StreetWear Trends

One of the best things about Streetwear is that there is no one right way to wear something. While celebrities and in particular hip hop artists and rappers play a big role in influencing Streetwear, essentially it all comes down to what look you can carry off well. Many such artists have their own clothing labels which do great business, but the best urban wear look is one that you put together to create something that’s really unique. In fact experts say that the best thing to do if you really want to rock the Streetwear look is to simply watch out for cool accessories or clothing items which can mesh well together. You don’t have to strictly go shopping for one complete ensemble; just keep your eyes open and pick up anything that catches your eye. Here’s a peek into the style trends you can expect to see for the rest of 2010-


1. Learn to mix it up- Combing different looks and themes from decades gone by is anything but trashy. The best way to go about it is to pick up a clothing or accessory trend from the yester years which you know will work for you and then team it up with something that’s current and hot. That way you won’t look like you’re a blast from the past and you’ll stick look cool. Leaf through mags or just surf the net to get a number of great looks. Bear in mind that the no-makeup look, wearing oversized clothes or overdoing the makeup bit is just not cool at all.

2. Prints and plaid are back- If you thought that prints looked better on your mom or that plaid was meant for your dad’s suit, then it’s time to wake up! Florals, paisley prints, graphics, abstracts, images, holograms and even tie and dye designs are all back with a bang. Throw on a plaid jacket or team up a plaid skirt with a t-shirt. The best way to wear prints and plaid is to wear them with pastels so that the look doesn’t become gaudy.

3. Rip those jeans- Boyfriend jeans, skinny stretch jeans and above all distressed jeans should find a place in your wardrobe. If the real thing is out of your budget, just grab a pair of scissors and rip, shred or make holes in your denim by yourself.

4. Wear out of the box- You have permission to steal your boyfriend’s jeans, sneakers, jackets and any other hep clothing he might own. It’s time to think different and to wear something you wouldn’t have dreamt of.

5. Get rid of dark colors- It’s the year to wear bright summery shades all year round. Go for colors with zing like yellow, pink, blue, purple and fruity shades like lime green and tangerine. It’ll help make you feel cheerful and make you stand out as well.

6. Yes to Head Gear- Beastie Boy caps, fedoras, beanie caps, boys caps and even scarves are all in and can be worn with anything. Don’t leave home without your hat.

It's all in the Denim

If you love your denim and can’t imagine life without a pair of jeans, then a pair of raw denim jeans is the one fashion item you simply have to own. Denim which had very humble beginnings has today evolved into a piece of clothing that can be found even in a baby’s wardrobe. Denim was traditionally dyed in a blue shade for years till manufacturers began to experiment with different dyes, cuts and patterns. The denim jeans that are available off the shelves are also known as ‘washed jeans’- a term which simply means that after the denim has been dipped in dye, it is then washed during the production stage. This helps to make the fabric softer when worn against the skin and is believed to reduce shrinkage which could affect the fit.


On the other hand, raw denim refers to fabric that skips the process of washing and treatment with chemicals which allows the fabric to lose its color naturally over a period of time. Therein lies its unique quality. Faded jeans have since long been an integral part of Streetwear, and can make an ensemble look rad. Raw denim eventually achieves a natural faded look which is much more appealing when compared to distressed denim that has been produced in a factory. Moreover, every pair of raw denim is different and each pair takes on a unique faded look depending entirely on how much the jeans is worn by the person.

So how do you pick out a pair that makes you sizzle? If you are purchasing your first pair of raw denim jeans, then the first thing you should keep in mind is to buy a pair that fits you like a second pair of skin. Wearing raw denim for the first time can feel really uncomfortable and stiff but over time the fabric will stretch and give you a really good fit. However how fast that happens depends on how long you wear the jeans. So it’s important to try on a pair before buying it and avoid making any hasty purchases based on your usual jeans size. If you’re in the habit of lending your jeans to friends, then this is one pair you can be selfish about considering that everybody has a different body shape. Fashion experts advise against washing your raw denim jeans for a minimum of 6 months. The reason they state is that it takes some time for the jeans to adapt to your body shape and washing the jeans could hamper the process. Instead, look at dry cleaning options if you absolutely must get them cleaned and rid of any stains or odor. Another option could be to rinse your jeans in fresh water without salt and then let them dry out in the sun on their own.

If you like a skinny or body hugging fit and have a great body to show off, then look hep anytime in raw denim. This is one look that is just yours no matter how you wear it.

