Hipster clothing in China represents a vibrant fusion of traditional aesthetics and contemporary trends. As urban centers evolve, so does the fashion landscape, reflecting a unique cultural identity. This guide delves into the significance of hipster fashion, showcasing how it embodies individuality and creativity in a rapidly changing society.
Readers can expect to explore the origins of hipster culture in China, its key influences, and the styles that define it. From streetwear to vintage finds, we will highlight essential elements that contribute to this eclectic fashion scene. Additionally, we will discuss how local designers and global brands are shaping the hipster aesthetic, making it a dynamic part of modern Chinese culture.
By the end of this guide, you will gain insights into the trends, styles, and cultural implications of hipster clothing in China. Whether you are a fashion enthusiast or simply curious about this phenomenon, you will discover the rich tapestry of influences that make up this unique fashion movement.
4 Chinese Streetwear Brands to Check Out in Shanghai
By putting a Chinese twist on streetwear, these brands have attracted a growing fanbase and earned nods from international tastemakers. Over the past decade, the Chinese streetwear scene has blossomed into its own, with local designers starting labels to bring their vision to a scene once dominated by overseas brands. Consumers are increasingly eager to fill their wardrobes with pieces from local labels.
The roots of street fashion in China and Shanghai run at least two decades deep. According to Randomevent founder and fashion expert Younker Hong, “As I recall, Flystreetwear was the earliest local streetwear brand, founded right around the turn of the millennium.” More recently, trends like guochao have made made-in-China cool again, leading to a surge in interest in local brands. Here’s a guide to four (and a half!) of China’s most interesting streetwear brands, all of whose clothing you can pick up in brick-and-mortar stores around Shanghai.
Randomevent and Melting Sadness
Founded by Younker Hong in 2012, Randomevent is a Shanghai-based streetwear brand that has gained significant renown both in China and abroad. The brand name alludes to “an anticipation for the random events in life,” reflected in the effortless look that ties the brand together. Randomevent has collaborated with established fashion staples such as New Balance and Reebok.
Running parallel to Randomevent is Melting Sadness, created by Zhang Quan in 2016. This brand is known for its whimsical designs and characters, the most iconic being Karoro, a boy in a rabbit costume. Melting Sadness has played with a cute and childish sense of fun, experimenting with styles that employ cartoon-like motifs and soft pastels.
You can find Randomevent and Melting Sadness at:
– Randomevent and Slab Town Space
C Park Haisu, 618-666 Zhaohua Rd., Changning District, Shanghai
– Randomevent + Melting Sadness Store
1385 Yuyuan Rd., Changning District, Shanghai
Monday Sleeping Club
Monday Sleeping Club, aka 周一睡觉俱乐部, is a boutique street fashion brand that leans into the luxury side of “lying flat” culture. This brand opened its doors in 2022 and offers a unique shopping experience that feels like dropping into the soft embrace of a plush pillow. The designs employ a palette of muted pastels that evoke dreamy nostalgia.
The brand director, Zhao Mo, curates designs that play with a 90s computer room aesthetic, featuring not-quite-correct versions of classic tech logos. You can find Monday Sleeping Club at:
– Monday Sleeping Club Flagship Store
72 Yanqing Rd., Xuhui District, Shanghai
Crying Center
Crying Center, or China Crying Center (CCC), was founded in 2017 by a collective of designers. The brand aims to give full expression to each member’s unique vision while obscuring the actual faces behind each release. CCC appeals to both China’s hipster-like yabi subculture and more mainstream fashion-minded youth.
Crying Center’s aesthetic runs the gamut from workwear to cyberpunk styles, incorporating elements of anime and children’s artwork. Their plain logo tees enjoy wider popularity and are commonly seen on the streets of Shanghai. You can find CCC at:
– China Crying Center
TX Huaihai Fl. 4, 523 Huaihai Middle Rd., Xuhui District, Shanghai
GoodBai Studio
GoodBai Studio is a boutique street lifestyle fashion label founded in 2021 by Bai Jingting. The brand draws inspiration from a passion for nature and life, incorporating elements of vintage preppy styles and cartoonish designs. GoodBai has gained recognition for its sincere attempt to break into the fashion space.
The brand has also collaborated with KFC, showcasing its unique approach to fashion. You can find GoodBai at:
– GoodBai Store
92 Yanqing Rd., Xuhui District, Shanghai
– GoodBai Cafe
104 Yanqing Rd., Xuhui District, Shanghai
Comparison of Technical Features
| Feature | Randomevent & Melting Sadness | Monday Sleeping Club | Crying Center | GoodBai Studio |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year Established | 2012 | 2022 | 2017 | 2021 |
| Design Aesthetic | Whimsical, 90s pop culture | Nostalgic, playful | Eclectic, anti-design | Vintage, cartoonish |
| Target Audience | Youth, streetwear enthusiasts | Luxury seekers | Hipsters, youth | Fashion-forward individuals |
| Notable Collaborations | New Balance, Reebok | Tech logos | Various designers | KFC |
Types of Streetwear Brands
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Luxury Streetwear | High-end brands that incorporate luxury elements into street fashion. |
| Eclectic Streetwear | Brands that mix various styles and influences, often with a unique twist. |
| Youth-Centric Streetwear | Brands targeting younger audiences with trendy and playful designs. |
| Vintage-Inspired | Brands that draw inspiration from past decades, often with nostalgic themes. |
Conclusion
The Chinese streetwear scene is thriving, with brands like Randomevent, Melting Sadness, Monday Sleeping Club, Crying Center, and GoodBai Studio leading the charge. Each brand offers a unique perspective on fashion, blending local culture with global influences. As the demand for local labels continues to grow, these brands are set to make a significant impact on the global fashion landscape.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of guochao in Chinese streetwear?
Guochao refers to the trend of embracing and promoting Chinese culture and products, making local brands more appealing to younger generations.
2. Where can I find these streetwear brands in Shanghai?
You can find these brands in various flagship stores and boutiques across Shanghai, including locations mentioned in this guide.
3. How do these brands differ from Western streetwear?
Chinese streetwear often incorporates traditional cultural elements and local themes, while Western streetwear is more influenced by skate and hip-hop cultures.
4. Are these brands gaining international recognition?
Yes, many Chinese streetwear brands are increasingly recognized on the global stage, thanks to collaborations and participation in international fashion events.
5. What is the target audience for these streetwear brands?
The primary target audience consists of young adults and teens who are influenced by urban culture, music, and fashion trends.