Although some streetwear brands cater for both genders or are unisex, streetwear fashion is predominantly still linked to menswear. Other characteristics of streetwear style include contemporary art, logos, and of course comfort.
Perhaps most importantly, streetwear fashion is not a uniform. The streetwear scene developed from DIY and counter culture. You can take the bits that speak to you, and ditch anything that does not appeal to you.
In this blog, we will offer up a few suggestions on how you can use streetwear fashion to create your own style.
If you’re going to style a streetwear outfit, first you need to know a few of the key streetwear pieces you should have in your wardrobe.
HOODIES
Apart from sneakers, hoodies are perhaps the most worn streetwear staple.
A streetwear hoodie may be zipped or pulled on. It could have a large logo on the back or a big front pouch for convenience. Perhaps for throwing on to head to the gym or out for a run, they can be outerwear or provide an extra layer under a puffer coat or bomber jacket. We offer a huge range of hoodies in shades from classic black and off-white, to Coral, Cobalt, and Pastel Lilac.
SWEATSHIRTS & SWEATPANTS
In a similar vein, sweatshirts and sweatpants form the basis for many a streetwear outfit. Most sweatshirts are cotton and crew neck. They too, may sport large logos or be left clean and simple.
The slightly oversized fit Owners Club Sweater – Ash Grey is a classic piece in a wearable shade. Super soft and comfortable, it’s also easy to pair with jeans or cargo trousers.
Alternatively, style with matching sweatpants, a contrasting tee and our Harrier Vintage White sneakers.
CARGO PANTS
One of the most recognisable elements of the streetwear fashion style is the cargo pant. Our Military Pant V2 in Olive is a contemporary, lightweight take on the look. You still have all the key elements of a cargo pant, including the abundance of cargo pockets. They’re just in a new slimmer silhouette to keep you looking fresh and modern. Wear with graphic tees or an everyday T-Shirt in Flat White.
JEANS
Whether baggy or skinny, jeans are a big part of streetwear fashion. Shredded and distressed jeans, such as our Essential Denim – Paint Black another style that should be in your wardrobe.
T-SHIRTS
T-shirts can be used to make a statement or to create an effortless streetwear outfit. The Raglan Blanks tee lends itself to the latter. Available with long or short sleeves, this versatile piece comes in black or white with contrasting shoulder panels in a heavyweight cotton jersey. Slightly oversized, the ribbed hem and cuffs offer a comfort fit.
SNEAKERS
Sneakers are an integral part of the streetwear aesthetic. Your battered old kicks won’t do. Instead, invest in some classic-style footwear that will complement any streetwear outfit.
Our Apex collection features premium sneakers in a mix of tumbled and flat leather. The zig-zag stitching, suede uppers, and leather piping are reminiscent of vintage basketball elements. You can also switch up the laces to change your look, with Vintage White and Black both included.
DRESS FOR THE OCCASION
You may have heard the phrase a ‘Canadian Tuxedo’ when referring to double denim outfits. The idea is, of course, that Canadians wear so much denim that they will even wear it as formal wear.
The streetwear equivalent may well be cargo pants, graphic tees, and expensive sneakers.
However, be sure to keep in mind where you are going and who will be there. For example, our As Good As Dead Hoodie looks great under most circumstances, but would be wildly inappropriate for a wedding reception, let alone a funeral!
Instead, go for Tailored Pants and black shoes, such as the Alpha Low Triple Black and a crisply ironed shirt.
PAY ATTENTION TO THE WEATHER
Simply put, it’s hard to look cool if you’re freezing. Likewise sweating buckets (outside of a strenuous workout) is not a good look.
Look for breathable fabrics, and water-resistant technology to help you complete the assignment without having to battle the elements. We’ve got plenty of winter fits and all-weather items to keep you on track.
HOW STREETWEAR BECAME A FASHION STYLE
Although it’s thought to have its roots in the post-War era, it was skaters and surfers, and the emergence of hip hop, that brought streetwear into popular culture.
In contrast to the sometimes stiff and starched look of a suit and tailoring, streetwear combined form and function with freedom of expression. It not only looked great but, crucially, it allowed the wearer to move. These are still the same principles that the best streetwear clothing follows today.
And streetwear style is continuously evolving, along with streetwear culture. Hip hop fashion has continued to influence streetwear labels and vice versa. However, you can now find streetwear haute couture. Now, rare, high-fashion items are collected by ‘hypebeasts’ who will pay megabucks for a limited edition baseball cap or sneakers.
High-fashion brand Louis Vuitton is well known for collaborations, including 2017’s collab with Supreme. At the time of writing, the Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 by Virgil Abloh Sneaker is selling at $90,000 USD. With further collaborations expected, and other haute couture designers following suit, the high fashion phase of streetwear style shows no signs of winding down anytime soon.
In the meantime, hip hop culture and counter-culture will keep menswear looking fresh and feeling personal.