Elevate your usual jeans and kicks effortlessly.
Fashion is ever-evolving. It influences trends and cultures and at the same time is influenced by it and its surroundings, giving room for people to have their own spin on it. It is what makes fashion fun and exciting.
No two people can have the same style, the same way that two styles that may seem similar are actually different with their own distinct characteristics and cultural significance. Which is the case for street wear and casual wear.
Street wear vs. casual wear
Street wear is literally what people wear on the street, deeply rooted in urban culture and often influenced by music, art, and youth cultural movements. Originally rooted in the surf, skate, hip-hop, and punk cultures of the 1980s and ‘90s, street wear evokes the rebellious spirit of youth that has evolved to include a variety of influences, thus, making it diverse and inclusive.
Casual wear, on the other hand, is a more understated style that is characterized by its simplicity, comfort, and versatility. Leaning more towards classic and timeless pieces that are versatile and functional, that fit day-to-day lives such as going to work, running errands, or going out with friends.
Elements of street style
Street wear represents more than just clothing. It is a lifestyle and a form of self-expression; showcasing a unique identity through fashion, and by being bold, creative, and apologetically yourself.
The elements of street wear are distinguished by bold designs and textures, graphic prints, and often oversized and unique silhouettes, which can be achieved with:
• Graphic tees. T-shirts are a staple to achieve all subtypes of casual wear, however, with street wear it often features logos, brand designs or big statements.
• Hoodies and sweatshirts in oversized silhouettes. These evoke comfort but similar to graphic tees, unique graphics and grand logos make these stylish.
• Sneakers. This footwear is a cornerstone of street wear, but rather than opting for classic ones, look for limited-edition releases and collaborations for a more urban feel.
• Accessories. To achieve streetwear style, the quintessential accessories include snapback hats and a bold bag.
Pull off streetwear with finesse
To truly master streetwear, here are some tips to take into consideration. And remember, the beauty of fashion is it is fun and personal.
• Start with a versatile wardrobe. By having foundational pieces like graphic tees and sneakers, achieving street style is possible with the addition of statement pieces such as bold jackets or patterned shirts.
• Personalize your streetwear look. Street style is all about promoting one’s personal expression. Create a look that is uniquely yours by using pieces that speak to your own individuality.
• Mix and match. Part of creating a look that is uniquely yours, try mixing and matching. Experiment with different textures and layers. Pair high-end items with low or more casual street-level ones. Blend different fashion elements to create an assortment of styles.
• Play with proportions. Oversized clothing is a trait of streetwear. Pair a baggy hoodie or sweatshirt with slim-fit jeans for a balanced look, or vice versa. For a more fun and urban look, choose baggy pants and tops.
• Accessorize. Accessories are the finishing touches to elevate your street wear ensemble. Opt for bold, statement-making pieces like chunky sneakers, oversized bags, or unique hats as these add a new dimension to your streetwear attire.
The world of fashion does not have to be complicated. Street wear and casual wear each have their own unique flair and so does its wearer, as fashion is about personal expression and finding the style that works for you and truly speaks to you.
Armani Exchange newest concept store in the South
When it comes to translating the fast rhythm of the city into street wear pieces, Armani Exchange nails it with clean lines, pure colors, functional details, and an idea of modularity.
Last November 15, Armani Exchange opened its new concept store at the Alabang Town Center. In a true fashionable sense, the opening was graced by some of the most stylish people of today’s generation.
The brand also released its Fall/Winter collection, composed of garments that can be infinitely mixed and matched, thanks to its range of neutral colors that are accented by hints of red and dashes of blue.
The men’s collection is made up of down jackets, parkas, shirts, pullovers, and trousers with a concrete and composed feel. Alongside outerwear and padded jackets, the women’s selection includes blazers and trousers with a graphic feel, sequined pleated skirts, shorts and dresses, and fluid and transparent trousers, pullovers, and t-shirts.
You can top these off with trainers, boots with rounded lines or slender ones with slim heels, handbags, shoulder bags, cross-body bags, and backpacks.
Armani Exchange is exclusively distributed by Stores Specialists Inc. and is located at Glorietta, Alabang Town Center, Power Plant Mall, Shangri-La Plaza, Abreeza, and online at Trunc.ph, Rustans.com, Zalora. For more information, visit their website and follow their social media pages @ssilifeph.
