CORPORATE silenced ORIGINAL voices... "urban streetwear verses modern"
- aloqwin
- 13 hours ago
- 5 min read
Streetwear emerged from a genuine and raw expression of urban life, shaped by economic constraints. It originated on the streets, crafted by individuals who experienced diverse backgrounds within the compact environment of city culture. In the 80s, corporations overlooked this rising Generation X culture, focusing instead on the profitable Rock & Roll and Pop music scenes. The 90s saw a more aggressive takeover as black culture expanded its global audio and visual influence. Major corporations entered the scene, appropriating the term "streetwear" and altering its meaning. It's crucial to listen to various perspectives rather than a single narrative about "HIS"-story. You may have noticed how something that once symbolized pride, creativity, and originality has become diluted, mass-produced, and sometimes simply uninteresting. Let's explore how this transformation occurred, why it matters, and how you can revive the authentic spirit of streetwear within yourself.
The Fabrics Woven Roots of Streetwear
Streetwear did originate from upscale design studios and glossy magazines; but not how one may logically think. It emerged from the hearts and creative minds of urban teens and young adults in cities like New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Nola, and Chicago. It was a fusion of urban cultural creativity, influenced by graffiti art, shared economic challenges, and a passion for contemporary music artists. People used clothing as genuine forms of personal expression, to project their identity, and to live in what was known as the underground, which was everything that mainstream culture dismissed.
Consider the original creators: they were teenagers and young adults with limited funds but plenty of style and attitude. They wore hoodies, graphic tees, baggy pants, spray painted jean jackets, and often customized sneakers that made them unique. I'm not referring to the modern popular brands like Stüssy, which has significant financial support and is linked to surfing, or Supreme, which simply adds its name to existing items. I'm speaking about brands like KARL KANI, which likely influenced FEAR OF GOD. These brands started as small, independent labels in different eras and resonated directly with emerging youth communities, BUT CONNECTED!
Streetwear was about more than just clothes. It was an everyday lifestyle, a way to connect with others who shared the same vibrational frequency. Authenticity was a must, creativity needed, and standing out without trying too hard was always the result back then.
When Greed Took Over: The Shift into Corporate
As streetwear gained popularity, large corporations saw profit opportunities. They entered the scene, acquired brands, and started producing streetwear-inspired collections. What was once authentic and exclusive became mainstream, lacking vitality, and ubiquitous.
This corporate invasion altered the landscape. Streetwear lost much of its originality and edge, turning into a focus on logos, hype, and mass appeal rather than culture and community. The essence of streetwear shifted from self-expression to a marketing strategy.
— all of this is ironic because Tommy Hilfiger and Timberland made it publicly known they are not connected to Black American Culture" —
You may have noticed how some brands now label anything as "streetwear," even if it doesn't align with the narrative. The style became diluted, and its connection to its origins weakened.
However, the original creators haven't vanished. They're still out there, producing clothing that reflects their culture and values. They just don't always receive the spotlight.
STAYING 100: How to Identify Genuine Streetwear
To remain faithful to the roots of streetwear, it's important to recognize key features. Genuine streetwear typically includes these elements:
Original designs that convey a story or represent a culture
High-quality materials that are durable and comfortable
A connection beyond mere fashion
For more insight, explore brands like ALOQWIN. They emphasize meaningful, art-infused streetwear that remains true to its original essence. Their collections combine comfort with striking designs inspired by lifestyle cultures, allowing you to connect with your true style.
Why Originality Matters More Than Ever
When corporations take over, they often focus on what sells, not what’s really means something to someone. The streetwear loses its soul. But you don’t have to settle for that. Wearing "authentic to your spirit "streetwear is about more than looking cool. It’s about supporting the inner you to feel alive shinning through it's outer shell.
FEEL how original streetwear personally connects you, to your story and helps you cross paths with your AGE OF AQUARIUS community. Express who you are without shouting. It’s about standing out by being true to yourself, not just following trends.
"Fabrics Rooted In Culture..."
How to Contribute to the Real Streetwear Direction?
If you are wondering how to find and support the original creators when the market is flooded with corporate knockoffs. Here are some tips:
Shop from what feels right those who focus on quality and culture, like ALOQWIN.
Look for advertised verses reality when the advertised fashion photo art is not even an option on their website.
Share your streetwear "GRWM" with communities, forums, social medias the algorithm will reveal other new and exciting authentic labels to discover.
Avoid brands that rely only on hype and logos without substance without a so(U)L.
Not to pat my own Aries back but, another great example of art to fit your canvas is the ALOQWIN CHAOTIC BEAUTY Cropped-top. The colorful butterfly art work is from spiritual designer, NIPPAWAS MOON. The story behind the design is beauty morphed from chaos, my life up to around 41 at that time. The fabric is soft, breathable, and made to last. It’s perfect for layering or rocking solo. Check it out here: ALOQWIN CHAOTIC BEAUTY.
The Future of Modern Streetwear: Evolving Without So(u)L
Streetwear is set to continue its evolution, undoubtedly. The crucial aspect is preserving its essence. This involves honoring the culture of individuality and supporting creators who naturally resonate with your style and their heritage.
Brands like ALOQWIN,
the fashion arm of the parent company RUDE EYE LAND COLLECTIVE 1973,
demonstrate that streetwear can evolve without compromising one's principles and values. We blend our youthful past experiences, from rebellious teenage years through college, with fresh ideas, crafting pieces that feel new yet authentic, as they stem from the artists' roots.
Wearing streetwear that honors its origins means more than just connecting with a new product; it means becoming part of a future community not driven by profit.
You've joined a journey that naturally flows with ethical values, creativity sourced from its origins, an Aquarian mindset towards community, and the Leo authenticity of staying true to oneself.
Streetwear is more than just clothes. It’s a culture, a voice, and a way to stand out by being yourself. Don’t let the corporate takeover fool you. The real streetwear is still alive, and it’s waiting for you to join in.
Ready to find your own unique style? Check out ALOQWIN for streetwear that keeps it real and helps you stand out with comfort and originality.
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