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When visiting Maine, the choice of attire can instantly reveal whether you are a local or a tourist. According to insights from a long-time resident, dressing up with sundresses, heels, or designer bags sets visitors apart. Mainers generally favor a more relaxed, comfortable aesthetic, often described as \"coastal bum,\" with an emphasis on practicality over fashion. This preference extends to various scenarios, from daily activities to dining out, where even white jeans and flat sandals are considered dressy. Furthermore, locals prioritize warmth and comfort, especially during Maine's harsh winters, making practical clothing like work pants and flannel shirts commonplace.

Understanding Maine's Unique Fashion Identity for Visitors

In a recent social media revelation, Cait Savaannahh, a seasoned resident of Maine, highlighted a distinct fashion difference that immediately marks a visitor as a tourist. On October 11, 2025, Savaannahh shared a TikTok video explaining that any attire perceived as \"dressed up\" – including sundresses, heels, elegant purses, or even white linen pants and sunhats – instantly signifies an out-of-state individual. This observation was quickly supported by local comments, which indicated that more formal wear is reserved almost exclusively for office environments or special evening occasions.

This sentiment is echoed by lifestyle and fashion experts like Jo-Lynne Shane, who, on her popular blog, advises travelers to pack for comfort and casualness when heading to Maine. She suggests that even for dining out, simple white jeans and flat sandals suffice. The prevailing local style, as Savaannahh puts it, is a \"coastal bum\" look, characterized by baggy T-shirts, loose-fitting shorts or jeans, and sneakers. This practical approach to clothing prioritizes comfort above all else.

Discussions among Mainers on platforms like Reddit further illuminate this preference. Locals have humorously suggested attire such as a \"Hammond Lumber T-shirt\" or durable work pants from brands like Carhartt, along with flannel shirts and fleece sweatshirts, as quintessential Maine wear. Beyond blending in, practical dressing is paramount for navigating Maine's often chilly weather, particularly its severe winters. Temperatures can plummet well below freezing, accompanied by significant snowfall, making warm and functional clothing essential for anyone, whether enjoying a casual stroll or exploring the region's renowned wildlife spots.

This insight into Maine's local fashion culture offers a valuable lesson for travelers. It emphasizes that embracing the relaxed and practical style of a destination can enrich the travel experience, fostering a sense of belonging and greater comfort. It also highlights the importance of dressing for the climate, ensuring that practicality and preparedness are prioritized, especially when exploring regions with distinct weather patterns like Maine. Ultimately, understanding and respecting local customs, even in fashion, can transform a mere visit into a more authentic and enjoyable journey.