Juzd Urban Wear

Urban wear is slowly taking on a shade of green. Just like many other industries are waking up to the fact that we all have a role to play in preserving the environment, the garment industry is making small changes too. For instance, some brands endorse graphics drawn with water or natural dye ink as opposed to chemical based inks. Juzd is an urban wear brand with a difference. The label is a spin off from the word ‘ Juiced’, and means ‘to be unstoppable or undefeatable’ . It was one of the first streetwear brands to venture into the untapped market of organic clothing and actually make it hip to be worn. This one year old brand, with its base in Canada, uses bamboo in its garments and projects itself as the world’s first bamboo designer clothing.

The idea behind starting such a brand itself was to develop a label that respected nature and human beings too. But why bamboo you may ask? The manufacturers claim that bamboo has many natural qualities such as being anti bacterial in nature. It also absorbs sweat, has insulating properties, is hypoallergenic and is very comfortable to wear. Their shirts are made from custom designed and milled bamboo fabric, and garments designed for females also have 5% spandex for a better fit. Loud graphics, painting like artwork, and other prints are a common feature found in their collections. Juzd designers claim that they get easily inspired by anything and the focus is to create innovative designs that stand out. The brand also makes a maximum of only 35 prints per design, which means that they are exclusive and yet sell out.

Juzd Streetwear however takes a slightly different approach when it comes to publicity and brand awareness. They were invited to show their edgy designs at a fashion show in March held at the Miami Beach in Florida. The fashion show itself was a part of the birthday bash that was held for Fergie, a singer from the popular band The Black eyed Peas. The innovative eco friendly designs, which featured their Spring/Summer collection as well as a peek into their upcoming Fall/Winter collection, were a big hit. The Toronto Fashion week, held in Canada, during the month of October, is a world class event that brings together Canadian designers and labels. The show itself is held to showcase the best in Canadian fashion and to promote local talent. A fashion show usually brings to mind haute couture and other designer collections, but the Juzd streetwear collection was also invited to be part of this important event. So not only was the brand able to showcase the best of its designs, but also had the opportunity to educate the audience about organic clothing itself.

Brands like Juzd Streetwear, Roots and Affliction which are all into manufacturing organic clothing, help pave the way for a better tomorrow. Fashion with a conscience seems to be the new streetwear mantra.

Create the Fashion Future

Nothing can be more difficult than predicting the future- that’s why the unwritten law of fashion remains to ‘create the future’ as opposed to waiting for trends to happen. In order to create a trend that is talked about, worn and appreciated, it is important for retailers to understand what Generation Next really wants. Not surprising then that major clothing brands spend huge amounts to conduct surveys and research, in an attempt to comprehend what style and fashion really mean to youngsters. Where is Urban Wear, which is the rage among youngsters, headed to and what could be the new trends that we can expect to see? To answer that we need to look back in time.

Urban Wear had a birth like probably no other clothing style. It was initially created in the early eighties, with the intention of dressing people differently. Hip hop artists, rap artists, surfers and skateboarders stepped in to add their individual signatures to streetwear, thus indirectly making it a huge hit with youngsters. Urban wear was initially meant to be worn by youngsters who were rebellious by nature or just did not fit in with society in general. With time, Urban Wear slowly became the ‘must have’ and ‘must be seen in’ fashion statement. As the flavors of urban wear spread worldwide, dozens of commercial retailers stepped in to bring streetwear closer to the masses. The earliest urban wear clothing was simple yet distinct from the other fashion styles of that time. Over sized t-shirts, baggy jeans, jazzy sneakers and flat billed hats soon became the hallmarks of streetwear fashion. Over the years however, streetwear has moved away from the original movement and has inducted more styles, cuts, designs and patterns into its clothing. Its definition changed to ‘hip clothing with a distinctive touch of style’.

