Is Streetwear Becoming High Fashion? A Look Back on How Streetwear Evolved and a Return to What Made It Appealing in the First Place
Streetwear has transformed from a niche subculture into a global fashion movement. Once rooted in skate, surf, and hip-hop communities, it is now a dominant force on high-fashion runways. But as streetwear continues to evolve, many wonder: is it still true to its origins? This article explores the rise, peak, and potential return of authentic streetwear. Origins of Streetwear Streetwear emerged in the 1980s, influenced by skateboarding, surf culture, and hip-hop. Shawn Stussy’s hand-printed T-shirts and the DIY attitude of early brands set the tone for what would become a billion-dollar industry. Streetwear in the 90s By the 1990s, brands like Supreme, A Bathing Ape (BAPE), and Stussy gained traction. Their limited-edition drops and underground marketing strategies made them highly...