It can't just be us that has noticed the influence of the streets growing in visibility in wider pop culture. Whether it's the portrayal or mimicry of street culture - we see it in music, art, social media, language, advertising, cinema - even video games.
Nowhere does the culture have more clout and influence than in fashion. Way deeper than aesthetics: The transition from mocking 'chavs' and 'hoodies' and urban myths of racist brand owners - to now brands of the calibre of Gucci, Dior and LV designing specifically to appeal to that same audience, is as jarring and ironic as it sounds.
Some people would say this is a good thing that premium brands are now designing 'inclusively' and with us normal people in mind.
Others might say that these brands are cheeky, and only come to the roads and the streetwear scene to steal ideas before watering them down and acting like pioneers.
Not me though, I would never say that.
Anyway, some recent history on streetwear 'eritage and influence:
Streetwear has always been a part of popular culture, but in the last decade, its influence on fashion has grown immensely. Street culture, which encompasses a range of subcultures such as hip-hop, skateboarding, and graffiti, has heavily influenced fashion trends and styles. From oversized hoodies to designer sneakers, the fashion industry has incorporated streetwear elements into high-end fashion, blurring the lines between streetwear and luxury fashion.
The rise of streetwear can be traced back to the early 2000s, with the emergence of brands such as Supreme, A Bathing Ape, and Stussy. These brands were heavily influenced by hip-hop and skateboarding culture, and their bold logos and graphic designs quickly gained popularity among young people. In recent years, these brands have become more mainstream, with collaborations with high-end fashion brands such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci.
Sustainable fashion is another trend that has been influenced by street culture. In recent years, there has been a growing demand for sustainable fashion, with consumers becoming more conscious about the impact of fashion on the environment. Streetwear brands have responded to this demand by incorporating sustainable materials and production methods into their designs. Brands such as Patagonia, which has long been known for its sustainable practices, and newer brands like Girlfriend Collective, which uses recycled plastic bottles to make leggings, are leading the way in sustainable streetwear.
Custom clothing is another area where the culture has had a significant influence. The rise of social media has made it easier for people to express themselves and showcase their personal style. Custom clothing allows individuals to create unique pieces that reflect their personality and interests. Brands such as Nike and Adidas have embraced this trend, offering customers the ability to customise their sneakers with unique designs and colours.
The influence of street culture on fashion in the last decade has been immense. Streetwear has become a global phenomenon, with brands and designers incorporating elements of street culture into their designs. Sustainable fashion and custom clothing are two areas where street culture has had a significant impact, reflecting the growing demand for individuality and sustainability in fashion. As street culture continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how it will shape the fashion industry in the years to come. Even more interesting, will be how much more equity the creators and pioneers of the culture have at that time.
Wear something fun tomorrow.
References:
- https://www.highsnobiety.com/p/the-most-important-streetwear-brands/
- https://www.vogue.com/article/sustainable-streetwear-brands-you-should-know
- https://www.vox.com/the-goods/2019/4/10/18290383/custom-clothing-etsy-nike-adidas
- https://www.voguebusiness.com/fashion/how-to-keep-streetwear-relevant-in-the-2020s