Environmentally Green Clothing

The environment has probably never gotten as much attention as it does these days. People all over the world are taking serious steps to recycle, reduce consumption of plastic, use bags made of paper or jute and are concerned about carbon footprints as well. Although we may not even be aware of it, the fashion industry can play a major role in conserving the environment as well, on a global scale. Did you know for instance that your favorite t-shirt you could wear all day is likely to have made from conventional cotton unless otherwise has been stated on the label? What’s the harm in wearing synthetic cotton you may ask? Not much, save that it takes a sizeable amount of pesticide on a crop of cotton just to make one t-shirt. In addition, the harmful pesticides which are usually used on cotton crops damage the soil, harm small animals and birds as well as cause deaths due to poisoning. Not surprisingly then that many farmers are now switching over to growing organic cotton on their lands, which may be more expensive but definitely better for all of us. Hemp fibre based textiles are also highly durable, resistant to mould and just as comfy as your regular cotton t-shirt.

There are many brands which manufacture their garments from organic materials, and which are uncompromising on style or comfort. Planet Earth Clothing is one such brand with designs that are urban and hep, while doing the environment a big favor. Organic cotton and even recycled polyester used in plastic bottles are just two of the base materials used in their garments. Their clothes can be worn anywhere or even while skating and snowboarding. Besides individual ranges for men and women which feature shirts, pants, hoodies, t-shirts and shorts; they also have a range of smart caps which can be teamed up with any ensemble. Another brand which retails organic clothing is Volcom, which was born out of a sheer passion for skating and snowboarding. Today this is one of the best well known brands in the Urban Wear world. They have a great range of t-shirts, hoodies, shirts, jackets and a wide variety of jeans that are a huge hit with youngsters of all ages. They also retail t-shirts which are made from 100% organic cotton and have eye catching designs made from water based ink.

Elwood Clothing has been wooing the world with its range of organic clothing since 1996. This brand uses fabrics such as organic cotton, bamboo, hemp, recycled yarns as well as women fabric which has been dyed. They even offer a free replacement if a customer feels that the garment purchased is not up to the mark. They have an in-depth range of cool wear for men and women as well as accessories. Their range of t-shirts featuring their brand logo, abstract prints and other artwork are very popular as well. With such brands leading the way towards a better future, it may not be long before the fashion industry plays a bigger role in conserving the environment for our tomorrow.

Ripped or Shredded Jeans

If you thought that ripped and shredded jeans were a sign of poverty, then it’s likely you didn’t know that this style was a huge rage in the early eighties and nineties. Moreover, this style which was often touted as a rocker look now comes in a variety of styles such as in skinny fits and baggy boyfriend jeans. If all you want to do is look hep and cool at the same time, then distressed jeans are just the thing. The trick is to understand what styles flatter your body shape and to get the most out of the jeans. You dont have to necessarily wear a t-shirt with such jeans; in fact you can amp up your style by teaming it up with a feminine blouse, a ladies shirt, a long tee or even a plaid top.


Before you decide which look suits you best, it’s important to pick up the right pair of denim for you. Know your size and understand your figure before you make any purchases. If you are slim opt for skinny ripped jeans as they can help enhance your figure and make you look curvier than you actually are. It’s become acceptable and cool to flick your boyfriend’s jeans but remember that a casual ripped pair will also have wide legs and give you an overall baggy look. The look is a much more relaxed one and you are likely to be more comfortable in this pair as compared to skinny jeans. People who are on the heavy side can definitely carry off a distressed pair of jeans in style too but it’s important to stick with a pair that doesn’t go over the top. If possible, go for a pair with vertical rips so that you appear leaner. If you are looking for a pair to make your bottom half appear leaner as well, it’s advisable to opt for a pair of ripped boyfriend jeans. Also, ensure that the rips are in places you are comfortable with and also that it doesn’t reveal too much of skin, or the look will be anything but classy.

There’s a very thin line between looking hep in a pair of distressed jeans or looking trashy. Balance your clothes with the right accessories which will do wonders for your image. Remember that it’s important to change them with the look you intend to create. For instance, if your distressed jeans has small rips, its alright to wear a colorful or jazzy top. On the other hand, if the rips or holes are large, stick to a simple t-shirt or top which blends in with the jeans. Wearing the right footwear can make your jeans look even better and its best to choose a pair of open sandals or heels with a wide base. Bangles, charm bracelets, simple chains and even hats can help you look great. Once you put together what works best for you, it’s time to wear your look right and get ready to paint the town red!

Sports and Streetwear

The right place to be seen in Streetwear is no longer just at a party or at the beach; in fact it’s not unusual to see Streetwear worn proudly at sports related events as well. Besides just surfing or snowboarding, football is another hugely popular sport with plenty of fans all across the globe. So huge is the potential of football related merchandise that established brands often roll out a new line of football fashion clothing and other gear usually just before a major tournament or widely watched series. Take a look around at the audience present at a football match, and you are likely to spot many of them wearing their favorite team’s jerseys or other forms of Urban Wear clothing.


