It is one of the best things about living in the Land of the Last Frontier. My closet is full of clothes that are in style and it doesn’t look like the fashion is going to change anytime soon!
Muck boots or XTra Tuffs are perfect for any occasion. They can be found out in the bush, in the grocery store, and can even be spotted at church. They are worn over a nice, thick pair of Darn Tuff socks.
Blue Jeans are perfectly acceptable, either wet or dry. Those nylon pants that can be turned into shorts by zipping off the legs are also pretty handy when it is hot (75 degrees) or when there is a possibility of getting wet. They dry quicker than my jeans. Many women in Alaska also feel like leggings are acceptable apparel. That can definitely be debated. I wear them at home, but if company comes, I slip on some “real” pants. When we see a woman with them on in the grocery store, Shon usually comments, “Hey! That lady forget to wear pants!”
Most of my shirts are long sleeved. I like t-shirt material because it is comfortable. Cotton is ok, but polyester seems to help with the mosquito bites. I have found that a bandana sprayed with OFF tied around my neck also helps keep the little devils at bay. If they are terrible, I wear a head net.
I often wear a vest. It helps keep me a little warmer without constricting my arms and it covers my pistol. Yes, many women in Alaska are packing. I don’t particularly like wearing a gun, but then we see a big bear with cubs and I find myself strapping it on, even without Shon’s encouragement. It probably wouldn’t stop a bear if it were determined to get me, but it might scare one away.
To top off my fashionable attire, I pull my hair up into a ponytail and slip on a ball cap. It helps keep my headset in place when flying and is a wonderful “shelf” for my sunglasses when it is cloudy out.
Gloves are optional, depending on the situation. I prefer leather gloves because they usually last an entire season. I decorate mine with a Sharpie so Shon doesn’t accidentally confuse them with his.
When I really want to get dressed up, I put on a pair of earrings and slip on my wedding ring. And I know I look especially nice, because Shon will comment, “Woo Hoo! You sure are dressed up fancy today!”