicality of Gorpcore-style clothing in your everyday life.