Reputed sports brands like Nike, Adidas and Reebok are famous for their funky, clean and sporty Street Wear lines. Customers willingly purchase them because they combine the best in design and are after all branded. Besides football gear which feature a team’s logo or face of a player on them, these brands actually invest in creating different moods of Street Wear. In fact, just last month in May alone, Nike launched its Summer 2010 collection in Bangkok which was in collaboration with Carrie Mundane, a reputed British fashion designer. The various designs that were showcased were a blend of fashionable detailing with football as its theme. Critics lauded it as classic Nike innovations with plenty of artistic expression, which gave Street Wear itself a new twist. Some other brands are synonymous with football like One True Saxon. Contrary to other brands, One True Saxon isn’t cheap but carries great designs on the best Japanese denim. Their hallmark buttons on the fly, brass rivets which enhance the fit, rivets and herringbone pocket bags are some touches that fans love. Their linen shirts and great looking t-shirts are too good to pass up. Football fans in particular have been spotted wearing this brand at various matches and rumor has it that people wearing One True Saxon aren’t permitted in some towns when there’s a match. Street Wear wouldn’t be the same without the hoodie, and that’s probably why the hooded football jacket, with a more fashionable twist was created. Cuffs, a knit collar and the logo of a football team on the breast or side are often spotted. Carhartt Streetwear has plenty of designs and sizes to suit different tastes. Gator Athletics allows customers to customize their own designs on the website, and caters to clothing wear which is related to different sports. In their football section alone, they offer choices in Game Jerseys, Streetwear and Practice Wear with customizable patterns in both t-shirts and shorts. Mentalita Ultras Streetwear is another Italian based brand which was born from a passion for football and has been wooing the world since 1995. Their range of stylish clothes is available in a range of fits and sizes, and is very popular especially in Europe. Their clothes are sold online and only at a few dealerships.

Mens Fashion 2010

Gone are the days when fashion for men was mundane and traditional. Today’s men are open to experimenting with colors, cuts, patterns and designs in a way like never before. That also explains why many fashion designers have designer labels exclusively for men. No wonder then that this new trend of staying fashionable at all times has given rise to terms like ‘metrosexual’. If you are a fashion conscious person who likes to stay tuned to the hottest looks, styles and designs; then we have listed a few tips on the must have style predictions of the year.




1. There’s no better time than now to show some military style fashion. If you have any authentic vintage pieces in your wardrobe, now’s the time to wear them proudly. Go for a single or double breasted coat in the colors of Army Green or in the colors of the Navy and Air Force. A few antique buttons and a belt to match completes the look. If you are comfortable with the look, try on a pair of aviator boots with fur or shearling. For a more dramatic effect, they can also be worn on the collar or sleeves of your coat as well. To top off the look, don’t forget a dashing pair of military styles sung glasses or aviator shades.

2. Every man should have a good suit which takes him from casual to cool and classy. This year however, choose a suit with a cut that highlights broad shoulders, a slim waist and slim trousers. The double breasted suit which was popular in the eighties has made a comeback and is ideal for men who have a plump figure as it camouflages any weak spots. Since these classic styles are back, so are classic fabric, patterns and cuts. Choose patterns such as Harris Tweed, Herringbone, pinstripes or rope stripes which can be used for trousers, blazers and coats as well. Fabrics such as wool, cotton and linen are still the preferred fabrics for suits.

3. Jeans are a must have in every guy’s wardrobe. This year how about wearing your jeans differently? Go for slim fit denim without any rips in a darker shade of blue. That way you can wear them with a trench coat and leather shoes for a classy look or just a t-shirt for a chilled out look. If you can’t do without rips in your jeans, choose a brand that pays attention to producing tears and rips with precision. The overall effect should look authentic and not like you went at your jeans with scissors in hand. A pair of jeans that sits low on the waist and has a slim fit, shows off a toned body as well. This year go for darker shades and tones like steel colored gray.

4. If you love your casuals, choose sleeved shirts with designs on them, or full sleeved cotton shirts in pastel shades which can be teemed with cargoes, shorts and jeans. The key is to look stylish without making a big effort. Don’t forget to wear a pair of shades which highlight your facial features and a watch which stands out on your wrist.

Women's Fashioin Trend 2010

Fashion has many interpretations. While some believe that true fashion lies in setting new trends, others believe that it never hurts to pick up an existing style and make it your own. You may not be a Naomi Campbell or Madonna, but there’s no reason why you can’t wear a stylish look and be a fashionista at the same time. Every year, the fashion world makes a few predictions on what the latest styles and hot must haves will be. Here are a few tips about the hottest styles and what to wear so that you stay fashionable all through the year.


1. If you love your hot pants and boys shorts, then this is the time to show them off with pride. A pair of shorts matched with a streetwear t-shirt or shirt creates a stylish look.

2. The focus is on creating layers with socks the right way. One way to create layers is to wear a pair of knee length socks over tights or even leggings. This helps create a certain degree of volume to the entire look as well.

3. If you love wearing dresses and gowns, go for one with a sexy slit on the side. A slit plays a big part in keeping the dress sexy, without making the look gaudy and shows off a toned figure wonderfully. However, make sure that you are comfortable with the length of the slit and can carry it off without feeling uncomfortable.

