After finding its roots in the LA skate and surf culture, it’s safe to say that streetwear has become a global movement. With elements from Japanese street culture, hip hop fashion, and ’80s street art, streetwear has made its way into being essential, to the point where it’s even considered modern haute couture. (Think Louis Vuitton’s AW’17 menswear collection, where Kim Jones collaborated with Supreme.) And while brands like Supreme and Stüssy have certainly made their mark, it’s about time we turned to homegrown streetwear labels for our own street style inspiration.
Far from being imitators of the west, Indian streetwear brands explore distinct subcultures, ideas, and identities in our own country – while still maintaining the aesthetic appeal and general ~vibe~ of western streetwear. From long statement jackets to oversized joggers, to, of course, bucket hats, homegrown streetwear labels have got ’em all, and we’re letting you in on our faves ahead.
1. SIX5SIX
The brainchild of brother-sister duo Avni and Ambar Aneja, SIX5SIX is all about expression. With clothing inspired by everyday life, pop culture, and even music, the brand is an amalgamation of culture with everyday life.
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2. Prakhar
With separates and co-ords that are inspired by prints ranging from animals to the works of Satyajit Ray, Prakhar is a vibrant homegrown streetwear label, that is ‘achievable edgy’ – featuring clothing that is youthful and vibrant, but at the same time not too flamboyant to wear daily.
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3. Origin
Revolving around pop and counter-culture, Origin is a refreshing and authentic homegrown streetwear label. Expect bright pops of colour, topical, catchy slogans, and breezy silhouettes from this brand.
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4. NOUGHTONE
With a utilitarian aesthetic that carefully toes the line with traditional design, NoughtOne is a fascinatingly conceptualized homegrown streetwear label, complete with sharp tailoring and luxe fabrics, that screams functionality while still remaining über fashionable.
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5. BISKIT
Created by Shruti and Harsha Biswajit, BISKIT envisions a society where everyone is equal – and its vision comes to life in the form of unisex clothing that can be worn by anyone. With minimalist clothing, a primarily black and white colour palette, and geometric silhouettes, we’re loving this Madras-based label’s gender-neutral approach to streetwear.
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6. Jaywalking
With deconstruction, experimentation and the juxtaposition of its founder Jay Jajal’s memories and attitude, Jaywalking has definitely been a disruptor in the streetwear space. The homegrown streetwear label showcases elements of modern design, interspersed with boxy silhouettes and gender-fluid pieces.
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7. NorBlack NorWhite
Founded by Mumbai-based, Toronto-raised Indian designers Mriga Kapadiya and Amrit Kumar, NorBlack NorWhite explores and challenges notions of colonialism, representation and appropriation through its clothing, complete with tie-die separates, bandhani prints, and flowy silhouettes.
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