Story HANG NGA
Photos INTERNET

In today’s fashion landscape, street style has transcended its origins to become a liberating force on runways and red carpets.

Embracing oversized fashion

Oversized clothing, once a niche trend, has become a mainstream fashion statement championed by celebrities like Justin Bieber, Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid. Designers such as Balenciaga, Peter Do and Marc Jacobs have embraced this trend, showcasing voluminous silhouettes in tailored blazers, dresses and knitwear. The runway has become a canvas for liberation, with oversized garments conveying both power and comfort. Even traditionally elegant brands like Givenchy have joined the party, surprising fashion enthusiasts with roomy coats in their Spring/Summer 2024 collection. Beyond mere aesthetics, the popularity of oversized clothing signifies a rejection of rigid beauty standards, promoting acceptance and appreciation for diverse body sizes.

Reimagining cargo pants

Cargo pants, with their signature large pockets and wide legs, have undergone a remarkable transformation. Originally designed for military use, they found their way into the fashion world in the mid-90s, gaining popularity in shopping mall culture. Their utilitarian appeal resonated with Hip Hop and street art communities and by the 2000s, cargo pants were gracing red carpets and major events. On recent runways, the cargo pocket detail has experienced a resurgence thanks to the Y2K fashion revival, appearing in Spring collections from Saint Laurent, Dries Van Noten and Fendi. As comfort and functionality become increasingly important to consumers, cargo pants perfectly embody the fusion of style and practicality.

The graffiti explosion

Graffiti, born in the 1960s and flourishing in the 1980s with the advent of spray paint cans, has left an indelible mark on fashion. Vivienne Westwood’s collaboration with artist Keith Haring in their Winter 1983/84 collection captured the vibrant spirit of American urban life through Haring’s distinctive “squiggles.” Marc Jacobs, during his tenure at Louis Vuitton, partnered with Stephen Sprouse, the “king of glamorous punk,” to reimagine the iconic Louis Vuitton monogram with a spray-paint effect. Graffiti on the runway has been used to convey a powerful message of social commentary, class struggle and environmental concerns.

The evolution of color blocking

Color blocking, a trend that gained prominence in the 1960s, involves using distinct blocks of color in creative arrangements. This bold style is well-suited to the energy of street fashion. Today, the aesthetic emphasizes harmony and depth rather than harsh contrasts, allowing color blocking to seamlessly transition from the streets to high-end designs. KENZO’s collaboration with graphic artist VERDY exemplifies this evolution, infusing vibrant colors and a touch of nostalgia into their Spring/Summer streetwear collection.

Through these trends, street fashion continues to redefine boundaries, challenge norms and empower individuals to express their unique identities. Its influence on the broader fashion landscape is undeniable, showcasing the dynamic interplay between creativity, culture and self-expression.