Street style has always been a barometer of shifting cultural, social, and fashion trends. Looking back at the evolution of streetwear from 2014 to 2024 reveals just how much the fashion world has changed in a decade. From bold statements to quieter minimalism, from 90s nostalgia to eco-consciousness, the transformation of street style over the past ten years is a reflection of the times. Let’s dive into how street style has evolved from 2014 to 2024 and what has shaped its transformation.
1. Influences and Cultural Shifts: From Hip-Hop to Sustainability
Street Style in 2014:
In 2014, hip-hop culture and skater aesthetics were dominant influences on street style. Oversized t-shirts, snapbacks, and chunky sneakers were all part of the ’90s nostalgia revival that took over the streetwear scene. Popular streetwear brands like Supreme, Off-White, and A Bathing Ape (BAPE) had already begun to make their mark, and collaborations between designers and streetwear brands were just starting to gain traction.
Social media, particularly Instagram, was becoming a crucial platform for street style, with influencers starting to have significant sway over what was considered “cool.” Street style was about individuality, showcasing how fashion could be a blend of luxury, grunge, and comfort. Athleisure was also starting to make its mark, combining casual sportswear with everyday outfits.
- Notable Trends in 2014:
- Snapbacks and baseball caps.
- Graphic tees and oversized sweatshirts.
- Sneakers, especially Air Jordans and Nike collaborations.
- Denim on denim.
- Layered looks with hoodies and varsity jackets.
Street Style in 2024:
By 2024, street style has become even more globalized and sophisticated, moving beyond the traditional boundaries of hip-hop and skate culture. Influenced by a combination of sustainability, social movements, and digital-first aesthetics, street style now reflects a much broader range of cultures and aesthetics. Influencers are no longer just individuals in a few cities—they come from all corners of the world, influencing trends across diverse demographics.
The role of sustainability is crucial in today’s streetwear, with brands focusing on eco-conscious materials and upcycling. Additionally, as social media platforms like TikTok and Pinterest have become the go-to sources for inspiration, street style in 2024 feels more personalized than ever before, with micro-trends often coming and going in a matter of weeks.
- Notable Trends in 2024:
- Sustainable streetwear, made from recycled materials or eco-friendly fabrics.
- Tech-infused fashion, like smart fabrics or wearable tech.
- Minimalist aesthetics with sleek lines and neutral tones.
- Vintage and upcycled pieces (e.g., thrifted and reworked denim).
- Genderless fashion, with oversized fits and fluid silhouettes.
2. Key Pieces: From Logos to Sustainability
Street Style in 2014:
In 2014, one of the hallmarks of streetwear was its emphasis on brand recognition. Bold logos, large graphics, and luxury collabs dominated the landscape. Wearing pieces with prominent brand names—whether it was Supreme, Champion, or Yeezy—was often seen as a symbol of status, and the larger the logo, the better. This was a time when logos were loud and proud, and consumers were eager to showcase their affiliations.
- Notable Key Pieces in 2014:
- Logo-heavy hoodies (think Supreme and Gucci collaborations).
- Chunky sneakers (like Adidas Yeezy or Nike Air Max).
- Varsity jackets with bold patches.
- Graphic t-shirts and oversized sweatshirts.
Street Style in 2024:
Fast forward to 2024, and the focus has shifted from obvious branding to subtle, refined design. While logos are still present, they are often more understated, with smaller branding or logo placements that create a more refined, minimalist look. The rise of sustainable fashion has also impacted key pieces, with more emphasis placed on the longevity and quality of clothing rather than its brand visibility.
- Key Pieces in 2024:
- Neutral-toned pieces, with an emphasis on earthy hues and monochromatic outfits.
- Reworked vintage pieces that celebrate the uniqueness of second-hand fashion.
- Techwear-inspired gear, such as utility vests, performance jackets, and functional sneakers.
- High-end streetwear that embraces minimalism, like Aime Leon Dore, Stone Island, and Fear of God.
3. Footwear: From Chunky to Sleek
Street Style in 2014:
Footwear in 2014 was characterized by chunky sneakers and sneaker culture taking center stage. The rise of collaborations between athletic brands and high-end designers (think Yeezy x Adidas or Nike x Off-White) cemented sneakers as the ultimate streetwear statement piece. These shoes were often bulky, with high-profile designs that stood out as both fashion-forward and functional.
- Sneakers in 2014:
- Yeezy Boosts and Nike Air Jordans.
- New Balance and Nike SB collaborations.
- Chunky silhouettes, like the Fila Disruptor or Reebok Instapump.
- Custom kicks with vibrant colors or unique designs.
Street Style in 2024:
As we approach 2024, sneakers have become sleeker and more tech-forward. While chunky sneakers are still popular, there’s a noticeable shift towards minimalist silhouettes with a focus on comfort and sustainability. The emphasis is on clean lines, neutral tones, and innovative materials like recycled polyester or plant-based leather. There’s also a shift towards sustainable sneaker brands like Allbirds, Nike’s Move to Zero initiative, and Adidas’ Parley collection.
- Sneakers in 2024:
- Tech-infused sneakers, like those with adaptive fit technology.
- Sustainable sneakers made with eco-friendly materials.
- Sleek, streamlined silhouettes, such as the Nike Air Max 2024 and adidas Ultraboost.
- Performance-driven designs that also look good on the street.
4. Gender Fluidity: Breaking Down Fashion Norms
Street Style in 2014:
In 2014, street style was still largely defined by binary gender norms. Clothing was typically divided into men’s and women’s categories, with streetwear for men leaning heavily on oversized fits and athletic-inspired clothing, while women’s street style often involved tight-fitting jeans or feminine-inspired pieces paired with oversized jackets or hoodies.
- Gendered Street Style Trends in 2014:
- Baggy jeans or cargo pants for men, paired with oversized t-shirts.
- Skinny jeans and tight tops for women, often with chunky sneakers.
Street Style in 2024:
By 2024, gender fluidity has taken over, with streetwear no longer adhering strictly to traditional gender lines. Oversized fits, fluid silhouettes, and unisex designs are now commonplace, and androgynous fashion is embraced as a norm rather than a statement. Designers and streetwear brands are intentionally creating pieces that can be worn by anyone, regardless of gender, and this inclusive shift has brought a new level of freedom to street style.
- Gender-Neutral Street Style in 2024:
- Unisex fits with oversized shirts, jackets, and pants.
- Genderless collections from brands like Telfar and The Row.
- Athleisure and sportswear being embraced by all genders.
- Fluid silhouettes with a focus on personal expression rather than gender expectation.
Conclusion: A Decade of Change in Street Style
Looking at street style in 2014 vs. 2024, it’s clear that fashion has evolved dramatically. What was once dominated by logo-driven, sportswear-influenced looks has now shifted toward sustainable, minimalist, and gender-neutral expressions of style. While certain elements from 2014 remain relevant—like oversized fits and casual comfort—the focus now is on conscious consumption, personalization, and global influences.
Street style in 2024 has grown to reflect not just changes in fashion but also in society’s attitudes toward sustainability, inclusivity, and individuality. The decade-long evolution showcases how fashion can mirror cultural shifts, embracing new ideals while still holding onto the spirit of the streets
What’s the problem?
Trees are more important today than ever before. More than 10,000 products are reportedly made from trees. Through chemistry, the humble woodpile is yielding chemicals, plastics and fabrics that were beyond comprehension when an axe first felled a Texas tree.
