In the vibrant heart of Los Angeles, streetwear has evolved into a dynamic blend of expressive culture and innovative design. Defined by bold graphics, playful silhouettes, and a penchant for comfort, these brands harness an urban aesthetic that thrives off the city's eclectic energy. From relaxed fits tailored for everyday adventures to statement pieces that scream individuality, the right streetwear can elevate any look, whether for a casual outing or a night on the town.
Brands like Pacsun and Golf Wang exemplify this ethos, offering collections that not only reflect the spirit of LA but also resonate with a diverse audience. Chinatown Market and The Hundreds further contribute to this scene with their unique craftsmanship and vibrant designs, making them staples in the streetwear community. Join us as we explore the full list of the best LA streetwear brands, each a testament to the art of style and the culture of creativity that defines this iconic city.
Chinatown Market is a streetwear brand known for its playful and colorful graphics, often incorporating references to pop culture, basketball, and New York City.
The Hundreds is a LA-founded streetwear brand known for its streetwear-inspired clothing, which draw inspiration from Californian culture, including punk, skate, and surf. Expect bold graphics, bright colors, and embroidery, as well as its collaborations with other brands and artists.
Based out of LA, Brain Dead is a creative collective and clothing brand that has taken the streetwear world by storm. With their iconic brain logo and graphic-led approach, they've formed a movement that takes cues from post-punk, underground comics and skateboarding.
Banks Journal is an apparel company inspired by coastal living and design. Their founders' Japanese-Australian heritage is reflected in the style they bring forth. From surf to city, from traditional to contemporary, the juxtaposition and blend are what make this brand unique.
General Admission, founded by Gavin Dogan and Dooma Fahrenfort in 2015, is a Los Angeles-based brand that creates simple, elegant designs for a more inspired lifestyle. They are obsessed with minimalism and the fine details of their garments, which are made to be worn loose and casual. Their meticulous craftsmanship can be seen extended into their one-of-a-kind handmade home decor items.
Rick Owens is known for his avant-garde, edgy style. His designs often feature unconventional cuts and draping, and he is known for incorporating unusual materials and textures into his collections. Owens is particularly known for his dark, gothic aesthetic, and his clothing often has a dramatic and sculptural quality to it. Discover more brands like Rick Owens here.
Fear of God is an American streetwear brand known for its luxurious, high-end take on casual clothing. It quickly gained a reputation for elevated takes on classic streetwear staples.
Illegal Civilization is a skateboard-inspired clothing brand known for their bold graphics and colors.
Ripndip is a skate-inspired clothing brand known for their extensive line of playful designs featuring a cat named Lord Nermal.
We hope this roundup of LA streetwear brands helped you discover something new.
LA streetwear brands are characterized by their unique blend of urban culture, art, and the laid-back lifestyle prevalent in Los Angeles. They often incorporate bold graphics, vibrant colors, and innovative designs. Influences from skate and surf culture, celebrity endorsements, and a focus on individuality are hallmarks of these brands. Sustainability and ethical practices are becoming increasingly significant within the LA streetwear scene as well.
Some of the most iconic LA streetwear brands include Supreme, Stussy, Off-White, Fear of God, and A Bathing Ape (BAPE). Each of these brands has made a significant impact not only in Los Angeles but also on the global streetwear market. Fear of God, in particular, has brought luxury streetwear to the forefront, while Stussy is credited with launching the streetwear movement in the ’80s.
LA streetwear brands often reflect the city's diverse culture and lifestyle, heavily influenced by its music, art, and skateboarding scenes. Unlike New York, which tends to emphasize a tougher urban aesthetic, LA streetwear is often more relaxed and casual. The sunny climate also influences fabric choices and styles, favoring lighter materials and open styles. Additionally, LA's connection to the entertainment industry results in a higher visibility from celebrities, impacting trends and brand popularity.
Celebrity culture plays a crucial role in shaping LA streetwear. High-profile endorsements and collaborations can propel brands into the spotlight almost overnight. Celebrities often set trends by wearing particular pieces, influencing their vast fan bases to emulate their style. Collaborations between streetwear brands and celebrities or influencers, like Kanye West’s Yeezy line or Travis Scott’s partnership with Nike, further blur the lines between fashion and pop culture, fueling brand awareness and desirability.
The affordability of LA streetwear varies widely. While some brands offer reasonably priced items, many are considered high-end or luxury, reflecting their unique designs and quality. Limited releases and collaborations can lead to high resale values, sometimes making popular items inaccessible to the average consumer. Emerging brands often provide more affordable options, but niche appeal and demand can still drive prices up. These questions and answers illustrate key elements surrounding LA streetwear brands, showcasing their cultural significance and market dynamics.
