Style Components of Streetwear Fashion

Streetwear has been around for quite some time now, but recently it has become a more prominent style with more people partaking in it to emulate “Hypebeast” trends. To start, streetwear is a fashion style that arose during the countercultures in the 1980s and 1990s which included the rise of hip-hop, skate, graffiti, and surf (strategyamd.hypebeast.com). Popular streetwear brands we are familiar with include Supreme, Off-White, and Comme de Garcons. Streetwear isn’t so much of a trend as it is an ever-evolving style that follows closely with pop culture we see every day. When you think of streetwear fashion, you may think of “logomania,” which is essentially when clothes are decked out in high-fashion labels; however, with its rise in popularity in recent years, you can find these styles at varying price points. In this article I will be sharing the different style components that contribute to the overall streetwear look!

1. Graphic T-Shirts

One of the first things that comes to mind regarding streetwear is baggy graphic tee-shirts. With this trend arising back in the 80s and 90s, vintage items such as quality graphic tee-shirts are the perfect piece to incorporate in a streetwear-inspired outfit. It is important that the tee-shirt is oversized, as it creates an overall androgynous, baggy silhouette that is a hallmark to the streetwear style.

2. Juxtaposition of Tailored Pieces

Another common component of streetwear style that is present especially in Asian streetwear is juxtaposing tailored pieces, such as a blazer or slacks, with casual items. I love this trend in particular because it is unexpected but still aesthetically pleasing when paired mindfully. Complimenting edgy pieces with clean businesswear results in a very stylish and modern look. We see this a lot in brands such as Gucci; creative director Alessandro Michele has incorporated streetwear into Haute Couture.

3. Sneakers

Sneakers are most likely the biggest component of streetwear fashion. Often, sneakers are even the focal point of an outfit. Trending sneakers today are chunky with varying aesthetic components. As I mentioned earlier, logos are a big deal in streetwear. So if the sneakers are sporting a Nike Swoosh or the notable Adidas stripes, chances are the pair will stylishly complete your streetwear look. Some popular streetwear sneakers that have been on-trend recently are Nike Air Jordan 1s, the Balenciaga Track Sneaker, and Adidas Yeezy Boost 350s.

4. Baggy Pants

I’m sure that when many of us think of streetwear fashion, our minds automatically think of the quintessential baggy silhouette. This comes as no surprise since streetwear fashion consists of many baggy pant styles whether it be sweatpants, baggy jeans, cargo pants, or oversized slacks. Baggy pants add a casual twist to any look and can actually be very chic and flattering if styled well. For example, baggy pants will elongate your legs if you pair it with a tight-fitting top. Or, paired with an oversized t-shirt, baggy pants transform into a more laid-back look.

5. Accessories

Just like with any style, accessorizing is very important, but this is especially so in streetwear. As I’ve mentioned, streetwear is a very fluid style. Even within the streetwear category there are a range of looks you can achieve, and that particular look you are trying to achieve greatly depends on the accessories you choose. If you are styling a more edgy look that closely resembles goth, metal hardware is a thoughtful addition to your streetwear outfit. You can do so by accessorizing with chain belts or chain necklaces. Whether it’s cold out or you just want to look cool, bucket hats are a great way to accessorize a streetwear fit. Given their rise in popularity, bucket hats come in endless patterns, colors, and fabrics. Just as well, no matter the streetwear look there is almost always a bag paired with it. Lately, shoulder bags have made a comeback and are available at every price point. Other bags that are common in streetwear are crossbody bags with thick straps, fanny packs, and big totes usually accompanied with a cool printed graphic.

Overall, streetwear fashion is an all-encompassing style and can translate to something different for everyone. I love most that streetwear fashion is what you make of it; I hope that you are inspired to style your own take on streetwear. Streetwear ultimately allows for all types of creativity and self-expression that is the hallmark of fashion as a whole, so never be afraid to try something new!

Sources: https://strategyand.hypebeast.com/streetwear-report-history-definition