Streetwear has undergone a massive transformation since its origin as a laid-back style to today’s appearance in mainstream fashion houses. In 2024, it stands out as one of the trending fashion styles, considering its diversity and complexity.
One of the subgenres of streetwear is baggy clothing. For the better part of the 21st years, men’s fashion has been dominated by slim-fit and skinny-cut clothes. Who wanted to see clothes hanging from your shoulder? However, with the rise of hip-hop fashion, baggy clothes have grown into mainstream fashion following the likes of Kanye West, Patrick Grant and Virgil Abloh.
But the main question remains: why are men turning in this direction?
Different Oversized Streetwear Looks and Their Inspirations
Oversized Coat
This has been the look that has been familiar with wallflowers ever since Sherlock Holmes adorned his cape and graced the screens.
When rocking this look, men typically go for a neutral shade, whether black, grey, white or navy blue. Going for a bright color will leave you looking like a clown or a soul singer right after finishing a performance in a corner pub.
You can either wear:
- Puffer jackets
- Parkas
- Technical coats
- Wool overcoats.
Depending on the occasion, oversized coats are the way to go.
Oversized Pants
If you had talked about baggy jeans in the mid-2000s and early 2010s, someone would look at you like you were mad.
One important thing when wearing baggy jeans is to mostly go cropped. A trouser that drags on the floor mostly comes out as messy. Also, going with pleated trousers may be a great option for a 1950s comeback look. But please, wear them correctly and do not look like a bag of maize.
Oversized Hoodies
If you are a hip-hop fanatic, then you must have lots of baggy hoodies in your wardrobe, or so I think. Everyone in the rap scene, from Eminem to Kanye West, is frequently seen walking in these blown-out of proportions attires. Mostly, you will find people wearing black as it hides all the shadows from the rounder parts of your body and focuses the eyes on the shape of the fabric.
The best way to go around these hoodies is to minimize artwork and graphics. Unless you are a man who loves being the center of attention, then minimum is better. But be warned, these won’t work for smart casual events, so just remain with your jeans and sneakers.
Why is Oversized Clothing Taking Over the Fashion World?
Comfortable and Versatile
You cannot compare the comfort between baggy and skinny clothes. Baggy outfits allow for freedom of movement since they are loose-fitting. This makes them especially likable to people who do not like staying in one place or those who love comfort when they are going on with their daily businesses.
Oversized clothes are also versatile as they can be dressed up or down to suit different occasions. You will go in them to work on your casual workdays and be comfortable during your weekend outings.
Body Positivity
The body positivity movement has caused baggy clothing to become more popular. This movement is created in a bid to help people embrace their bodies regardless of their shape or size. Baggy clothing creates a way to help people feel more comfortable in their skin, whether they are skinny or plus-size. This trend has given people the opportunity to wear what they want while disregarding traditional fashion standards.
Streetwear Culture
Oversized clothing is a key component of streetwear culture, which has a significant impact on current fashion trends. Streetwear fans have embraced and customized this fashion trend, making everything from baggy tees to baggy pants their own.
In Conclusion
With its dramatic changes throughout the years, fashion has gone a long way. The present fashion industry is dominated by the baggy clothes trend, which allows people to wear anything they want without having to adhere to conventional fashion rules. You should be aware, though, that while it works for many, it is not suitable for everyone.