But, like any style moment – be it edgy summer floral wear, color dress shoes or retro sneakers – there are some who catch wind of the trend, splurge on the latest threads, and when putting it all together, sadly get it all wrong.
Despite the casual ease that street chic implies, it can be difficult to pull off such a youthful look without looking like a wanna-be teen in the process. In this article we’re going to take a look at what it takes to be ‘street chic’ – avoiding any chance of an outfit double up with a fashion forward fifteen-year-old.
Breaking It Down
Street chic is exactly what it sounds like: the surf/hip-hop/skate elements of American youth culture mixed with the likes of optimal, luxury labels. Combine synthetic fabrics (think nylons, neoprenes and satins) with cotton, cashmere and woollen fabrics; bringing texture to the outfits.
Then, remember to retain clean lines and correct fit. Street chic may give off a less structured and relaxed vibe than tailored pieces, but structure is paramount – avoid baggy tops and saggy bottoms. Finally, focus on minor details, like leather caps, tech savvy watches and cashmere scarfs to give street chic that final kick. It’s all about going from ‘eek’ to ‘chic’ in one fell swoop.
Monochrome Focused
Nothing says ‘street chic’ more than monochrome. Pairing solid blacks with bursts of white is a foolproof look for luxury streetwear, instantly dressing up any combination.
The tonal look that monochrome gives is all about wearing the outfit as one uniformed hue, and then adding pops of difference such as metallic zips, fabric contrasts (think leather backpacks on cotton jackets) and even wearing sneakers that carry a slight print or a bold burst of color, with an otherwise pared back outfit.
Think Digital
Just the same as you would with a smartphone, it’s time to upgrade the 2D prints in your wardrobe or move onto the real digital prints. These intricate fashion prints aren’t your average navy blue stripe or polka dot, they’re a more sophisticated graphic or pattern that projects a story onto the fabric.
The patterns are often life inspired and graphic, and often look molecular and futuristic in style because of the level of detail. Far more ‘mature’ than a typical print, work these graphics into tees and shirts, while letting the rest of your outfit be monochrome in style.
If you want to take the digital print a little further, think about incorporating digital patterns below the belt. Street chic can be a pair of patterned shorts or pants as the centerpiece of a monochrome outfit; remember the secret to chic is one burst of pop styled with a monochrome base.
Ultimate Chic Footwear
Sneakers really should be your only ‘street’ footwear consideration. And the ‘chic’ follows quickly in toe when you invest in a premium pair. Nothing gym ready is required here, we’re not talking about a chunky pair of Adidas with great endorsements for arch support. There’s only one ethos to follow: white for dressy, block colored for the brave and retro for quirky.
Above all, keep the sneakers clean and let the suave kicks do all the ‘street chic’ talking.
