Originally popular among skaters and surfers who wanted to mix comfort with fashion, street wear casual clothing has now reached the mainstream. This trend is characterized by a blend of casual fashion and sportswear, infused with elements from hip hop culture and other subcultures like punk, grunge, and workwear. The result is a distinctive look that appeals to people of all ages and backgrounds.
Unlike traditional fashion, which relies on designers to dictate trends, streetwear flips this model on its head by using direct-to-consumer sales and social media-driven resale. This creates a tight-knit, almost cult-like relationship between brands and consumers. For example, Supreme box logo crewnecks that cost $158 in retail then resell for $500 or more on the secondary market. This dynamic also enables consumers of varying income levels to buy into the movement, as low retail prices give entry points for buyers from all walks of life.
Many successful streetwear brands have strong links to the cultures from which they emerged. For example, musicians are the most credible influencers with young streetwear fans (65% of those surveyed in PwC’s Global Consumer Insights Survey), followed by social-media influencers and other young urban consumers they see around them. In addition, these brands are embracing sustainability by offering environmentally friendly products.
While the best way to style streetwear depends on your personal preference and lifestyle, some tips for creating a stylish look include wearing a hoodie with camo pants and sneakers. The key is to get the fit right — it should be loose enough that you can comfortably stretch out but not so loose that it looks sloppy. Then, top off the look with a denim jacket or bomber, and a hat in a matching color or pattern.
Another great option is to go for a track suit outfit. This can be a full Champion sweatsuit with matching crew neck and joggers, or it could simply be a classic stripped Adidas track set. The trick is to stick with neutral colors — black, tan and olive are good choices for men. Toss on a pair of sunglasses and a hat, and you’ve got a head-turning look.