Nikki’s Inbox: In the Market for the Market

August 27, 2010 By: Nikki 4052 Views

Hello Nikki!

I work at a local farmers’ market during the summer and sell vegetables and fruit on the weekends. I’m sick of my weekend fashion, which usually consists of comfortable sweats. How can I dress fashionably without being too exposed and uncomfortable? Please help me! Thank you!

Lalabluechi


I love going to the local farmers’ markets on weekends. There’s something about wandering through stalls of colorful fruit and vegetables, sampling all the different food stalls and being amongst a swarm of busy grocers and happy customers. In short, it works up quite an appetite! Alas! I consider these weekend trips quite a treat so I usually go for a gingham sundress with wedges when I’m shopping for something like homemade honey and fresh strawberries.
If you’re the one behind the stall, there’s a good chance you’ll be doing lots of moving around and heavy lifting. A perfect outfit for this part-time gig is anything that’s comfortable and relaxed.

Comfort First

  • Fabrics: Choose fabrics that you can work in and keep you as cool as possible because you’ll be spending most of your time outdoors. Natural fabrics that stretch are perfect for the heavy lifting and walking around you’ll have to do. Breathable fabrics keep you cool when you’re working in hot weather, so go for 100% cotton or cotton blend as well as linen. A mix of polyester or elastane (which makes clothes extra stretchy) adds easy movement to the fabric.
  • Separates: Choose pants or shorts for bottoms as these are more functional options, especially if you have to be moving around lots. On easy days that you’re assigned to manage the cash or stall, go for one-piece dresses or jumpsuits.

Take a look at the outfits below!

Utilitarian Chic – There’s something chic about a girl in utility wear. Is it the hint of a boy-meets-girl vibe, or the easy, minimal basics? A solid-colored racerback tank top, camisole, or V-neck tee (I love white and gray for this look!) will pair perfectly with skinny cargo pants or today’s knee-length shorts.

Cargo pants

Shorts

Basic tanks and tops

All-American Prep – Classic patterns like plaid and small checks suit the vibe of your work environment, but that doesn’t mean you have to look like a country bumpkin from Smallville. Classic shirts with tabbed sleeves can be paired with cut-offs for an easy look. A smarter version will sport pinstripes. On easy days when you’re manning the stall and in charge of cash, opt for a not-too fussy gingham sundress and canvas sneakers, or even just pretty flats. You can provide the warm, welcoming smile to the customers, and rake in the sales!

Stripes

Plaid

Cut-offs

Festival Color – I always love the festivals at the markets. Even if yours doesn’t coincide with a fiesta, you can always bring the vibe to your workplace since summer is also the season of music and festivals. Why not mix a little of that eclectic style into the vibrant farmer’s market? Graphic-print tees pair easily with washed denims while bright colors and tie-die patterns mix with fringe details for boho chic. For accessories, make sure you go for stud earrings and chokers instead of the dangling stuff to avoid snagging it on anything. Fashion with a dose of practicality!

Enjoy the weekend, lovely!

Nikki

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