4. Although they were often associated with the early eighties and even Archie comics, playsuits, jumpers and rompers are now a fashion must have. Besides keeping you comfy, there are many new patterns, designs and fabrics to choose from which ensure you don’t look dull.

5. The focus isn’t on a flashy or patterned top anymore. Instead, it’s what’s on the lower half that’s important. Its time to take to take out your pants that have prints, designs, patterns and other abstracts on them. It doesn’t matter if they look too flashy on their own. Just pair them with a white or pastel colored t-shirt and you can still look hot.

6. Sheer fabric continues to be a top rated fashion must have. However, you don’t have to wear clothing made completely of just sheer fabric if you’re not comfy with the thought; even hints of it on your attire can make a difference.

7. To complete a casual look, go for an oversized blazer or jacket, where you can roll up the sleeves. It creates a completely different look and yet looks cool.

8. Chuck out your pair of jeans, and invest in denim that is ripped, torn or patched. It’s a big hit with celebs as well and makes for a really sexy ensemble.

9. Leather clothing may not rate high in terms of comfort, but leather leggings, skirts and dresses are back.

10. Instead of choosing traditional winter wear, go for a stylish cape which can be styled and worn in different ways.

11. Go for fabric that has been manufactured using greener alternatives. Not only are they stylishly different but environmentally friendly too!

Japan Harajaku Fashion

The interpretation of streetwear is very different in Japan. The Japanese blend different colors together with popular anime characters as well as various abstract designs to create their interpretation of streetwear. Japan is also famous for its Harajaku fashion which is believed to have evolved towards the end of the Second World War. Young people who were looking for different ways to express themselves found refuge in wearing clothes that were unusual looking, resulting in the creation of a style that has stayed unique to this day. Harajaku itself comprises of a few distinct styles, and even today it is aimed at teenagers and the youth who want to stand apart from the rest.

 To an onlooker, the clothes may appear to be wildly colorful, cute, funky or even downright outrageous. In the West, the term itself and the various styles associated with it came to the forefront when artists like Gwen Stefani and Nicki Menaj made references to Harajaku in their music.

The term ‘Harajaku Girls’ is quite commonly used to describe girls who dress up in the Harajaku style but it is quite popular with the guys too. Even today on Sundays, teens usually meet outside the Harajaku station and dress up in costumes to look like anime characters and punk rock musicians. Visual Kei, is a popular movement promoted by various Japanese rock musicians and features the use of elaborate costumes, makeup and hairstyles. The music that is referred to here consists of goth rock, heavy metal and punk. The Gothic Lolita style is popular among young ladies who enjoy wearing frills, lace and knee length dresses. The clothes can sometimes be dark in nature or may be cute and innocent in nature. Another style called Kawaii means to look cute or pretty and features in many other aspects of Japanese entertainment and culture. This kind of fashion is usually for small children as it is believed that the ruffles, pastel and bright colors make them look cuter. The style called Decora, is usually followed by older girls and involves wearing bright colors with plenty of hair and body accessories.

 The Ganguro style is also very popular with young women who love a tan and involves dyeing the hair in different colors as well as wearing white lipstick. This style of dressing is believed to have evolved more as an alternative to the traditional Japanese norms of beauty.

To complete the Harajaku look, it’s important to get the hair and makeup right as well. People who dress up in this style often don colorful wigs and other eye- catching hairdos in hard to miss colors like blue or flaming red. The makeup one chooses to wear varies from person to person, and varies from a light touchup to porcelain white faces, darkened eyes and plucked eyebrows. Although there are so many variations to this popular dressing up style, it is slowly making a mark all over the world as well. Probably no other style encourages the wearer to have fun dressing up the way Harajaku fashion does.

University Student Fashions

Universities can be considered the hotbeds of style. Most often, students like experimenting around with the latest fads and styles, trying to figure out what’s cool, what’s not and which look suits them the best. Sometimes, the kind of style followed or even label worn determined the kind of clique a person would end up being a part of. The preppie style, which usually set apart the rich posh kids from the rest of the class, became an accepted style statement here. Although kids wearing a regular pair of jeans and t-shirts can be found everywhere, small experiments with style never hurt. Style doesn’t always have to be about a designer label, designer shoes or expensive bags. A piece of jewelry which is uniquely yours, a hairstyle that nobody else can carry off, a mix and match of accessories or even wearing a t-shirt in a unique manner are just a few ways you can stand out from the crowd.

There’s a reason why streetwear is such a cool accepted university style. Although it may seem so, streetwear is not just for those who like to have a loud and flashy style statement. The best feature about urban wear is the freedom it gives the wearer to mix and match. For instance, some people may prefer to just wear a hard to miss t-shirt whereas some others may prefer to jazz up the ensemble with a pair of bright colored sneakers. Guys can top up the cool look with a bandana that has abstract designs or even with a cap. Girls may prefer to complete the look with a soft beanie cap or wear a few stylish accessories. There are plenty of brands available which thrive on inspiration, witty liners and art straight from the streets. Of course, if you aren’t the kind who likes to say it loud and clear and prefers to make an impression the quiet way; there are plenty of brands that are perfect for you.