Since Urban Wear slowly moved up form the alleys of America to posh neighborhoods- one can predict that its popularity will only increase. Streetwear collections are likely to expand their clothing options for children and may even develop styles specifically for the untapped adult segment. Designs and styles may become more flamboyant with more emphasis placed on original artworks, sketches and drawings. T shirts and tops with such designs may even be released in limited editions, to make the garment truly one of a kind. More experimentation with colors, designs and styles can be expected. With the support shown towards green clothing which has been manufactured keeping the environment in mind, it is possible that Urban Wear may soon wear a touch of green too. Streetwear that has been manufactured using organic alternatives and with designs made from water or soy based ink may trigger a new trend and make us more environmentally conscious in the coming years. More Urban Wear labels with collections designed by upcoming music artists are also likely to color the fashion scene.

Ardent streetwear fans actually have a lot to look forward to. Simply because the world of fashion has yet to explore the full potential of Urban Wear.

Crowded Elevator

Streetwear brands all across the world, stay tuned to local tastes, while ensuring that the original flavour and substance of urban wear is not lost. In Europe particularly, urban wear is not simply designed to make the wearer stand out- focus is also placed on creating smart funky wear with the right dash of color. Crowded Elevator is one such brand with its roots in New Zealand, and is steadfastly becoming a hot favourite with youngsters. This brand was founded by Carl Thompson, who wanted to create his own line of clothing that was unique. The result was a brand that puts the funk back in streetwear. The fresh line is aimed at youngsters who defy all norms of fashion. T-shirts with very distinct cuts, neon bright graphics, catchy slogans and retro fonts are a signature of this collection. The people behind the brand claim that their presence in streetwear itself has grown remarkably and also that they can be found in most streetwear stores across New Zealand.

The brand started by manufacturing t-shirts, but slowly ventured into hoodies and singlets as well. Over the years the brand increased its product line by adding dresses, skirts, shorts, tights and even jeans which are very popular even today. The launch of their ‘sweet NZ tees’, was like a tribute to their country. Slogans such as ‘NZ is home’ and other graphics were a big hit with youngsters who immediately took to the unusual t-shirts. Crowded Elevator was invited to be a part of the New Zealand Fashion Week ’08, which showcases the best in New Zealand fashion. Fans get a chance to see their favourite brands up and close, and local brands get a boost too. Crowded Elevator had an outstanding presence at the fashion show where their winter’09 collection centered on the theme’ Electric Universe’ was widely appreciated. Hoodies, jeans as well as graphic t-shirts for both men and women w ere some of the designs showcased.

Crowded Elevator also has an outstanding website, which is a must see for a streetwear fan. The latest collections can be viewed online, and there is even a monthly newsletter which can be signed up for, so that you have the latest updates. Becoming a member also lets you take part in contests and other events. In addition, photos, news and other information can also be viewed. You can even make your purchase online and leave comments or feedback about the brand. The latest venture that Crowded Elevator has been part of is in collaboration with a charity organization called Kids Can Stand Tall. Designers were asked to create designer footwear pieces which are called the 2009 Designer Jandals. The footwear is easily affordable and a part of the profits from each sale are given to the charity organization. The footwear designs are fun, vibrant and young at heart. They make a perfect accompaniment to any ensemble, and are very comfortable to wear too. Crowded Elevator has created a new streetwear trend which will only grow in years to come.

Brand Name & Their Logo

A logo on a piece of clothing reveals a lot. It talks about the preferred brand and style of the wearer, the kind of money he is willing to invest in looking good and indirectly enhances brand promotion as well. It is difficult to estimate exactly when the first logo was stitched on to a garment- it is believed that the first logo came into use as early as 1910. Today however, logos are as famous as the brands themselves- in other words, a logo is an accepted substitute for the brand name itself. Millions of people all over the world identify products simply by the logo. Some people may be die hard fans of only one to two clothing labels, whereas many others have no such preferences at all.

Urban wear itself, has come a long way from its humble origins. Although urban wear lovers claim that this street fashion has become too commercialized for its own good, there are yet others who argue that smaller labels that have stayed true to the spirit of urban wear have only grown in popularity. Many sports wear brands such as Nike and Reebok have ventured into street wear, in an attempt to get closer to what the youth really want. If it is streetwear in its pure, undiluted form that you want to be dressed in, which brand do you turn to then?

