Streetwear is a type of fashion that is hard to define. It encompasses an umbrella of themes and styles. Enthusiasts love to create their own distinct style from a wide range of cultures. It is a fusion of almost anything… sportswear, skate gear, Arab and Ethiopian aesthetics, denim jackets, and even high fashion. The beauty of streetwear is that you can combine anything you want and create a style that is unique.
Here are six tips to achieve a stylish look in streetwear
1. Upgrade your fabrics
Gone are the days when streetwear was all about being sporty or military. Modern streetwear has evolved over the years and most designers are working on unique, colorful high-quality pieces.
Today, updating to premium fabrics is the key to standing out from the crowd. Multicolor prints and patterns have colonized the street already. For instance, there are African-inspired denim jackets and dresses, making streetwear more lively and unique. Also, designers have improved typical men’s t-shirts and boyfriend oversized shirts, for instance by adding tribal patterns to high-quality fabric.
2. Sneakers are a must-have
When it comes to achieving stylish streetwear, shoes will make the outfit – and sneakers are your best option. They complement any clothing you want to wear, including dresses, denim, all-black outfits, and shirts with jeans. So make sure to have several pairs of sneakers in your wardrobe to complete your daily streetwear outfit.
3. Go for loose fits
Teenagers don’t have to stress about their silhouette. Thus, they can go for oversized garments. But for those who are entering their dad-bod stage in life, loose fits are not such good options. The key is to opt for a top half silhouette that is more relaxed but does not look like a tent with legs.
But when it comes to pulling off below-the-belt, it can be quite easy. You can opt for straight-leg shapes to slim fits as this offers more comfort and movement.
4. Keep it simple
Streetwear is all about mixing and matching pieces of different cultures that together can reflect your personality, interests, and allegiances. But this does not mean that you have to go flashy from head to toe, a style often used by social media influencers.
Instead, you can rock tribal prints and statements. Consider pairing stuff that shows creativity. For instance, multicolor shirts can be paired with monotone bottoms or perhaps maxi dress with tribal prints can be paired with plain sneakers. But try to avoid dressing like a lookbook.
5. Don’t be afraid to layer
In the fashion industry, layering can be a nuanced art. With the right layering, an ordinary outfit can stand out in the streets. It is not easy though to master how to layer your clothing. Just like learning how to achieve a striking makeup look, this takes time and effort.
To get started, you have to stick to simple colors, such as grey, white, and black. To achieve a cleaner effect, make sure to use thinner inner layers than the outer ones. Moreover, try using contrasting hues. For instance, you can try brighter, multicolor prints with your outer layers and use layering to create an extraordinary silhouette.
Important Note: If you are thinking of layering black clothes, choose the right tones of black so your outfit won’t look awkward. You can get inspiration from reputable fashion designers and celebrities to create a winning layered outfit.
6. Add a bit of extra to your outfit
Things can get a bit more interesting if you add something extra to your outfit. And one of the most preferred additions is headwear. Snapback is the classic choice. But today, bucket hats are growing in popularity.
Some people consider hats as the ultimate finishing touch to their streetwear fashion because this is where they can bring some uniqueness. But there are other finishing touches to consider. These include a belt, a necklace, wristbands, watches, and earrings. Always remember to avoid becoming rigid in your choice of outfit.
When dressing for the street, your comfort is of utmost importance. You don’t want to walk down the street in clothing that restricts your movement, such as tight-fitting shirts or shoes. After that, discover ways to express yourself – which is actually the beauty and aim of street style. Integrate your own look and style to the overflowing pot of fashion that is found on crossings, walls, benches, and pavements.
Author’s Bio: Ethiopian-born and Dubai-based fashion designer Feiruza Mudessir discovered her curiosity to mix the traditional with contemporary at a young age, and this has become the trademark of her designs today. When you slip into one of Feiruza’s creations, you can almost hear the rhythms of Africa, the beats of India and the vibrancy of Dubai – this distinctive and colourful mélange is just what Finchitua is about.