The Evolution of Street Style: From Counterculture to mainstream
Street style isn't a new phenomenon. Its roots can be traced back to the gritty pavement of post-war cities where the youth began expressing themselves through clothing as a form of cultural rebellion. Today, it's one of the most influential aspects of the fashion industry, with its influence extending from the streets to high-end design studios.
Street style's early beginnings can be traced back to the Teddy Boys in 1950s Britain, who wore drape jackets, drainpipe trousers, and brothel creepers- an overt rejection of the austerity that the country was facing post-World War II. This style, influenced heavily by Edwardian period’s menswear and American rock n roll, was one of the earliest forms of youth-driven counterculture fashion.
From there, each decade saw its own counterculture style movement, each markedly different from the last, but all representing a unique aspect of youth culture and a revolt against societal norms. The 60s had the mods and rockers, the 70s had punk, the 80s, the new romantics, and so on.
By the 90s, the rise of the digital age and the influence of hip-hop saw the rise of logo-heavy sportswear and athletic shoes which were initially popular within inner-city communities but eventually spilled over to mainstream fashion. Streetwear brands like Supreme, Bape and Stussy were no longer just niche cult-brands but became universally sought-after.
In the era of Instagram, street style has taken on a new dimension. It's not just an expression of one's individuality anymore, but also a game of who can grab more eyeballs. This shift can also be witnessed during the fashion weeks around the world where it's not just about the collections showcased within the hallowed halls of high-fashion, but also about the eclectic array of outfits donned by attendees, bloggers and influencers on the streets outside.
Street style has become a legitimate aspect of the fashion industry, with fashion houses and high-street brands alike taking inspiration from it. It reflects the zeitgeist of fashion in a way that no runway can. The once clear lines between high fashion and street style have blurred, with both borrowing elements from one another.
It will be interesting to see how street style continues to evolve. With the current global scenario pushing us towards a more casual and comfort-oriented aesthetic, the influence of street style is stronger than ever. One thing's for sure -street style isn't going anywhere anytime soon. It will continue to be a testament to the power of youth culture and fashion's ever-evolving nature.
Street style's early beginnings can be traced back to the Teddy Boys in 1950s Britain, who wore drape jackets, drainpipe trousers, and brothel creepers- an overt rejection of the austerity that the country was facing post-World War II. This style, influenced heavily by Edwardian period’s menswear and American rock n roll, was one of the earliest forms of youth-driven counterculture fashion.
From there, each decade saw its own counterculture style movement, each markedly different from the last, but all representing a unique aspect of youth culture and a revolt against societal norms. The 60s had the mods and rockers, the 70s had punk, the 80s, the new romantics, and so on.
By the 90s, the rise of the digital age and the influence of hip-hop saw the rise of logo-heavy sportswear and athletic shoes which were initially popular within inner-city communities but eventually spilled over to mainstream fashion. Streetwear brands like Supreme, Bape and Stussy were no longer just niche cult-brands but became universally sought-after.
In the era of Instagram, street style has taken on a new dimension. It's not just an expression of one's individuality anymore, but also a game of who can grab more eyeballs. This shift can also be witnessed during the fashion weeks around the world where it's not just about the collections showcased within the hallowed halls of high-fashion, but also about the eclectic array of outfits donned by attendees, bloggers and influencers on the streets outside.
Street style has become a legitimate aspect of the fashion industry, with fashion houses and high-street brands alike taking inspiration from it. It reflects the zeitgeist of fashion in a way that no runway can. The once clear lines between high fashion and street style have blurred, with both borrowing elements from one another.
It will be interesting to see how street style continues to evolve. With the current global scenario pushing us towards a more casual and comfort-oriented aesthetic, the influence of street style is stronger than ever. One thing's for sure -street style isn't going anywhere anytime soon. It will continue to be a testament to the power of youth culture and fashion's ever-evolving nature.