Choose RAGE WEAR Clothing. To understand the heart of this brand, all you need to do is take a good look at its logo. The logo is that of a powerful bull elephant, who signifies strength and has an intimidating stare. If a logo could talk, then this elephant ironically named Fydo, would tell the world “Not to make the mistake of messing with you”. In other words, the logo says what you don’t have to. RAGE WEAR is not just about a menacing logo- it’s about great urban wear style too. RAGEWWEAR Clothing has a fantastic range of t-shirts, in different sizes and colours with the word RAGEwear written across the front or other faded prints of Fydo. The plain colored t-shirts stylishly carry a small image of Fydo on the back, so that everybody knows you are wearing the Rage. This brand does not compromise on comfort, so you are assured of 100% ringspun soft cotton wear, which promises to last. Check out their range of both zipped and unzipped hoodies with full length faded prints across the back. The grunge look adds a touch of authenticity making it seem as if you have owned your hoodie for years. For the ladies, RAGE WEAR has an exclusive all women’s collection of t-shirts, in bright peppy shades. They are soft on the skin, light weight and tapered for a great fit. A small image of Fydo on the back, packs in a ton of attitude.

So, the next time you want to send a silent yet unmistakable message across, let RAGEWEAR do all the talking. And then, enjoy the silence.

Urban Wear in the UK

Streetwear which originated in America, was quick to spread to nearby countries such as the UK and Europe within a short time. Hundreds of youngsters got hooked onto this new way of dressing which had in-depth meaning to it. Streetwear was a statement in fashion that was not limited to any particular stream of thought or design. It has been surmised that street wear has become too commercialized in the recent years and that has drawn the focus away from authentic urban wear clothing. On the flip side however, the foray of multinational brands into urban wear has also successfully brought it within reach to the masses. Youngsters all across the world are influenced by different external elements and often these influences and inspirations are featured in street wear too. Over the years, urban wear has not only oomphed up the definition of style but has also become an item of clothing that speaks for you.

In the UK, urban wear has become such a casual norm that many people don’t even realize that they are wearing fashion with a deep rooted history behind it. Popular styles that can be seen here are flashy prints, graffiti like designs, and especially images of hip hop stars or of animated figures. However, unlike in Japan where the popular animated character is Hello Kitty, prints of action heroes like the X-Men, movies like Star Wars and even drawings that feature deathly themes like skulls and ghosts are in style here. In fact, hoodies that have been inspired by Star Wars characters such as Darth Vader, are quite popular. T-shirts and hoodies even carry full length modern designs on the back, which are very stylish. Many brands have special collections for kids, featuring hoodies with basic designs or trousers with prints on them.

There is no lack of street wear brands here in the UK, and each one of them is unique in terms of signature styles and collections. ‘ Addict’ is one such brand with clothing for men and women. Their collections include denim, accessories, jackets and t-shirts with both graphic prints and retro styles. Their range of designs will please any kind of street wear fan. ‘ Urban Venom’ goes one step further in customized designs by offering airbrush artworks which can be placed on t-shirts or even trainers. Customers can choose from a number of celebrity pictures or choose to place their own portraits on their clothing. The website also retails other street wear brands, thereby giving customers a wider range to select from. ‘Yes No Maybe’, is another label that’s a must for those who want to wear something saucy and ironic. Witty liners, eye catching graphics, and prints in youthful colors are their hallmarks. Their designs are guaranteed to get you attention wherever you go.

Street wear in the UK is a delightful mix of attitude, style and design. One can safely assume that generations after will still be wearing urban wear, perhaps in more groundbreaking designs.

Want it - Feel it - Wear it

Looking good in streetwear is not just about wearing faded t-shirts or oversized sneakers. Just as fashion keeps changing with the times and fresh ideas make an appearance in people’s wardrobes, streetwear changes its face from time to time. The underlying idea remains the same - fashion that was born on the streets, attitude that doesn’t fit and styles that are low lying yet hip. The best way to wear streetwear is to make it your own personal fashion statement. For example, get a pair of scruffy jeans, do a bit of embroidery work on the front and back, or create you own design using a set of gilt pens. Not only will you really own a pair of unique jeans that can’t be bought anywhere else, but it feels great to wear your personal idea of fashion.

