The style of streetwear has evolved over the years to cover a host of different sub-genres. Having literally burst into the industry as the ‘fashion of the street,’ this category has expanded in recent times.
Streetwear can now include sportswear, skate wear and other styles, making it quite confusing if you’re new to this cultural phenomenon. Individual purchases include a host of different products including hoodies, branded T-shirts and stacked kids jeans. Buying streetwear for younger kids can also be tricky, so it pays to take time and study what’s available.
Growth Market
Across the fashion industry, streetwear has provided one of the biggest success stories. It continues to grow and demand today is higher than ever before. Some kids are happy to blend into the crowd, and for them, it’s easy to buy off-the-peg items from high street stores and online.
In such a crowded market, finding streetwear that is unique is much harder. A proportion of kids will want to be different from their friends, and that’s a much tougher assignment for the consumer.
Innovative Brands
Many streetwear brands follow a formula, but others are far more innovative. Within the overall category, they will adapt standard items such as those hoodies, jeans and T shirts, and give them a more distinctive look.
This effect can be achieved in a number of ways. Rather than design a one-color hoodie, these producers may opt for a multi-colored design of blended or contrasting shades. The cuffs and the hood itself may also be manufactured in a contrasting color to the rest of the garment.
The same innovative use of colors can be seen in jeans, tops and other classic streetwear.
Instead of opting for the same producers as everyone else, parents with kids in mind could also look for smaller, less well-known brands. These designers are more likely to provide clothes that aren’t always seen on every street corner around the world.
There is a huge choice of less well-known streetwear designers and by seeking them out, it can help to maintain that unique element. It’s possible that the labels may show a higher price than some of the regular competitors, but there are deals and promotions in place that can help with budgeting.
Another option is to be more innovative with accessories. If a baseball cap is needed to complete the look, why not opt for a less-popular team? Everyone else may be wearing New York Yankees caps, but that element of uniqueness can be pursued by championing a franchise such as the Florida Marlins or the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Unique Holy Grail
It may not be possible to sport a truly unique style of streetwear, unless you are a talented designer and have the ability to make clothes at home. Most of us lack those qualities, so it’s a case of looking to see what’s already out there.
One idea is to buy at outlets that have exclusive ranges. Across the industry, there are shops that understand the streetwear market and what consumers want in each category. They have experience and will know their consumer, but their clothes are unique to their store.
In many cases, they can be small retailers, and some may only sell online. By seeking out these exclusive lines, you can help your kid stand out from the crowd.
If you’re a parent purchasing streetwear for your children, these are useful tips for the next time you head to the store. It’s also worth remembering that kids will develop their own style, and they will form opinions about fashion from a very young age.
Involving your children in purchases is a good idea, especially if you want them to feel happy and confident in what they’re wearing. If you’re looking for a gift or shopping without them, remember to keep this advice to hand and remember that it is possible to buy more unique styles in a busy market.