We have mainstream media, music, culture, perspectives and yes, even fashion. And there are always people who like to stand on the outskirts of all things mainstream. You know the types: progressive and independent thinkers, who embrace irony and counter-culture idealism.
Or, as they’re commonly referred to as hipsters.
But what happens when the hipster look becomes a full-fledged fashion trend? It’s not really counter-cultural anymore. And without realizing it, countless people are hipsters – at least, from a fashionista’s point of view. Are you one of them?
The Hipster Look
The original hipsters were against fast fashion. So, you could expect to see a lot of second-hand steals and vintage pieces filling up their wardrobes.
But now that fast fashion – and even haute couture – has taken up hipster apparel, fashion brands make new pieces look old, weathered and worn. Chances are, you have quite a few hipster pieces in your closet, too.
Here are 20 common pieces that create the hipster look:
-
Ripped / Distressed Jeans
Ripped jeans aren’t very counter-cultural anymore. Everyone’s wearing them!
And we have the hipster movement to thank for that. Before they were in vogue, jeans of this sort wore out over time or were made by their ironic owner. Now, you can easily pay a pretty penny for these pants.
No products found.
-
Jean Jackets and Jean Vests
Jean jackets are quite a closet stable, but a cropped jean vest screams hipster. If you want to add it to your wardrobe, why not hit up your local thrift store and see what cool piece you can find?
-
Band Tees
Band tees fill department stores, Urban Outfitters and plenty of other shops. What bands do you typically see? Usually, the ones that were rocking and rolling long before you were born.
No products found.
-
Patterned Jeans
Floral patterns are another fashion trend that took its cue from the hipster movement. This cute pair from 7 For All Mankind is perfect.
-
Chambray
Following the jean theme, chambray is a popular material for button-ups, skirts, and dresses. This, too, is a hipster-esque style, but Olivia Palermo rocks it, so why not give it a try?
-
Overalls
You don’t have to work on the farm to sport a great pair of overalls. They’re comfortable, sexy and challenge the status quo. Minimalist fashion blogger, Caroline Rector of Un-Fancy, looks bomb with her dungarees.
-
Bohemian / South-Western / Hawaiian
In general, bohemian, southwestern and Hawaiian prints abound in the world of hipster fashion. But so do patterns from indigenous and native tribes. This is a source of contention, however, because some people aren’t sure if this is a way to honor, or exploit another culture.
-
Baggy, Oversized Sweaters
No products found.
The look that says, “I’m wearing my boyfriend’s sweater” is very hipster, and you can easily find great tops by rummaging through the men’s section at your closest thrift store. Otherwise, it’s easy to find oversized tops in fast fashion brands.
-
A camera as an Accessory
Cameras are a popular fashion accessory for many hipsters. And we’re not talking about digital cameras. We’re talking about good old, film and Polaroid cameras that were used in the good old days. Along with these older pieces of machinery, you can also find vinyl records, cassette tapes, and turntables.
-
Well-worn Converse
The more worn the better when it comes to your Converse high tops. It’s a way to add some edge to your outfit. Dirty and faded converse are too cool for school.
-
Doc Martens
These are another edgy shoe choice for hipsters and fashionistas alike. They can roughen up a more feminine look.
-
Headbands
Headbands and wraps harken back to music festivals and feminine movements. If they’re floral, or anything bohemian, they can add to your hipster style.
-
Wide Brim Hats
Perfect for bad hair days and summer sunshine, these hats are super popular. Beyonce wears them, proving that you can integrate different styles pieces and add your own flair to them, too.
-
Beanies
Beanies are a popular choice for both men and women alike. They can add a pop of color to your outfit, or they can help you blend right in. You can wear them in every season, and pairing them with some chunky frames is tres hipster.
-
Black Leather Ankle Boots
No products found.
Hipster has even hit haute couture. Givenchy makes a fine pair of black leather boots that evokes an earlier, less expensive fashion movement.
-
Crop Tops
When you pair a cropped tee with some high-waisted, ripped jeans, you’re a beatnik. Up the ante by wearing a band or plaid tee.
-
Plaid Patterns
Plain patterns, especially on baggy, oversized flannels, are quintessentially hipster. Companies like Anthropologie have got you covered for plaid that is both fun and feminine.
-
Collar
Collared tops give you an edgy school girl look, especially when you pair them with some black, leather boots and a beanie.
-
Scarves
Big, blanket scarves are a great accessory, but also very practical for the cooler seasons, too. Plaid, patterned, or neutral tones usually work best for the hipster look.
-
Ray Bans
No products found.
Ray Bans sunglasses are a universal favorite, but they work particularly well for free thinking fast fashionistas. High-end designers, like Stella McCartney, are catering to the ironic crowd with their own take on hipster.
And Jenna Lyons of J. Crew sports thick, chunky frames and has popularized what was once exclusively counter-culture eyewear.
How Has Hipster Influenced High Fashion?
The influence of hipster in the fashion world isn’t just for paupers like you and me. Celebrities love it, too. Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, Nikki Reed, Johnny Depp, Michael Cera, Zooey Deschanel, and Kristen Stewart are only a few of Hollywood’s darlings that go for plaid flannels and cropped tops.
Haute couture also plays with hipsters. Miu Miu, Vetements, and Gosha Rubchinskiy are only three of the leading names when it comes to hipster haute couture.
The hipster movement has a strong influence on the world of fashion. Has it snuck into your closet, too?
