How to Nail the Street Retro Trend
4 stylish ways to bump up your street cred
Looking to the past for inspiration isn’t a novel idea, especially when it comes to men’s fashion. You take the good, leave the bad, and update it with a contemporary spin that makes it ever-so relevant. Further blurring the lines between luxury and streetwear, brands like Amiri, Acne Studios, Loewe, and Wooyoungmi have brought the subcultural appeal from the late ‘90s and early noughties to its SS ‘22 collections and approached it in a more refined and elevated way.
To those who have been thriving on a steady diet of tailoring for the past decade, newsflash for you: menswear has changed. “Elegance” is no longer restricted to traditional tailoring. It has evolved to include the exclusively inclusive streetwear trend. Think rebel attitude sprinkled with a dose of modern sophistication.
If the thought of embracing street trends sounds intimidating, we’re issuing guidance on what to incorporate into your wardrobe so you can ride the shifting tides with ease. For those that are ready to relive your adolescence, simply read on, because we’re equipping you with some sartorial wisdom this time around.
Plaid button-downs are trending again
Why we love it:
What would this decade’s fashion inspiration be without a few plaid button-downs in the mix? A wardrobe essential of the era (especially for anyone at a Nirvana concert), the modern interpretation of these is a bit more polished.
How to wear it:
Wear them buttoned up or opt for a more structured flannel that can be worn open as more of a ‘shacket’. Swap out your dark-wash denim for a lighter pair as the perfect complement.
Make a statement with graphic tees
Why we love it:
The ’90s skate culture introduced a wave of graphic tees to mainstream fashion. From expressive etchings to quirky slogans, the graphic tee trend is amped up to a thousand — nay, a million — this season.
How to wear it:
Take into consideration the one item you want to stand out and build the rest of your outfit with classic pieces. Keep this in mind, and you’ll be able to anchor the look, so it doesn’t feel over the top.
Denim jackets are a must-have
Why we love it:
No piece of clothing better conveys the punkish spirit than a retro-inspired denim jacket. Although a timeless wardrobe staple, we haven’t seen them this prevalent since the ‘90s.
How to wear it:
Honour the retro-vibe of the jacket by styling it with a simple white T-shirt, vintage-inspired khakis, and chunky sneakers. For a modern vibe, go with a pair of skinny jeans in a contrasting wash and a graphic tee.
Cargo Pants are back
Why we love it:
The return of cargo pants is a result of a renewed interest in skating’s infancy. They cut a strong silhouette and are undeniably more comfortable than narrow trousers.
How to wear it:
A denim jacket and a pair of cargo pants will never go out of style. To add a dynamic touch that makes this day-to-day outfit feel a little more fun, just team the combo with some bright runner-style trainers.
Ready to channel your teen spirit? Shop our edit below.