 Like RAGEWEAR. This is probably the only urban wear brand that’s designed by students for students. That also explains why its cool and hip to be seen in a RAGEWEAR t-shirt or hoodie whether you’re at class, watching the Superbowl with your friends, hanging out at the bowling arcade or even if you’re on a date with that someone special. After all, fashion shouldn’t just be about making you look good, it should also make you stand out anywhere you go. Take your pick from t-shirts that keep it simple yet fresh in different colors with the word RAGE across the front. Or choose t-shirts with different images of Fydo across the front, if you feel that cool prints are your thing. Team it up with a hoodie that has a proper ‘from the streets’ grunge look and feel to it. Why not choose a colorful ladies t-shirt as a gift for your girl, the next time you celebrate a special occasion? We guarantee she will love it. When you wear RAGEWEAR, you opt for fashion that’s comfortable hip and always in style.

It's all in the Sunglasses

Where would fashion be without eye wear? These days it doesn’t matter if you really need a pair of shades or not. It doesn’t even matter if you don’t really need a pair of prescription glasses to read a book because eye wear is no longer about the need for a pair of glasses any more. On the other hand, the right eye wear has become a must have fashion accessory.

 To the extent that people who don’t really need glasses, sometimes wear them just to project a more professional image. The power of this fashion accessory just cannot be denied. It can jazz up an otherwise ordinary outfit, make heads turn on the street and not surprisingly is the constant companion of celebrities and fashion icons.

It’s ironic that wearing glasses were not always considered cool and hip. In fact for a very long time, glasses per se were associated with old people who were in their prime. The thinking slowly changed, and people who wore glasses were thought of as wise and educated with a love for books. Then in 1929, Sam Forster created the first pair of sunglasses and within one year, the trend of wearing eye wear as protection from the sun caught on.

 American pilots were among the first people to wear sunglasses as eye protection while on duty. In 1936, Ray Ban created the first anti glare aviator sunglasses for pilots fighting in the Second World War. The popularity of sunglasses as a fashion item really caught on in the early sixties and thanks to the hippie era in particular; they became a must have accessory. Celebrities and other icons also wore sunglasses to enhance their fashion statement.

Today the eye wear industry has many well known brands which are in the business of not only merging technology with the best designs, but also enhancing the overall style quotient of the wearer. In fact, many brands showcase upcoming or yet to be unveiled designs at fashion shows. Big names like Chanel, Gucci and Dior often have their models wearing the latest fashion wear with sunglasses to complete the intended look.

Sunglasses are an important accessory in urban wear too.

 It’s not unusual for rap and hip hop artists to flash the latest designer eye wear, or to be in the public eye wearing flashy oversized sunglasses. As with urban wear itself, the idea is to allow each item in the ensemble to stand out on its own. Sunglasses in retro shades and styles, with colorful rims or with designs like polka dots on them are quite common as well.

If you are on the lookout for some cool shades to wear with your streetwear, check out sites like www.yukka.com or www.karmaloop.com. These sites have a good collection of sunglasses featuring different brands as well as unique tints and cool styles. The best way to look fresh each time is to have a few sunglasses that can be mixed and matched with any outfit making you look hot and cool at the same time.

Streetwear Fan Sites

The best way to check out the latest fashion wear or the must have look of the season, is to surf the Internet. Which other source of ready to read information can give you such up to date material on whatever topic you choose? There are many websites which cover streetwear from the graffiti filled streets of New York to the flea markets in Japan. Many of them offer compiled collections of the best urban wear labels, and even have great discounts or bulk offers on their websites. The beauty of the Internet is that there are no boundaries and the choices available for you are limitless. So if you really don’t have the time to shop around in the mall next door, or indulge in some window shopping; just have a chilled glass of your favorite beverage next to you, relax and enjoy visiting these websites.



1. www.asiajam.com- Whoever thinks that streetwear is strictly American or European, probably doesn’t know that streetwear has adapted to local culture and trends throughout many Asian countries. If you want to know what streetwear in Korea, Japan or even Hong Kong looks like; then this is the best website to visit. Great apparel, beanie caps, accessories, bags, shoes and plenty of great deals make this site hugely popular with Asian streetwear fans. There are even different sub sections like ‘ classic streetwear’ or ‘ sleek and chic’ so that you go directly to the collection you want.


2. www.formatmag.com- This website covers the latest and the must know information relating to urban wear and other topics. Art, the best sneakers, latest urban wear designs, street art, tattoo designs and even menswear are just a few of the topics that are worth a read on the site. Catalog collections of various brands and pictures of photography exhibitions can also be viewed. The site does not believe in staying restricted to just one country and features stories from all over the world.


