Streetwear is the term used for a genre of fashion that has its roots in urban subcultures. It is thought to have started towards the end of the 1970s and borrows from the looks sported by underground movements, from skaters to hip-hop fans.

That means streetwear is not a fixed style. It is fluid and constantly evolving, as new street subcultures with their own take on image appear.

There are some fairly consistent elements though. It usually involves comfortable loose-fit clothes bearing bright graphic print designs. When it comes to accessorizing, caps, beanies, shades and jewelry are frequent choices.

Streetwear Style Examples

Below you can see some of the clothes that will help you to achieve a streetwear look in 2024.

Bell-Bottoms

Streetwear continues to be influenced by 70’s and 80’s fashion trends. This is where we are introduced to Bell-bottom jeans due to their relaxed style. To stand apart from other streetwear styles bell-bottoms should be a staple in your wardrobe as you get both the masculine fitted and flared look all in one.  

For a more modern twist on this 80s trend, you can choose patchwork bell-bottom jeans with their trendy unique patterns. 

Bomber Jackets

These began to be seen among hipsters on the streets of New York and other cities last year. That means they were always set to graduate to the heart of streetwear fashion by 2024.

And lo and behold, designers such as Supreme have launched bomber jackets for this year. The options range from high-grade leather to woven materials, but any bomber jacket will let you capture the look of the streets.

It should be paired with jeans and either sneakers or working boots. Accessorize it with boldly colored graphic designs, patches or badges.

Stacked Jeans

These are at the heart of the street style just now. That said, stacked denims have been on the scene since the beginning of the 2000s.

Therefore, they have remained central to streetwear for a surprisingly long time. The look of stacked jeans is rooted in hip-hop fashion, and they have been worn by many prominent rappers.

Their introduction saw a shaking up of conventional denims, as people sought more rebellious and individual styles. They are often paired with bright graphic print t-shirts or hooded tops, sneakers and a cap.

Over-engineered sneakers

Over-engineered sneakers mark the next evolution in street footwear styles, taking over from the ‘ugly’ sneaker trend. The new shoes are as visually busy and decorated as their predecessors, but less bulky.

They are a sleeker continuation rather than a whole new look. Key examples include the Sacai LD Waffle from Nike, which has replaced the Balenciaga Triple S as a must-have sneaker on the streets.

It can be worn happily with the stacked jeans and bomber jacket look. You won’t need to accessorize your sneakers, as they are colorful enough already.

Should You Go With Streetwear Styles?

Now you know what some of the current street styles are, but should you add them to your wardrobe? The answer is yes.

The great thing about streetwear is that it is bold and dynamic without needing too much effort. That is because it has its origins in clothes worn by people who don’t have much money.

Streetwear has always been about making that into a positive by putting a personal spin on high street items like t-shirts, jeans and jackets. These are customized with striking graphic prints and other accessories to create edgy looks.

What this means is that you can embrace streetwear even if your budget is tight. That is not really the case with high fashion, which prices most people out.

The dominance of staple items also means that streetwear looks never go completely out of style. The fact that stacked denims first rose to prominence on the streets 20 years ago and are still worn today is proof of that.

Finally, streetwear lets you exercise your creativity. It is up to you to mix and match its essential elements in new ways.

This style allows you to choose accessories and customized print designs that suit your personality too. It is the most playful form of fashion.

Everyone with an interest in clothes should add some street styles to their wardrobes. It is a fun and affordable fashion choice.