Street Wear Underground The untold story

I've been a street wear designer for over 20 years, and I've seen the industry change and grow a lot in that time. When I first started out, the underground streetwear scene was a lot smaller and more niche. It was a place where creativity and innovation thrived, and where designers could experiment and push the boundaries of what was possible. It was also a place where designers could connect with their community and build relationships with other creatives.

The foundation of underground street wear can be traced back to the early days of hip hop culture. In the 1970s, hip hop was a new and emerging subculture, and its early adopters were often marginalized by mainstream society. As a result, they created their own fashion and style, which was a way to express their individuality and to connect with others who shared their interests.

Underground street wear was born out of this early hip hop culture. It was a way for young people to express themselves and to connect with others who shared their interests. It was also a way to rebel against the mainstream and to create their own identity.

In the early days, underground streetwear was largely self-made. Designers would create their own clothes, often using found materials or hand-me-downs. They would then sell their clothes at local markets or through word-of-mouth.

As underground street wear grew in popularity, it began to attract the attention of mainstream fashion brands. In the 1990s, major brands like Nike and Adidas began to release their own streetwear lines. This helped to legitimize underground street wear and to make it more accessible to a wider audience.

Today, underground streetwear is a global phenomenon. It is worn by people of all ages and backgrounds, and it is a major part of popular culture. However, it is important to remember its humble beginnings. Underground streetwear was born out of a desire for self-expression and community, and it continues to be a powerful force in fashion and culture.

By Craig Washington