Streetwear fashion has taken the world by storm in recent years. Asia has emerged as a hotbed for some of the most innovative and exciting streetwear brands around.
Streetwear fashion is a style of clothing that originated from youth culture in the 1980s and 1990s, primarily in urban areas of the United States. It was heavily influence by the hip-hop music scene, as well as skateboarding and graffiti art.
One of the defining characteristics of streetwear fashion is the focus on comfort and functionality. This often means oversized silhouettes, baggy pants, and loose-fitting tops. The use of athletic wear, such as sneakers and tracksuits, is also common.
Another key aspect of streetwear fashion is its use of bold graphics and bright colors. T-shirts, hoodies, and other clothing items often feature eye-catching designs, logos, and slogans.
Irezumi Empire is one of the top brands that strive to offer both comfortable and unique Asian streetwear fashion. Read Irezumi Empire Review for detailed information. 
Best Asian Streetwear Brands
From Japan to South Korea, streetwear brands are pushing boundaries and setting trends that are influencing the global fashion industry. In this article, we will take a closer look at 10 of the best Asian streetwear brands that are worth knowing about.
-
A Bathing Ape (BAPE) – Japan
A Bathing Ape, popularly known as BAPE, is one of Japan’s most recognisable streetwear companies. Founded in 1993 by Nigo, the brand is popular for its bold graphics and signature camouflage print. BAPE has collaborated with some of the biggest names in fashion, including Kanye West and Pharrell Williams.
-
Visvim – Japan
Visvim is a Japanese streetwear brand that focuses on high-quality materials and craftsmanship. Founded in 2001 by Hiroki Nakamura, Visvim draws inspiration from Native American and Japanese cultures. The brand is famous for its handcrafted sneakers, boots, and jackets, which are made from premium materials like leather, suede, and denim.
-
Supreme – Japan
Founded in New York in 1994, Supreme is a skateboarding-inspired streetwear brand. However, the brand has gained a huge following in Asia, particularly in Japan. Supreme is famous for its bold graphics and collaborations with artists and musicians. The brand has also partnered with high-end fashion houses like Louis Vuitton.
-
Undercover – Japan
Undercover is a Japanese streetwear brand launched in 1990 by Jun Takahashi. The brand is famous for its avant-garde designs, which often feature unusual materials and intricate details. Undercover has collaborated with brands like Nike and Uniqlo, as well as with musicians like Thom Yorke of Radiohead.
-
Neighborhood – Japan
The neighborhood is a Japanese streetwear brand started in 1994 by Shinsuke Takizawa. The brand is famous for its punk-inspired designs, which feature bold graphics and slogans. The neighborhood has collaborated with brands like Adidas and Converse.
-
ACRONYM – Germany and Hong Kong
ACRONYM is a streetwear brand founded in Germany in 1994 but is now based in Hong Kong. The brand is popular for its technical outerwear, which features innovative fabrics and design details. ACRONYM has collaborated with brands like Nike and Stone Island.
-
99%IS – South Korea
99%IS is a South Korean streetwear brand launched in 2008 by Bajowoo. The brand is popular for its punk-inspired designs, which often feature leather and metal details. 99%IS has collaborated with brands like Nike and Converse.
-
Ambush – Japan
Ambush is a Japanese streetwear brand founded in 2008 by Yoon Ahn and Verbal. The brand is famous for its bold jewelry designs, which often feature oversized chains and charms. Ambush has collaborated with brands like Nike and Bvlgari.
-
CLOT – Hong Kong
CLOT is a Hong Kong-based streetwear brand founded by Edison Chen and Kevin Poon. The brand is famous for its fusion of Eastern and Western design elements, as well as its collaborations with brands like Nike and Converse.
-
Human Made – Japan
Human Made is a Japanese streetwear brand that is famous for its retro-inspired designs, which often feature graphics and slogans inspired by American pop culture. Human Made has collaborated with brands like Adidas and KFC.
Characteristics of Asian Streetwear Fashion
Asian streetwear fashion has gained popularity worldwide for its unique blend of traditional cultural motifs and contemporary street style. The following are some of the key characteristics of Asian streetwear fashion:
- High-quality materials: Many Asian streetwear brands place a strong emphasis on high-quality materials and craftsmanship. This can include the use of premium fabrics like Japanese selvage denim, high-quality leather, and technical textiles.
- Avant-garde designs: Asian streetwear fashion often features innovative designs and avant-garde silhouettes. Brands like Comme des Garcons, Undercover, and Issey Miyake are famous for their experimental designs that push the boundaries of traditional fashion.
- Traditional cultural motifs: Many Asian streetwear brands draw inspiration from traditional cultural motifs and iconography. This can include traditional Japanese patterns like sakura (cherry blossom) and koi fish, as well as Chinese calligraphy and Korean hanbok-inspired designs.
- Collaborations with other brands and artists: Asian streetwear brands often collaborate with other brands and artists to create limited-edition collections. This can include partnerships with major fashion labels, as well as collaborations with up-and-coming artists and designers.
- Attention to detail: Asian streetwear fashion is often characterized by its attention to detail, with brands placing a strong emphasis on quality construction and finishing. This can include hidden pockets, unique stitching, and other small details that set the clothing apart.
- Emphasis on functionality: Many Asian streetwear brands focus on functionality and practicality, with designs that are well-suited for everyday wear. This can include features like water-resistant fabrics, adjustable straps, and pockets designed for specific purposes.
- Streetwear meets luxury: Many Asian streetwear brands combine elements of streetwear with luxury fashion, creating a unique blend of high-end and casual styles. Brands like Fear of God and Off-White have gained popularity for their mix of high-end materials and streetwear-inspired designs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is streetwear fashion?
Streetwear fashion is a style of clothing that originated from youth culture in the 1980s and 1990s. It is often associated with skateboard and hip-hop culture and features bold graphics, bright colors, and oversized silhouettes.
Q: What are some key characteristics of Asian streetwear brands?
Asian streetwear brands often focus on high-quality materials and craftsmanship, as well as avant-garde designs and innovative collaborations with other brands and artists. Many Asian streetwear brands also draw inspiration from traditional cultural motifs and iconography.
Q: Are Asian streetwear brands popular worldwide?
Yes, many Asian streetwear brands have gained popularity and recognition worldwide. Brands like A Bathing Ape, Supreme, and Visvim have a huge global following and have collaborated with some of the biggest names in fashion and music.
Q: What is the price range for Asian streetwear brands?
The price range for Asian streetwear brands can vary widely, depending on the brand and the item of clothing. Some brands, like BAPE and Supreme, are famous for their high prices, while others, like Human Made and Neighborhood, offer more affordable options.
