The Origins and Evolution of Streetwear: A Story of Attitude, Politics, and Skateboarders

Prologue: The Dark Ages of Fashion

Once upon a time, the world of fashion was a bleak and desolate place. People roamed the streets in pleated khakis, oversized polos, and leather loafers. This was the era before streetwear, a time when the word "supreme" only referred to the highest court in the land, and not a clothing brand whose logo on a brick would make people go bananas.

Streetwear's Humble Beginnings: Surf's Up, Dude!

The origins of streetwear date back to the early 1980s, when a group of surfers and skateboarders in Southern California decided they needed something more comfortable, functional, and stylish to wear. Enter Shawn Stussy, a surfboard shaper who decided to slap his logo on some t-shirts, shorts, and caps. The result was a cult following, and the birth of the first true streetwear brand - Stussy.

But what is streetwear, exactly? Much like the meaning of life, it's hard to define. Some say it's a blend of sportswear and workwear, others say it's a statement of rebellion against the mainstream fashion industry. But for our purposes, let's just say streetwear is the fashion equivalent of a middle finger to the societal norms of dressing up.

Skateboarders Get on Board

As the 80s rolled on, the streetwear scene became synonymous with skateboarding culture. Brands like Vision Street Wear and Vans embraced the notion that fashion could also be functional, and started making clothes and shoes that catered to the needs of skateboarders. We're talking about baggy pants with enough pockets to store a small village, shoes that could withstand the daily grind of grip tape, and graphic t-shirts that let everyone know how much you hated "the man."

But it wasn't all fun and games. The rise of skateboarding culture brought with it a healthy dose of punk rock attitude, anti-establishment sentiment, and a general disdain for authority. This was the era of "skate and destroy," a time when the lines between fashion and politics became blurred. Streetwear wasn't just about looking cool, it was about making a statement.

From Niche to Mainstream: The 90s and Beyond

As the 90s approached, streetwear started to gain mainstream recognition. Brands like The North Face, Patagonia, and Timberland began incorporating elements of streetwear into their designs, and celebrities like Tupac Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G., and Aaliyah started embracing the aesthetic. Soon enough, streetwear became the uniform of choice for the youth in urban environments, and even found its way into the world of high fashion.

Fast forward to the present day, and streetwear has evolved into a multi-billion-dollar industry, with brands like Supreme, BAPE, and Off-White becoming household names. The lines between streetwear and high fashion have become increasingly blurred, with designers like Virgil Abloh and Gosha Rubchinskiy bridging the gap between the two worlds. Collaborations between streetwear brands and luxury fashion houses have become commonplace, with brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Dior embracing the streetwear aesthetic.

The Politics of Streetwear: Fashion as a Weapon

But let's not forget that streetwear at its core is still a political statement. The clothes we wear send a message about who we are, what we stand for, and how we perceive the world around us. Streetwear is a way for the disenfranchised to claim their space in a world that often tries to silence them. It's a form of resistance, a way to challenge the status quo, and a reminder that fashion can be more than just a superficial pursuit.

Take for example the rise of brands like FTP (F**k The Population) and NOAH, which use their clothing as a platform to address social and political issues like police brutality, climate change, and animal rights. The popularity of these brands is a testament to the fact that streetwear continues to be a powerful tool for self-expression and activism.

Practical Advice for the Aspiring Streetwear Enthusiast

So, you want to get into streetwear but don't know where to start? Fear not, for I have some valuable tips to help you navigate this fascinating world:

• Start with the basics: invest in some quality, versatile pieces like a good pair of sneakers, a nice bomber jacket, and a solid collection of graphic tees.
• Don't chase trends: streetwear is all about expressing your individuality, so focus on developing your personal style rather than trying to copy what everyone else is doing.
• Do your research: educate yourself on the history and culture of streetwear, familiarize yourself with different brands, and immerse yourself in the community. The more you know, the better equipped you'll be to make informed decisions about your wardrobe.
• Support local and independent brands: there's a lot of great talent out there, so don't be afraid to venture beyond the hype and discover something new.
• Remember that fashion is supposed to be fun: at the end of the day, wear what makes you happy and don't take yourself too seriously.

So there you have it, the abridged history of streetwear and some practical advice for those looking to dip their toes into this fascinating world. Remember, streetwear is more than just a fashion trend; it's a powerful form of self-expression and a testament to the fact that the clothes we wear can have a profound impact on the world around us. So go forth, young streetwear aficionado, and wear your rebellious spirit on your sleeve.

Article kindly provided by foreverinfashion.org