Streetwear has grown into a global fashion phenomenon, blending casual comfort with a cool, edgy style. For men, streetwear offers an opportunity to express personality while staying trendy and laid-back. But it's not as simple as throwing on a hoodie and sneakers—it’s an art of balance, blending practicality and flair. In this blog, we’ll explore what streetwear is, break down key ideas for incorporating it into your wardrobe, and even highlight some of the best streetwear brands available in India.
Image Courtesy: Pintrest
Streetwear originated in the late 1970s and early 1980s, emerging from subcultures like skateboarding, surfing, and hip-hop. It’s a style that champions individuality and comfort while making a statement. Key elements include graphic tees, oversized fits, sneakers, and other casual pieces, which are often combined with high-fashion or avant-garde items.
Although streetwear started as an underground movement, it has evolved into a mainstream fashion trend, with brands like Supreme, Off-White, and Nike blending street style with luxury. What makes streetwear so appealing is its ability to be both stylish and functional. Whether you're running errands or going out with friends, it’s a style that allows you to stay comfortable without sacrificing a cool, laid-back vibe.
Streetwear might appear casual, but it's more than just wearing sweats and sneakers. Achieving the right streetwear look requires intention and balance. You need to mix high and low elements—like pairing a graphic tee with quality joggers or wearing a utility vest with fitted cargo pants.
Quality Matters: While streetwear is casual, that doesn’t mean cheap. Investing in durable, well-made pieces ensures your wardrobe will last, and the fit will look good.
Balance is Key: Streetwear is often oversized, but pairing baggy pants with a loose shirt can make you look sloppy. Balance oversized items with more fitted pieces to keep your look sharp.
Sneaker Culture: Footwear is the foundation of streetwear, and owning a solid pair of sneakers can elevate your entire look. Whether you're into classic high-tops or more contemporary designs, sneakers should be the centerpiece of your outfit.
Colors and Prints: While streetwear allows for creative self-expression, going too wild with logos and patterns can be overwhelming. Start with neutral tones and add pops of color or a graphic tee for balance.
Layering: Streetwear isn’t just about single items; layering plays a huge role. Think about pairing your favorite hoodie with a flannel or adding a puffer jacket over a basic tee.
If you're looking to step up your streetwear game, here are five must-try ideas that blend style, comfort, and versatility.
When putting together a streetwear outfit, start from the ground up. Sneakers are the foundation of streetwear fashion, and they deserve to be highlighted. Pair all-black outfits with a standout pair of white Nikes or opt for bold-colored sneakers that pop against muted clothing. Sneakers like Air Jordans, Yeezys, or Converse Chuck Taylors are timeless options that give your look an effortless cool vibe.
Image Courtesy: Ape to gentelment
Cargo pants are both practical and stylish, making them a staple in any streetwear wardrobe. Choose baggy, oversized cargo pants in neutral tones like beige, olive green, or black, and pair them with a fitted top or hoodie. This combo balances the bulk of the pants while keeping the look grounded in streetwear’s utilitarian roots. Brands like Carhartt and Alpha Industries offer high-quality options that last and look great.
A single graphic tee can transform a simple outfit into a statement. From retro band tees to bold logos, graphic tees are versatile, fun, and allow for self-expression. The key is to let the graphic shine by keeping the rest of your outfit simple—try pairing a vintage graphic tee with jeans and a bomber jacket for an effortlessly cool look.
Hoodies are the essence of streetwear, offering both comfort and style. Choose an oversized hoodie in neutral tones or with a minimal graphic design. Layer it with a lightweight jacket or flannel for added depth, or go with a monochrome look by pairing it with joggers or jeans. Hoodies allow for endless versatility and can easily be dressed up or down depending on your mood.
Image Courtesy: Lezhou
Utility vests and jackets are a great way to introduce layering into your streetwear look. Choose materials like canvas or denim in muted, earthy tones and wear them over a basic tee or hoodie. Not only do these pieces add texture and dimension to your outfit, but they also offer practical functionality with multiple pockets for carrying essentials.
Image Courtesy: Pintrest
The streetwear trend is booming globally, and India is no exception. Several homegrown and international brands cater to the growing demand for this style, blending traditional elements with modern street aesthetics. Here are some top streetwear brands in India you should check out:
A relatively young brand, Jaywalking has quickly established itself as a favorite among India's streetwear enthusiasts. Known for its oversized fits and bold, deconstructed designs, Jaywalking is perfect for those who want to make a fashion statement.
Nought One is a Delhi-based label that draws inspiration from both Indian and global street cultures. The brand focuses on functional designs, technical fabrics, and unique silhouettes, offering a fresh take on streetwear with a modern, urban twist.
VegNonVeg is India’s first multi-brand sneaker store, offering a curated selection of global sneaker brands like Nike, Adidas, and Vans. Known for its sneaker drops and exclusive collaborations, this brand is the go-to spot for anyone looking to build a strong streetwear foundation through footwear.
Capsul is a multi-brand streetwear store that brings the best of global street fashion to India. Featuring top international brands like Stüssy, HUF, and Pleasures, Capsul offers a wide range of streetwear essentials, from graphic tees to oversized hoodies.
Six5Six Street, a sub-label of the sports brand Six5Six, offers contemporary streetwear with a unique blend of Indian and global influences. Their bold, graphic-heavy designs are perfect for those looking to add some flair to their everyday outfits.