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Reason: Needs to be adjusted to distinguish between the actual region and an aesthetic inspired by New England

New England is a region comprising six states in the northeastern United States: Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. It centers on coastal-northeastern life. Some themes associated are both maritime and mountainous landscapes and activities, New England famous foods, and a unique charm that brings about a cozy feeling.

While the New England aesthetic shares aspects with many others, what sets it apart is its cultural significance. It's fashion, for example, is heavily influenced by the Old Money and Preppy aesthetics because of its historical ties to these communities. However, New England fashion also mixes in elements of Nautical, due to its location on the East Coast and even some historical elements, as many of the towns and cities date back to the colonial era.

History[]

The history of New England dates back to the colonial era, when, in 1620, the Pilgrims established Plymouth Colony. Ten years later, Puritans established Massachusetts Bay Colony north of Plymouth Colony. These settlements are still around today and heavily influence the visuals and values of the aesthetic. For example, the Protestant work ethic displayed by the Puritans drives ideas of self-reliance and hard work.

Additionally, New England was the location of many key events in the American Revolution, such as the Boston Tea Party and the battles of Lexington and Concord, where the first shots were fired. To this day, the value of independence and patriotic spirit is strong in New England and many towns have historical districts with period-typical architecture.

Visuals[]

The visuals of this aesthetic have a heavy focus on historic architecture, as well as the landscape of the region. Some examples include:

  • Federal-style brick houses and row homes
  • Wooden colonial-era cabins
  • Churches, especially in the congregational style
  • Meeting houses and old government buildings
  • Large shipping ports
  • Sailboats
  • Forests
  • Long, winding roads
  • Covered bridges
  • Piers
  • Beaches

Fashion[]

New Englanders typically prefer a classic, timeless and preppy look. Conservative styles and colors are the go-to. Some staples of New England fashion include:

  • Dark and light denim
  • White jeans
  • Trench coats
  • Button-down shirts
  • Sweaters

Earth tones and muted colors are the typical choice for this aesthetic. Accessories are kept simple and don't distract from the rest of the outfit. Sunglasses, a belt, and simple jewelry are all you need. Layering is another New England trend that is used, especially during chillier months.

Brands[]

Vineyard Vines Patagonia Lacoste Hunter
Sperry North Face Barbour Brooks Brothers
Ralph Lauren L.L. Bean Lauren James Smathers & Branson
J. Crew Tommy Hilfiger Kate Spade Tory Burch

Culture[]

Food[]

  • Lobster
  • New England Clam Chowder
  • Whoopie Pies
  • Blueberries
  • Brown Bread
  • Boston Cream Pie
  • Cranberries
  • Fluffernutter
  • Moxie (Soda)
  • Steamed Hamburgers
  • Maple Syrup

Activities[]

  • Sailing
  • Apple Picking
  • Leaf Peeping
  • Hiking

Media & Art[]

Books[]

  • The Secret History by Donna Tartt
  • Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
  • The Crucible by Arthur Miller
  • Empire Falls by Richard Russo
  • The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne
  • Moby Dick by Herman Melville
  • Walden by Henry David Thoreau
  • Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman
  • The Poetry of Robert Frost
  • 'Salem's Lot by Stephen King
  • Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
  • Our Town by Thornton Wilder
  • A Treasury of New England Folklore by B.A. Botkin

Movies[]

  • Jaws (1975)
  • On Golden Pond (1981)
  • Clue (1985)
  • One Crazy Summer (1986)
  • Beetlejuice (1988)
  • Funny Farm (1988)
  • Mystic Pizza (1988)
  • Mermaids (1990)
  • What About Bob? (1991)
  • The Spitfire Grill (1996)
  • Good Will Hunting (1997)
  • Para-Norman (2012)
  • Kill Your Darlings (2013)
  • Knives Out (2019)

Publications (with Websites)[]

Art and Artists[]

  • Norman Rockwell
  • Schooner Fare
  • William Billings
  • Edward Hopper
  • The Wyeth Family: N.C., Henriette, Carolyn, Andrew, Jamie, and spouses
  • James Welling

Music and Songs[]

  • "Nantucket" by The Longest Johns
  • "Chester" by William Billings
  • "When Fall Comes To New England" by Cheryl Wheeler
  • "Portland Town" by Schooner Fare

Other[]

  • Yankee magazine
  • Down East magazine
  • Bert & I records
  • Family Guy (1999)

Gallery[]

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