The Top 10 States That Are The Least Obsessed With Fashion

The same study that was used to review the states that are most fashion-obsessed also found the top 10 states that were the least obsessed. Researchers from Karen Millen used Google Search algorithms to analyze what specific fashion terms were most searched for in each state to determine each state’s fashion preferences. 

Most of the least fashion-obsessed states from this study had some things in common: Their states are full of agriculture and outdoorsy things to do like national park exploring, farming, and scenic views. These things, plus the weather, play a factor in why the locals dress the way they do. 

Here are the top 10 states that are least obsessed with fashion, ranked in descending order.

10. Idaho

Idaho is known for its beautiful mountainous landscapes, potatoes, and gems, but it’s definitely not recognized for its fashion. When looking up the fashion sense in Idaho, outdoorsy and casual is the way they roll. Winters in Idaho can be freezing cold, so during this time people dress for the weather. Puffer jackets and snow boots are go-tos for those who live in the mountains. In the hottest parts of summer, it can get a little over 100 degrees and is dry and clear, so people dress lightly. 

9. Kansas

If you aren’t from Kansas, then maybe all you think of is The Wizard of Oz, like me. Kansas is another state that’s not known for its fashion sense. Kansas is called the sunflower state, and is known for its wheat production, the Great Plains, and of course our favorite childhood movie. 

8. Oklahoma

You’ll see a trend on this list, and that’s cowboy culture. Oklahoma is just one of several cowboy culture states here in the 10 least fashion-obsessed states. It is, however, known for its beautiful nature, oil and gas production, and Native American heritage. Oklahoma can get really humid and hot at certain parts of the year, so people usually dress according to the weather. 

7. New Mexico

What do you wear in the desert, you ask? Layers are your go-to, as the weather can go from very hot to cool in the evening. This is another state where the cowboy style thrives. New Mexico natives are often seen wearing bohemian style as well. 

6. Nebraska

When reading about fashion in Nebraska, it’s very underwhelming. Not surprising, since they’re ranked in the top 10 of this fashion study of the least-obsessed states. The weather can be all over the place in Nebraska. Some days it can be super cold, and others very warm. And according to local blogs, you can experience multiple types of weather in a very short span of time, so fashion in Nebraska is simple and practical. Grab a hoodie and jeans, and you’re good to go. 

5. Wyoming

Wyoming is a very scenic state, but not a fashion-forward one. You might picture Wyoming as the Wild West – and the fashion lines up with that. Think cowboy hat and boots and a leather belt. There is much to do and see while in Wyoming between skiing and the national parks, and the style is pretty laid-back and practical, depending on the activity. 

4. Iowa

If you’re a resident of Iowa, then you probably know a lot about pork and corn production, but you might not think much about fashion. Despite being ranked as one of the least fashion-obsessed states, Iowa was listed as having the third best public fashion school in the U.S. on Fashion-Schools.org’s list. The Daily Iowan states, “Its robust apparel, merchandising, and design program offers modeling and fashion design opportunities, high-tech equipment and design software, and the chance to participate in an annual fashion show.” But outside of this, there isn’t much opportunity for fashion-related things. 

3. South Dakota

In a small survey by StyleSeat, South Dakota natives were asked about their top trending fashion pieces, and cowboy boots and acrylic nails were the biggest answer. The state’s radio station reporting about this survey joked, “While it's true that South Dakota might catch a ton of crap from people outside the state when it comes to our two favorite trends in terms of fashion and beauty, things could always be worse, we could be living in North Dakota! The most popular fashion trend up there right now is Crocs!”

2. North Dakota

I can’t say I know much about North Dakota. But it’s safe to say they aren’t worried about fashion, as they ranked second to last in this study. This prompted me to look up what North Dakota is known for, and it seems they’re the number one producer of honey. Their agriculture is a significant part of the state as they lead production of spring and durum wheat, dry edible beans and peas, flaxseed and canola. 

1. Hawaii

Known for its beautiful beaches and luau vibes, Hawaii is the hot spot for dream vacations. But it’s certainly not known for its fashion. Ranked at the very bottom of the study, Hawaii had the least interest in fashion out of all 50 states. They must simply find their beauty in nature!

Closing Thoughts

Fashion looks very different from state to state. In places where agriculture is a major part of life, there isn’t much focus on fashion, but rather practicality. Each state has its own charming qualities and something to appreciate. Places like New York are known for being fashion-obsessed, but once you hit the countryside, you still might trade in your high heels for some boots. 

Don’t miss anything! Sign up for our weekly newsletter and get curated content weekly!