Not Just Streetwear: Decoding the Obscure Subgenres of Techwear, Skate, High Fashion and More

HYPERION encapsulates the dynamic status and accelerated trajectory of streetwear with neon signage-style motifs, putting Tokyo fashion at center stage.

Fashion has always followed a somewhat cyclical rhythm, but no style has marched to the beat of its own drum quite like streetwear. As trendy as it is enduring, and as casual as it is exclusive, the paradoxical nature of streetwear has captivated legions of followers across generations. It’s almost hard to believe it’s only been less than half a century — or even just thirty years if you start counting from when it caught on.

Even so, neck and neck with its gothic, preppy, avant-garde, and other stylistic counterparts, streetwear has given rise to a barrage of subgenres that have come and, well, never faded. The futuristic air of techwear, the blinged-out swankiness of high fashion, and the relaxed silhouette of athleisure are all examples of the diverse, evolving and never one-size-fits-all facets of streetwear.

At SKINARMA, home of street-styled accessories and apparel, we’re all for what streetwear has to offer. Get the lowdown of its subclasses with us here.

What’s the Deal with Streetwear?

ALPHA draws influence from 90s’ racing jerseys, deploying angled sleeves, dynamic branding and a contrasting palette of black, red and white for a high-octane look.

We’re not kidding when we say streetwear’s generation X. The origins of this distinctive style, which flipped the script on fashion, trace back to New York’s self-expressive hip-hop culture in the late 1970s. Combining comfort with individuality, early streetwear borrowed much from graffiti art and the rebellious nature of the urban street scene. Later, it amalgamated with California’s free-spirited lifestyle. One remarkable event was when a designer began selling t-shirts featuring the same hand-drawn logo that adorned his surfboards. This person was none other than the forefather of streetwear, Shawn Stüssy.

But streetwear’s evolution is not limited to the influence of one isolated nation. The dazzling nightlife of Japan, for example, has had an unquestionable impact  on the industry, contributing to its sensationalism with bright colors and eye-catching designs. Some of Japan’s most illustrious streetwear brands emerged then, such as BAPE in 1993. Thus, streetwear is often regarded as a patchwork of subcultures — with many high-fashion brands joining the ranks owing to clever collaborations with streetwear designers — creating a dynamic and ever-evolving fashion landscape.

Techwear

KIRA KOBAI (iPhone 16 Pro Max)’s integrated grip-stand, motorsport-inspired motifs and reflective details synchronize with the high-speed demands of metropolitan life, even for a cybernetic future.

Techwear is a prominent aspect of streetwear, known for its cutting-edge and ultra-modern approach to fashion. Notably, it finishes utility clothing, especially those packed with advanced materials and features, with sleek and monochromatic colorways. Designers of urban techwear have their sights set on performance, creating an aesthetic that feels organically futuristic. 

Skate

FUTURA’s loose fit is decked out with glitch-like effects and technical-style markings, for making statements on and off the board. While you’re at it, elevate your look with an AirPods case featuring carabiners for added edge — to keep your essentials close, even when you’re soaring through the air.

Skatewear, true to its name, is all about skateboarding culture, which kicked off in California when surfers needed a way to stay busy during flat waves. This fashion style puts comfort and a laid-back attitude first, with baseball hats, skate shorts, beanies, flannels, and of course, graphic tees leading the charge. The whole look comes together for a personalized style that creates a perpetual Californian summer, rain or shine. 

High Fashion

This slim and lightweight clutch is a rarity in a sea of clichéd designs. With ample space for daily necessities, and the option of doubling as a crossbody sling, COMET delivers couture-level casual with effortless city swagger.

High fashion streetwear, also known as “hypebeast”, is a type of streetwear that celebrates limited-edition drops from sought-after brands. Hypebeasts live for securing these exclusive pieces, often featuring bold logos on streetwear staples like sweatpants and oversized t-shirts, as well as go-to accessories like bags, hats and sunglasses. These coveted items bring a touch of luxury that takes even the simplest pieces to the next level. It’s no surprise that celebrities, such as hip-hop artists, are eager to get their hands on them.

Athleisure

2-in-1 Apple Watch case and strap SAIDO is saturated with technicolor hues for a standout look paired with all your branded athleisure staples. The translucent finish adds an avant-garde touch to let your style shine with every move.

Athleisure blends the best of athletic wear and streetwear. While this hybrid style may look performance-driven, it’s not just for sports — it’s for anyone seeking comfortable, stylish options for everyday wear. Hoodies, tracksuits and sneakers all make up the off-duty ensemble that defines athleisure. It’s sportier than other streetwear styles, but has played a big role in shaping the evolution of street fashion.

Y2K

MECHA (AirPods Pro 2nd Gen) merges past and future with a bold, retro-futuristic shell that redefines the turn of the century in each and every hardware-focused layer.

The late ‘90s and early 2000s have made a powerful comeback in music, entertainment and fashion — and we couldn’t be more thrilled. The noughties were all about fun, sometimes kitschy aesthetics, and they’ve found their way into streetwear through a blast of bright colors, metallics and glossy materials. A bit of shine or a glitzy accessory can really amp up any outfit — just ask Paris Hilton. A marriage of retro and futuristic has a chokehold on us with a tech-forward vibe that feels simultaneously timeless, and innovative.

Minimalist

Find streetwear cool in the most unexpected places… Like at work. Our JUNO laptop sleeve sports an embossed cross-hatch design for a minimalistic air, complemented by soft, muted colors. You won’t have to look hard to find the SKINARMA label.

Can streetwear really be minimalist? You’d be surprised. This twist on conventional streetwear welcomes clean lines and understated designs into the vibrant and eclectic world of urban style. With easy-on-the-eyes and cohesive designs, minimalist streetwear often features liberal amounts of negative space against pared down graphics, like a discreet logo as the focal point. Modern, mature and effortlessly neutral, minimalist streetwear is the refreshing and sophisticated breath of fresh air perfect for a capsule wardrobe. 

Break Down Streetwear with SKINARMA

A crystal-clear case for crystal-clear sound, SAIDO keeps it pristine with streamlined protection for the earphones you can’t live without.

Streetwear has always been about challenging the status quo, and its various subgenres continue to disrupt fashion in exhilarating ways. From the futuristic edge of techwear to the nostalgic flair of Y2K, each dimension brings a one-of-a-kind twist to the urban sartorial scene. At SKINARMA, we embrace this dynamic evolution and invite you to explore how these trends redefine streetwear and set new standards in fashion. Explore our catalog now. 

Join our SKRM community and gain exclusive access to our latest drops in iPhone cases, AirPod gear, and streetwear essentials today.