3. www.yukka.co.uk- Find the latest and the best happening brands in urban wear here. Besides fantastic offers, clearance deals and separate collections for men and women, this site has something for everyone. Whether you’re just getting into the groove of urban wear or if you’re a seasoned streetwear fan, this site will certainly have a few surprises for you. While you’re there, check out the blog which talks about latest launches, music and movies. It’s a good way to connect with other yukka fans too.


4. www.highsnobeity.com- This is a must read for die hard streetwear fans. The website is run independently and features streetwear fashion as well as lifestyle and other culture news. If you want to know what’s going to be the next big thing in style, you’re likely to read about it here first. Readers can get the latest news, new product and store launches as well as plenty of other information. Indepth interviews and plenty of other reviews can also be found here. There’s even a newsletter which arrives in your mailbox that fans can subscribe to.

Who Loves Bandanas

You don’t have to spend a lot of money just to look cool or hep. Sometimes, the right accessories can help to accentuate your look and add a dash of appeal as well. One such accessory that can be worn by both men and women is a bandana. A bandana is just a piece of cloth, which is usually square or triangular in shape and worn on the head. Sometimes it can be worn around the neck as a casual scarf as well.

Bandanas were not always considered to be a fashion item, and for many years they were worn to keep the hair in place by farm girls and farmers. Soon, engineers who worked on railroads and men working in construction sites began to wear bandanas as well. It served as an ideal cloth to wipe away sweat and project a neat look. Bandanas actually became a youth accessory when they began to feature in western movies, where dashing young cowboys wore them.

With time, a bandana became more than just a scarf to wear on the head- it began to symbolize one’s identity. Just like the hoodie, bandanas began to be worn by local neighborhood gangs and youngsters sporting one were often thought to be anti social elements. Soon, the bandana became a must have for music artists and rap artists as well. Musicians like 50 cent, Eminem and even Axel Rose have all sported a bandana during their concerts and stage shows.

Bandanas for guys usually come in plain colors or abstract patterns whereas those for girls come in brighter shades. Although bandanas can be bought almost everywhere, if you really want to buy bandanas that are unique, then the best place to begin is the Internet itself. You can either buy a single piece or order a dozen pieces of the same design. www.wholesaleforeveryone.com is a wonderful site to surf if you are looking for bandanas that are out of the ordinary. Various biker, pirate, skulls & crossbones, military and automotive designs are great for those with a flair for adventure.

For the girls, there are various designs available such as nature, paisley, tie& dye as well as religious symbols. There are even cute designs for kids such as bandanas with stars and other kiddy designs guaranteed to match whatever they are wearing. www.coveryourhair.com is another site which is very popular with the girls. They have a good range of pre tied bandanas, which simply need to be worn on the head without tying. Designs in plaid and floral patterns in velvet and lycra can be bought. They also have other bandanas which can make your outfit much more colorful such as bandanas with polka dots, stripes, paisley designs, multi colored stripes, tie and dye as well as camouflage patterns. Their range of triangle shaped bandanas come in plain colors as well as abstract patterns which are ideal for guys to wear. A bandana can also be used to wrap up a gift for a friend or even as a bow on a gift.

Is Preppy Back?

The word ‘ preppie’ conjures up images of fashionable students who pay a lot of attention to the way they look, dress and behave in general society. The term itself originated somewhere in the early fifties, and was meant to refer to students who had distinct mannerisms and who were in many ways easily distinguishable from the rest of the crowd.

Besides being popular and the most envied, they were easily the best dressed and perhaps snobbish as well. Since there were many similarities in the way preppies would dress such as in clean cut and classy ensembles; it wasn’t long before the ‘preppie look’ became a fashion trend in itself. Many brands such as Ralph Lauren, Lacoste and J Press are a few of the well known stores which carry styles that are associated with preppies.

Exactly what is the definition of preppie style? Although there is no hard and fast definition as such, it generally refers to clothes that can stand the test of time, which are non fussy in appearance and which have an air of expensive elegance. The clean, tidy look of a preppie also comes from wearing sober colors which match and make the wearer look neat. Wool, cashmere and expensive fabrics in sober shades like navy blue, light blue, white or patterns such as plaid, stripes, paisley and floral are old time favorites. The preppie clean look is not merely meant for class, and can be worn anywhere, no matter what the occasion. Guys usually prefer polo shirts, long sleeved shirts, knitted vests or sweaters in traditional colors for a casual look. Chinos, Bermuda shorts or khaki pants are great for a game or a party.

 For a more formal look, a shirt can be teemed up with a jacket or a blazer in a dark shade such as navy blue. For the girls, the trick is to wear conventional clothing in different patterns or summery shades for a perky look. A line skirts or skirts with a small flare in khaki, plaid, linen or with a light pattern are ideal for wearing all year round. They can be worn with simple shirts or blouses and a scarf or a bright colored stole will add the right touch of color. Dresses with patterns of flowers, paisley designs or in light shades, are also an accepted preppie look.

