Modern street art Meets Fashion
Critics dismiss them as vandalism. Defenders say they are raw and authentic modern street art. From simple scribbles to elaborate paintings, graffiti has become a part of the urban scene.
Graffiti also found its way into the fashion industry. Graffiti-inspired tees and accessories began popping up in the ‘80s and became popular as urban streetwear. Even luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Balenciaga and others jumped into the trend.
What is Considered a Graffiti Style?
Graffiti artists come from diverse backgrounds and influences. It follows that they use different mediums, styles, and have varied motivation in creating their work. Thus, no one style that defines what graffiti should be.
That said, several elements and themes are strongly associated with graffiti. Those familiar with its history say it all began with stylised personal signatures or tags. Later on other styles like bubble letters, and blocky letters came about.
More styles and techniques evolved like the stencil, interlocked letters and decorative elements, sharp and angular letters and elements, abstract shapes, cartoons, and more.
Some graffiti artists try to convey a political or social message through their work while others are just doing them for creative expression.
These themes, styles, and elements were carried over when graffiti spilled over to the fashion sphere.
Why People Love the Trend
The graffiti style has established its place in the fashion world especially now that major fashion brands have launched their graffiti-inspired collections.
This fashion trend mostly appeals to young people. This is most likely because graffiti is associated with free expression, creativity and nonconformity. Most graffiti-influenced clothes and accessories are also casual and comfortable which are perfect for everyday use.
Kids on the other hand may be drawn to graffiti designs that are fun, colourful, and simple.
