The people of Salt Lake City are known to be granola, artsy and undoubtedly stylish. In a walk through the university campus, a bike ride at 9th and 9th or a shopping spree at the farmers market, Salt Lake’s quaint fashion sense and laid-back scene are apparent.

Although tempting to stop by the influx of tents ranging from silversmith jewelry, apple cider donuts and paintings on display, I circled the tents at Pioneer Park, observing the outfits of the market-goers.

As I strolled with fellow Salt Lakers, I saw fabulous summer market looks, including summer dresses and one lady wearing a bellhop hat that I wish I could pull off.

I sat in the grass next to Kiera, wearing painted pants and large butterfly earrings; she recommended Silverwear SLC, a silversmith vendor where you can get spoon and fork rings custom-sized at the market.

The Utahns Behind the “Ootds”

Holly went to the farmers market on that breezy Saturday to “explore the area,” as she had just moved to Salt Lake two days ago; she was trying to get a feel for the culture of Salt Lake, “since coming here, I have to listen to granola music.”

A University of Cincinnati student, Holly is here for the semester for her design internship. We talked about the 9th and 9th bike tradition, Kilby Court and the group hikes she’s already been invited on. 

Holly gave her “ootd,” revealing, “I’m a huge thrifter.” She’ll have no problem fitting into Salt Lake. Of course, I recommended she check out Vantage. 

Calli and Nate sat under the shade of the trees with their dog, OG. When asked about their outfits, Calli gave a rundown of both their outfits, wearing brands like Free People, New Balance and Vuori bought “before it was cool.”

Calli had on two lovely silver necklaces from her grandmothers, noting that she loves how they “were given a second life.” I smiled at that, mentioning my own necklace gifted by family. 

Nate and Calli, frequent market attendees, perked up raving about the market’s inventory ranging from plums, apple cider donuts and soaps. They smiled at a farmers market memory of winning ceramic bowls together at a silent auction years ago. 

From Calli’s in-depth outfit description, both Calli and Nate’s admiration of the market’s devoted vendors and memories formed at that market, it was clear that the market and even what they picked out to wear that morning held sentimental value. 

Salt Lake City is One of a Kind

Holly, a Utahn of two days, and Calli and Nate, University of Utah alumni, all exhibited the wholesome energy found at the Salt Lake farmers market. Neither of these parties necessarily considered themselves high fashion but were a perfect representation of how individualism and personal expression reflect on the community that makes up Salt Lake City.

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