The right accessories can help accentuate the desired look and there are a few accessories that both men and women can wear with their ensemble. Hats, ties, suspenders, pith helmets and winter hats are a must have for men, whereas jewelry should be limited to cufflinks, signet rings, studs and watches. Belts, handbags, head bands, straw hats and scarves are the perfect accessories for women. Jewelry is usually limited to a strand of pearls, small studs as well as thin chains and bracelets. The footwear is also carefully coordinated with whatever the person wears such as slippers with a dress or flip flops for a casual look.

Tie Dye is In

Although the hippie era is usually spoken about as the era of free love, drugs and rock n roll; it was also a time when fashion began to break away from the usual norms. A rather unusual style of creating patterns called the tie and dye method, became popular. Designs which are usually abstract or nature inspired were made by folding the material such as a dress or a t-shirt and then binding it tightly with bands to hold the material in place.

Different colored dyes depending on the intended look and style are then applied, to various sections of the material. The material is later rinsed and in some cases, left in a freezer overnight so that the dye does not run out when the material is washed next. These kinds of designs make the fabric appear very colorful and bright.

It is argued that tie and dye as a creative artistic process itself is actually quite old. Various materials which had tie and dye designs, dating back to 500-800 AD, showed patterns of small circles and lines in colors ¬like red, yellow and blue. Tie dye techniques were also in use in West Africa, where the clothing itself was richly embroidered in traditional designs before undergoing the tie and dye process.

Similarly, Indonesia and India too had their own tie and dye techniques as well as various words for the unique process. There is no end to one’s imagination as well as the different possibilities, when it comes to the tie and dye process. However, some patterns such as the spiral which is usually done in two colors, the V shape and random circles are quite popular.

The tie and dye design is quite unisex in nature and has a casual yet chic appeal when paired with jeans or with cargoes. It makes the wearer appear quite colorful too, as these designs are usually done in bright colors and black is rarely used.


Tie and dye is a relatively simple technique that can even be done safely at home, if you are keen on having a unique garment. Surprisingly, after a long hiatus, the tie and dye trend featured on the runaway in 2009 where design houses like Balmain showcased such garments with ripped bleach washed jeans and other trousers which were quite commonplace in the late seventies and early eighties. The tie and dye technique is no longer used on just fabric- it is also used on bags, shoes, scarves and even jewelry. This year too, when the Spring 2010 collection was unveiled, the tie and dye trend just could not be overlooked. The focus remained on creating fashion that was affordable and which incorporated the colors normally associated with spring. The impression given was that tie and dye designs were light, refreshing and flirty to wear. It doesn’t matter if you feel this technique is just not your thing. Something as small as a tie and dye scarf or a bag alone can jazz up the look of your ensemble.

It All About The Jeans

If there is one garment that is truly universal, then it is undoubtedly the humble jeans. Denim itself evolved from humble beginnings, with coal miners often wearing them at work, because the material was tough and did not tear easily. Moreover it could be washed time and again, without the color fading or the material itself coming apart. Jeans slowly made their way into retail shops and truly hit the mark, after celebrities made on screen appearances wearing them.

For a long time, jeans were associated with rebels and especially the youth. A guy in a pair of denims and a leather jacket, was thought to be the epitome of cool. Today jeans have come a long way with comfortable pairs being made even for infants. Plenty of designers and labels have all jumped in, to tap the potential that this huge market offers. After all, nothing spells comfort better than a pair of jeans with a t-shirt to match. Jeans are looked as a unisex garment which can be dressed up or dressed down depending on the occasion. A pair of jeans is no longer about just the color- it’s also about the style, fit, wash, rise, length, cut and the label.

One of the best selling trends doing the rounds these days is the focus on the vintage look. To achieve the vintage look, a decent pair of jeans may actually go through a process of being ripped and torn at strategic places. Vintage jeans on the whole are meant to look like the pair of denim itself is past its prime and is not looked after properly.

Faded jeans for one are very popular as they have an old feel about them, and have been washed that way to achieve the intended look. When worn, the jeans themselves stand out. Distressed or destroyed jeans on the other hand, look as if the denim has been to hell and back, and are usually accompanied by holes, rips, tears and frayed hems as well. Sometimes the threads of the jeans may hang out in a ragged manner, but that is supposed to enhance the overall look.

 Many denim fans may actually choose not to purchase such jeans for themselves, and instead prefer to hang on to their favorite pair of jeans for years to come. Eventually, the jeans will take on a natural vintage look on their own. Fashionistas on the other hand may think otherwise.

 The more distressed the jeans, the higher its fashion quotient. To a large extent we have celebrities who made wearing torn jeans fashionable, to thank for. Jeans with a whisker wash are also quite trendy to be seen in and can make the person look very fashionable. Usually the jeans will have a few cat like scratch marks or whisker marks on the leg or just below the front pockets on the thigh. This kind of style is very popular among women.

