Your Style Guide for Hanging Out in the MidCoast

Whether you live year-round in the MidCoast or are just visiting, here’s your style guide for what to wear and where to get it. Our coastal weather is rarely predictable. Cool foggy mornings can quickly turn into 80-degree bluebird days. Or, the reverse! The good news is you only need a few things for a sailboat cruise, kayaking, hiking, camping, or having cocktails and dining at one of our renowned restaurants.

Buy Classic and Wear it a Lifetime

With our miles of coastline, MidCoast style is unique compared to other areas in the state. Go for well-made basics – khakis, jeans, or cords. Simple tees, sweaters, and jackets. Remember, have extra layers on hand for whatever the weather serves up.

Yes, Flannel is Formal Wear

You can wear flannel anywhere and anytime. However, don’t confuse “plaid” with flannel. You don’t have to look like a lumberjack. “Flannel” simply refers to the soft cotton fabric.

Shorts in The Winter

Even when it’s below freezing, don’t be surprised to see some hardy MidCoasters wearing parkas and shorts. It’s the “inner kid” in people telling themselves to go out and have fun!

 

 

fourTWELVE – Rockland

The timeless designs of owner Beth Bowley are made in Rockland in her Studio 412 workshop. Fabrics are selected from the best mills for their natural beauty and her admitted obsession with linen. The boutique is also sought after for its collection of must-have items from frequent shopping expeditions.

 

 

Maine Sport Outfitters – Rockland, Camden, Rockport

You can spend hours looking at the women’s and men’s clothing in one of the three locations of Maine Sport Outfitters. Name your sport or favorite sports bar and you’ll find everything you need from high polar boots to sunglasses for fly fishing.

 

 

Hamilton Marine – Searsport, Rockland

If you’re heading out on the ocean, get tried and true marine wear at one of Hamilton’s stores in Searsport or Rockland. Commercial fishermen and day sailors will outfit themselves with “salopettes” – heavy-duty bib-and-brace overalls and classic, canvas water buckets.

 

 

Maine Alpaca Experience – Unity, Northport

Few materials are as warm, water resistant, and strong as alpaca. The Northern Solstice Alpaca Farm in the town of Unity welcomes visitors to see their alpacas and try on cozy alpaca clothing. The alpaca vests, crew socks, sweaters, and beanies are cozy and handsome.

 

 

Renys – Damariscotta, Belfast, Camden, Bath, and Topsham

In 1949, R.H. Reny began selling merchandise out of an old Hudson car in Damariscotta. His first store in town became a rare, family-owned success story that has grown into a statewide, retail icon. Close-out pricing on popular brand clothing and footwear has made Renys a must-shop destination.

 

 

The Grasshopper Shop – Rockland, Belfast

For decades, “something for everyone” has been a happy understatement that brings customers into these lively, colorful stores. Women in particular shop regularly for jackets, shirts, organic tees, dresses, and footwear. You’ll also find gifts for the body and home throughout the shops.

 

 

Maine Outdoor Sportsman – Northport

This is a serious outfitter for hiking, hunting, fishing, and camping enthusiasts – there’s even an archery range in the basement. Their range of clothing and footwear includes well-known brands that will keep you warm, dry, and ready for any outdoor activities in the MidCoast.

 

 

 

 

Vintage MidCoast Style

In a region like the MidCoast, high-quality, lovingly worn clothing is highly sought after. Four of our favorite vintage shops are Curator in Rockland, Upper Vintage in Camden, Estilio in Brunswick, and Second Hand Eve in Belfast.

 

For more MidCoast shopping ideas, explore Antique Shopping, or discover some Maine Makers Who Are Shaking Things Up.