Where do you look for fashionable urban wear then? Well, lots of labels have their own websites where you can comfortably flip through their product catalogues, check out their upcoming collections and even purchase online. Brands like Karmaloop, Dr Jays and Sean John are quite popular among youngsters. These brands have separate lines of clothing for men and women and sell accessories as well. T shirts with sassy statements on them, funky images, hoodies with style and stylish accessories are some features of these brands. When you visit their respective websites, you know that these are brands that take looking good seriously. There’s nothing complicated about surfing them either, and if you’re in luck you could find yourself some really good deals and bargains online.

However, if you don’t want the mainstream brands, try RAGEWEAR Clothing. This brand was launched in June 2009 and is building up a solid and huge fan base, across the length and breadth of the nation. They cover the a- z of street wear and will be expanding their current collection even further. The best part about these clothes is that there’s nothing overtly complicated about them, yet they carry a subtle statement of style. Check out their t-shirts for instance. The RAGEWEAR t-shirts come in a variety of colors with prints of a ‘don’t mess with me’ elephant on them or just the word RAGE. Although the word rage in the label signifies clothing that is in style and trendy; as a single word on a t-shirt, it can be interpreted as signifying rebellion - an idea that is well in keeping with the birth of urban wear itself. Women will look hip in the trendy RAGEWEAR designs exclusively for them and the current collection will be expanded soon to include sweat pants, beanie caps, and girl’s shorts. RAGEWEAR clothing is true blood American wear that’s not just comfortable to wear but also designed by people who believe in creating the urban fashion of tomorrow. Try RAGEWEAR Clothing for yourself today.

Singapore Street Wear

It is amazing to see how street wear has spread across the globe over the years. What began as a movement with a certain identity soon began to adapt to local preferences and demands. In Asia alone, various countries interpret street wear differently. The Japanese prefer multi colored garments with animated characters on them, whereas the Chinese love streetwear that features Chinese motifs, huge oversized prints and flashy colors. Singapore is a country known for its huge diversity in terms of population, cultures and people. Singaporeans themselves are known for their fabulous sense of dressing, as well as their preferences for more conventional styles. Not surprisingly, streetwear exists here but can be found mostly in the wardrobes of youngsters. Older adults prefer to wear designer labels and other kinds of casual clothing.


The streetwear scene in Singapore began quite late in the mid nineties as opposed to other countries where this new fashion statement had emerged in the early eighties. Since the society itself was traditional by nature, the youth weren’t very comfortable with wearing clothes that were supposed to signify rebellion, at the beginning. Over the years however, that notion has changed, and today many youth have no qualms about being seen in garments that are officially considered ‘cool’ and ‘hip’. The Internet and its access to the latest happenings in the world has played a pivotal role in defining style as well. Since Singapore itself is open to other cultures and plenty of influences especially in entertainment and in fashion- streetwear here is a peculiar mix of influences as diverse as American, Japanese, European and Taiwanese urban wear. Certain styles such as over sized graphics glow in the dark designs and garments in peppy colors are the preferred street wear fashion here.

Streetwear brands focus on reaching out to the youth, while respecting their culture and values at the same time. In fact, local brands here claim that the biggest challenge is to create fashion that is tuned into local tastes while competing on par with other global brands. 77th Street was one of the first streetwear brands to set shop in Singapore and today they have more than 14 outlets throughout the island. Besides retailing great streetwear, they are also very popular for their accessories such as duffel bags in various prints, caps with prints on them and unisex jewellery. Brands like ‘Know it Nothing’ and ‘White Room’ cater to a very niche segment, whereas other youthful brands like ‘What’s Good’, ‘Asylum’ and ‘Flesh Imp’ have a larger customer base. ‘What’s Good’ stocks international streetwear labels and successfully retailed a streetwear package in collaboration with another brand in Hong Kong, only for $349. The package included a t-shirt, a pair of jeans and a cap, and was a big hit with youngsters. The brand ‘Actually’ has a good collection of bags available in funky designs and styles. Some of them even carry witty liners. Even if Singapore is relatively new to the streetwear scene, we can assume that its popularity will only grow stronger over the years.