Probably no other garment has been experimented upon so much as the humble denim. No matter what the wash, cut or label, it is one garment that sits differently on everybody.

Footwear - Urban Wear

A classic urban wear or streetwear look is not just about the clothes- it’s about the whole ensemble from the cap worn right down to the footwear. In the early eighties, many hip hop artists started to promote a new trend in style. They teamed up a t-shirt or a track suit along with a jacket and for the final touch, wore sneakers with oversized laces or ‘ phat’ laces as they were fashionably called.

The trend was a huge success and hit a chord with many youngsters who were looking for a new fashion statement to set them apart. Since hip hop traditionally grew on the streets, sneakers were the ideal footwear for performing freestyle hip hop and other street dance forms.



Today, there are many brands which have branched out into designing streetwear shoes for youngsters. Sneakers are a hot favorite and are available in many designs and colors for both boys and girls. Names like Nike, Adidas and Reebok which were associated with manufacturing sports shoes for many years, were actually among the first to latch on to the streetwear shoe trend. Their designs which are very popular even today were a huge leap in style and a class apart from their usual plain white sneakers which were associated with sports.

Artists and designers were actually encouraged to get creative and use colors that were not common in footwear like gold, purple or silver. The idea was to make urban wear footwear unique and stylish on its own to the extent that it could be worn with other fashion styles and still add a clear hip hop touch to the wearer.

In addition to the most popular sports brands, there are plenty of other urban wear footwear brands which carry their own distinctive styles. In fact many of them not only sell footwear but are also known for their range of apparels and accessories. Etnies is one such brand which has a very colorful range of sneakers, guaranteed to blend in well with whatever you’re wearing. Two tone color patterns, tweed, graffiti prints and even loud colors such as blood red or gold are some of their popular designs. They have more than twenty designer ranges with at least five color options each. They even let customers design their own unique sneakers.

Besides footwear, the brand also sells apparels for boys, girls and kids. DC is another popular brand with a footwear collection for men, women, boys and kids which are another favorite. Footwear is available in four options- shoes, sandals, LX and water resistant footwear. The men’s collection comprises of footwear which are mostly in sober shades like black, brown and white whereas footwear for women is much more vibrant.

 Shades like blue, pink and patterns like tweed are also common. DC also has an interesting apparel and accessory range for both men and women. If you are unsure about which brand to buy, then check out websites like DrJays, Karmaloop and UrbanIndustry which offer a wider selection and feature top selling urban wear footwear brands.

Ragewear Hoodies Urban Wear Latest Fashion

Today, when you see a hoodie on display at a shop window with graffiti prints or witty one liners on it, it’s difficult to imagine that this piece of streetwear actually dates back to the 1930’s. In the Middle Ages, Catholic monks often wore long cowls with hoods in addition to their regular garments to set them apart from other people, much like the monk in the movie Robin Hood. With regard to hoodies being used by regular people, the practice began when labourers wore them as a measure to beat the cold in frozen warehouses.

The hoodie actually became popular only by the mid seventies, and was more commonly used by thieves and criminals because of the anonymity that the hood offered. The image has more or less stuck. Even today in fact, youngsters wearing hoodies are more often seen as trouble makers or rebels than people looking to add a dash of style to their clothing.

 The world of fashion took to this new clothing and soon designers like Norma Kamali and other well known designers attempted to play around with this piece of clothing by adding a very stylish touch to it. Movies like Rocky and other action packed flicks which revolved around wrestling; cage fighting and boxing spearheaded the popularity of hoodie as a garment for the youth. Within no time, it became a staple must have in the hip hop world, was seen on many athletes at sporting events and even entered campus life across America.

Hoodies today are available everywhere and sold by many brands in different shapes, colors, styles and patterns. RAGEWEAR has all the essentials that a streetwear fan looks for. Their range of t-shirts available as separate collections for both men and women are simply out of this world. Grunge prints, images of Fydo and other eye catching designs are a few of their hallmarks. If you like to keep it simple, then pick up one of their multi colored t-shirts with just the word RAGE on them. It’s an effective way to say a lot in just one word. Jazz up your attire with one of the RAGEWEAR caps available in three shades guaranteed to amp up your cool quotient. Ladies will adore the eye popping colored t-shirts in six bright summer shades with just the word RAGE written across the front.

It’s perfect to wear to classes and sexy enough for your Saturday date too. RAGEWEAR hoodies are a big hit with youngsters all across America because of their cool appeal with a distinctive hip hop street touch. These hoodies are available as both zipped and unzipped and have a unique style. The images and prints themselves are slightly faded to give an old look to the hoodies and carry the right mix of grunge and color. The prints either cover the whole back or are small enough to still get you noticed.

Log on to http://ragewear-clothing.com/ to buy the best in urban wear hoodie.