Luxury street fashion is gradually merging with outdoor performance clothing. Although collaborations in the fashion industry are quite prevalent, the unexpected blend of sophisticated luxury and outdoor functionality has piqued the interest of many fashionistas all over the world. With fashion continuously evolving through contemporary lifestyles, the demand for practicality has reached different fashion subgenres.
This phenomenon has gradually made luxury street fashion lean towards a more practical concept. In recent years, many high-end retail companies have expanded their collections to keep up with the rising demand for high-tech performance outdoor gear and apparel. Though it might sound ridiculous in the past, today it’s not uncommon to find collaborations between luxury brands and renowned outdoor gear and apparel companies.
High-Tech Clothing Defined
Many renowned outdoor clothing brands have been at the forefront of high-tech fabric technology throughout the years. This is also the reason why many luxury street fashion brands chose to collaborate with the big names in the outerwear industry. They continuously strive to develop high-tech materials that can perform even in the toughest conditions.
These luxury outdoor pieces are durable enough for extreme outdoor excursions and fashionable enough for a night out in the city. High-tech apparel can be made from a wide range of materials. Gore-Tex is one of the most reliable and sought-after materials in the market today.
Though it was invented in 1969, Gore-Tex has gone through a series of product modifications and enhancements throughout the years. The most recent versions of the material are known to be 100% waterproof, windproof, and lightweight yet highly durable even in the harshest weather conditions. It’s also incredibly breathable which gives users versatility in terms of applications.
Outdoor Luxury Street Fashion and Streetwear Subgenres
Since streetwear thrives on exclusivity and scarcity marketing, streetwear enthusiasts are lining up for the latest collections of limited-edition outerwear. Different streetwear subgenres are incorporating outdoor luxury street fashion in their everyday outfits.
Gorpcore and Techwear are two fashion categories that are heavily influenced by high-tech apparel. Gorpcore incorporates more of a baggier and bulkier type of aesthetic. Most people who are fans of this streetwear subgenre incorporate a layering system that is often emphasized by insulated and Down jackets.
Gorpcore fans also like wearing outerwear pieces that are in bold or bright colors. They also prefer accentuating the overall look with outdoor gear and apparel like utility backpacks and beanies. Outdoor luxury street fashion for Gorpcore enthusiasts has become somewhat of a lifestyle. A perfect blend of high-end couture and outdoor functionality.
Techwear on the other hand centers on a more futuristic, avant-garde type of aesthetic. Unlike the bold and bright colorways of Gorpcore, Techwear incorporates monochromatic or neutral palettes in different outfits. Instead of big and bulky, Techwear enthusiasts prefer a more symmetrical approach in terms of clothing structure.
Most luxury street fashion brands have created collections that are exclusively for Techwear. These outdoor pieces typically feature larger pockets, utility straps, and zippers. Techwear enthusiasts also incorporate unconventional street accessories which can include gas masks, gloves, knee pads, and other accessories that you would most likely see in mountain expeditions.
