Streetwear isn’t simply large-sized hooded sweatshirts or t-shirts with graphics; it represents a culture, an expression and for some a lifestyle. But, not every streetwear brand has similar quality. A high-quality streetwear piece is identifiable by factors such as design; craftsmanship; fabric and attention to detail and/or other factors about the item itself. An investment in a piece of streetwear is not just about the appearance of that piece; It includes all of the durability, comfort, and long-term value you receive as a result of that piece. Understanding how to identify quality in streetwear will save you from spending your hard-earned money on items that will lose their appearance, shape and/or size after a few washes.
Fabric is the First Thing to Consider
The first and most important aspect of evaluating a streetwear item is its fabric. Many premium streetwear companies use High-Quality GSM cotton (grams per square meter), which gives their garments a thicker weight and feel; therefore making them more durable than low GSM cotton. When you touch the item, it should feel soft but well-structured instead of thin, flimsy, or cheap. When choosing hoodies and/or sweatshirts a fleece lining should be present to provide extra insulation and comfort to the wearer. If a garment is made with synthetic materials and they are not necessary for the garment to be designed properly, you should avoid purchasing that garment. Natural fabrics (such as cotton) will provide you with longevity in your streetwear and assist in maintaining their original appearance.
Stitching and Construction Looking at how High-Quality clothing is made is one of the best way to determine if a piece of clothing is high quality. Take a look at the seams of a piece of clothing that you want to purchase, are those seams straight, tight and are they evenly spaced. Loose threads, uneven stitching or weak stitching all are indications that the garment has been poorly constructed. High-quality manufacturers often reinforce stitching at the places on a garment that will experience the most stress (such as on the shoulders and cuffs). In addition, a high-quality manufacturer’s use of double stitching is an indication that the garment is able to withstand wear and tear over an extended period of time.
Fit and Structure
While streetwear is sometimes characterized by its oversized and relaxed fit, there is nothing sloppy about a quality made garment that displays these types of fits. A quality streetwear garment, no matter if it’s oversized or not, will have structure to fit. In terms of how it fits, pay attention to the way the garment falls on your body; does it drape the way it should, or does it drape awkwardly. High-quality streetwear manufacturers spend a great deal of time designing their cuts in order to be comfortable while maintaining a fashionable silhouette. A quality garment will have intentional design elements in the necklines, sleeves and overall ratios of the garment.
Print and Design Quality
Since graphics are such an important aspect of streetwear, the quality of the graphics is just as important. Check to see how the graphics on the streetwear you want to purchase are produced; screen printed, embroidered or heat pressed. Screen printed and embroidered graphics will have longer lifespans than heat pressed.Review the print for quality and longevity. Less expensive printed graphics will often crack, peel, or fade after multiple washes. Run your fingers across the image if it feels cheap, has the consistency of a plastic-like substance, or is very flimsy, then your item is likely to damage or break down fairly easily. Quality prints will feel consistent, clean, and will not show visible separation or lack of integration between fabric and print design.
Details, Finishing Touches, and Fabric Construction
Price vs Value
The details of a piece can put it above average streetwear and make it more premium quality. The thread type, labels/tags, hang tags, adhesive, and packaging all contribute to the quality of a garment. Check to see if there’s a company br…
High-quality streetwear is rarely the cheapest option, but expensive doesn’t always mean better. The key is to evaluate value for money. A slightly more expensive hoodie that lasts for years is a better investment than a cheap one that wears out quickly. Think of it as cost per wear the more you use it, the more worthwhile it becomes.
Final Pre-purchase Checklist
Prior to purchasing streetwear apparel, make sure to run through this quick checklist:
Is the material thick and durable to the touch?
Are there any loose stitches; if there are, they will not hold up in everyday use?
Are there intentional shapes and lines in the garment, or is it an afterthought-style garment?
Did you look for good quality print or embroidery on the garment?
Are the finer details of the garment of superior quality?
In Closing
Understanding and being aware of what you are looking for will assist you greatly when looking for streetwear that has a high-quality construction. Once you have acquired this knowledge, you will be able to see through the hype and differentiate between true quality from programs that hype their products as High-Quality. Investing in high-quality pieces, that are constructed well, will allow you to build a wardrobe that will continue to be fashionable and reliable for a long time regardless of the change in trends and the best option is hussisoprts. Streetwear is not only about the image you portray with what you wear, but also how you feel when you wear it; and quality is a huge factor in both aspects.