Taking the streets by storm: Rise of streetwear

Streetwear refers to a style of casual clothing characterised by comfortable, loose-fitting clothing such as graphic t-shirts, hoodies, baggy pants, and sneakers. 

This style is believed to have begun in the 1980s and 1990s.

Streetwear fashion is heavily influenced by skateboarding culture, hip-hop or even military colours and patterns. 

This type of fashion, incorporates bold graphics, bright colours, and unique designs.

In recent years, streetwear has become increasingly popular among young people, with many high-end fashion brands also incorporating streetwear elements into their collections. 

One of the outstanding visuals of streetwear is the iconic logos on clothes.

The purpose of this is to enhance brand recognition,  status symbol and make a fashion statement. 

This fashion genre is the perfect one for individuals who want to express their creative prowess.

Kenya has not been left behind when it comes to this industry. With names such as Nairobi Apparel District, Metamorphosized by Daudi O, PigalukuCampaign, and BonkerzNRB among other great names. 

There are a number of factors that have led to the rise of streetwear in Kenya,

Celebrity influence

Celebrities have a huge influence on fashion trends, and this is no different in Kenya. The rise of streetwear has been driven by celebrities embraced the trend, making it popular among their fans. 

Youth culture

The rise of streetwear in Kenya can also be attributed to the youth.

The younger generation has a unique fashion sense that is different from their parents, and they have embraced streetwear as a way of expressing themselves. 

Local designers

There are many talented designers in Kenya who are creating unique and iconic streetwear designs that are popular not only in Kenya but also globally.

This has contributed to the rise of streetwear as a fashion trend in the country. 

Globalisation

The internet has made it possible for people in Kenya to access fashion trends from all over the world. This has led to a fusion of different styles thus contributing to the rise of streetwear. 

“Streetwear as a subgenre of fashion has grown immensely. Streetwear is going to be one of the highest consumed genres of fashion for the next 10 years. I dare say that it may play a part in defining African fashion as a whole," Mvoo, founder and creative director of the streetwear brand BonkerzNrb, as well as the co-founder of Pamba Nrb said.