Style Guide: Streetwear (Best Men’s Streetwear Clothing)

Streetwear is a fashion movement which takes inspiration from clothing styles derived by skateboarding, surf, hip hop, and retro 80s/90s influences. In modern times streetwear is seen as an urban style with brands such as Supreme, Palace, BAPE, Gosha, and Anti Social Social Club being at the very forefront. Look below for a most wanted list of the very best men’s streetwear clothing.

Streetwear was born out of the Los Angeles surf culture of the 70’s and 80’s. Surfboard designer Shaun Stussy began selling t-shirts printed with the same branding as his custom boards. Shaun’s definition of streetwear was to produce ‘subculturally diverse’ garments whilst mimicking the limited edition nature of luxury brands. Nike achieved domination of the streetwear sneaker market from the 90’s onwards due to the poaching of Michael Jordan from rival brand Adidas. Around this time Hip Hop culture also played a big role in streetwear through brands such as Carhartt and Timberland being prevalent in the wardrobes and music videos of both established and fledgling rappers. These hip hop stars were early pioneers of the best men’s streetwear clothing.

Recent times has seen luxury brands such as Fendi, Versace and Burberry providing an ever growing influence within streetwear and displaying premium examples of the best men’s streetwear clothing. The rise of ‘Instagram celebrities’ particularly those involved within the fashion scene has played a significant role within this amalgamation between premium fashion houses and skate culture streetwear brands. Collaborations such as the recent Supreme x Luis Vuitton collection has only fuelled this division of traditional fashion industry norms. The success of these collaborations as forms of best men’s streetwear clothing can be seen both through their adornment on the backs of Instagram influencers such as Gully Guy Leo and ubiquity within the streetwear resell market.

Master The Style

The best men’s streetwear clothing tends to both oversized and relaxed in nature. Colour matching is essential in creating an outfit which brings you to the envy of Hypebeasts. Accessories such as a silver pendant necklace and fisherman beanie incorporate seamlessly within a streetwear inspired outfit.

A flawless streetwear look will normally always incorporate oversized/longline hoodies, sweatshirts or T-shirts. Layering underneath a coach jacket/overshirt in warmer months and down jacket in colder times is a typical way of showing your streetwear credentials and displaying the best men’s streetwear clothing. A parka (bonus points for camouflage) can also be an alternative outerwear piece to round up your outfit.

Loose, rolled up above the ankle yet slightly tapered black jeans are the common legwear option for most streetwear enthusiasts. A pair of cargo trousers with the same fit in black, olive or camouflage are my preferred way of standing out whilst still ensuring a streetwear inspired look is achieved. The key within a successful outfit is to the ensure the components of the outfit blend immaculately with one another. Track pants can also be worn to a great deal of success however my recommendation would be to stick to vintage luxury houses such as Versace/Fendi or modern utilitarian inspired brands such as Cottweiler or A Cold Wall.

The footwear of choice should be either a pair of trainers or Timberlands boots for a more hip hop inspired look. A pair of vans are a classic item within streetwear due to the movements roots within skate culture. I personally prefer a pair of special edition Nike Air Max 90 such as the VT black suede or Ultra Moire. Nike Air Max 95 trainers in a limited edition colourway such as Anthracite can also look fantastic. For those with a higher budget a pair of Common Projects Achilles can be a great way to add some minimalism within your streetwear style. Find below a most wanted list of the best men’s streetwear clothing.