What defines the Streetwear style?

What are the characteristics of Streetwear style?

Streetwear is a term that has been repeated in various configurations for years. In this context, it refers to fashion, subculture, and above all, a lifestyle. But what exactly is this concept that is taking the world by storm? Can it really be used freely, or are there guidelines that define this phenomenon? Who deserves to be called a true streetwear enthusiast? We will try to answer all these questions and introduce a style that defines people regardless of where they were born.

What does streetwear mean and how did it all start?

Streetwear can be loosely translated as what the street wears. The phenomenon originated in sunny California. It was there that young people, spending time in large cities, eagerly met in various places and looked for their favorite activities. What did they do? They rode skateboards, surfed, painted graffiti on walls, and listened to hip-hop. Streetstyle emerged as a reaction to more formal and classic fashion styles, offering an alternative to what was conventional. It expressed itself in a specific approach to everyday life. The focus was on ease, spending time with friends, and seeking everything that brings joy. It was an expression of cutting off from chasing a career and fully dedicating oneself to the demands imposed by the world. In this way, a subculture was born, for which both lifestyle and what its representatives wore were important. Streetwear style was associated with wearing oversized hoodies, low-crotch pants, and sports sneakers. Over time, this trend was picked up by small clothing brands, which began producing special clothing for "angry young people." They featured colorful prints inspired by graffiti, catchy slogans, and original details.

First streetwear brands, or who set the trends

Currently, street fashion is associated with global giants such as Nike, Adidas, and New Balance. However, before corporations picked up on the trend, there were pioneers. Companies noticed that the emerging subculture was not a fleeting fascination, and the planted seed was bearing fruit. Young people wanted to look like their fans, i.e., icons associated with skate and hip-hop music. Streetwear knows examples of many brands that sensed that the production of hoodies, caps, and shoes would become a real goldmine for them. Some of them remained niche forever, others transformed into global giants and found many imitators. So, who started this collective craze?

• Founded in 1980 by Shawn Stüssy, the Stüssy brand is one of the first to contribute to the emergence of streetwear. It started as a skateboard company and later also ventured into clothing. This led to designs with the characteristic Stüssy signature logo. The brand pioneered the blending of surfing, skateboarding, and hip-hop culture with street fashion.
• The phrase streetwear skate is inextricably linked with the Supreme brand. Founded in 1994 by James Jebbia, the clothing company has become one of the most influential streetwear brands in the world. The first store in New York quickly became a destination for people from all over the United States. The Supreme brand also introduced the concept of "drops," i.e., limited editions, which generate enormous interest.
• The X-LARGE brand also played an important role in defining what streetwear means. The company was founded in 1991 by Eliot Hansen and Adam Silverman. It originated from skateboarding and hip-hop culture, and its characteristic elephant logo became recognizable beyond the United States. X-LARGE had a significant impact on the development of streetwear in the 90s, combining street style with sports elements.
• BAPE, short for A Bathing Ape, is a name known to many street fashion fans. The brand was founded in 1993 in Tokyo by Nigo (Tomoaki Nagao). Although it is a Japanese brand, its influence on American streetwear was enormous. BAPE is famous for its iconic "Ape Head" pattern, bright colors, and references to popular cartoons. The brand gained popularity due to a large fan base, including many celebrities and musicians.

How to dress in streetwear style?

Street fashion is primarily about ease and freedom. However, this does not mean that you can wear anything you want. Although there is no single defined set of rules, there are several characteristic elements worth considering to achieve an authentic streetwear look. Clothes such as hoodies are characterized by an oversized form. Oversize definitely reigns here. The point is that nothing should restrict movement. After all, skaters wear such things. Clothes should also be baggy so that they can be used to cover up. Hence the popularity of hoods that can be pulled over the head. Although streetwear distances itself from so-called logomania, it is still important to choose brands that are clearly associated with this style. You can successfully mix designs from an international giant like Nike with young Polish brands, such as the recently popular MISBHV. Streetwear fashion is a style that gives great freedom to express one's personality and creativity. Don't be afraid to experiment, combine different elements, and create your own unique combinations that best reflect your individual taste and lifestyle. Streetwear is a way to express yourself and feel comfortable, so draw inspiration from trends, but always maintain authenticity in it.

Sneakers, the foundation of street fashion

The key element of a streetwear wardrobe is the right shoes. It can be safely said that without a pair of sneakers, there's no talk of a style fitting this trend. They give character to what you wear. Limited pairs of Nike Air Jordan or New Balance are often something to hunt for like the most important trophy. What are the most important streetwear brands that produce shoes suitable for street fashion?

• Already mentioned Nike is one of the most iconic sneaker brands in the world. The company is known for models such as Air Max, Air Jordan, Dunk, and Air Force 1. In addition to its basic lines, the corporation also undertakes many collaborations with artists, athletes, and musicians.
• Adidas is another global brand that has significantly contributed to the popularity of sneakers. Their Originals line includes models such as Stan Smith, Superstar, and Gazelle. All of them have become icons of street fashion.
• Converse All Star, also known as Chucks, is an iconic sneaker model. Known for their classic, minimalist aesthetic, Chucks are popular among both youth and celebrities.
• New Balance is a brand known for comfortable running shoes that have also made their way into street fashion over time. Their models, such as the 550 and 990, are globally loved pairs that have seen many limited editions.

Do you want to complete your streetwear wardrobe? In the SHEZAMME store, you will find fashionable hoodies, accessories, and limited editions of top sneaker models. Follow us regularly and catch upcoming opportunities.