Streetwear isn’t just clothing. It’s a way of life. Originally the threads of subcultures – think skaters, surfers and hip-hop creators – in 2024, the fabric of streetwear has changed. These days, streetwear is a force to be reckoned with. What started out on the street – from the hip-hop pioneers of ‘80s New York to the UK’s sports culture, all the way to the early ‘00s, the streetwear scene has become an unstoppable global fashion voice.

A host of designers – think Virgil Abloh, Heron Preston and Nigo – have transformed streetwear, bringing it into the mainstream and infiltrating the world of luxury fashion with ground-breaking designs and a forward-thinking approach to fashion. Streetwear has been in a constant state of flux since the ‘70s and ‘80s, and in 2024, we’re entering a new age.

Put simply, today, streetwear refers to anything that takes on the mood of the street. From visionary designers to cult styles, streetwear continues to be one of the most powerful forms of fashion. Whether you’re a diehard C.P. Company fan; loyal to British streetwear heavyweights like Cole Buxton and Represent; or pledge your allegiance to Scandi favourite Acne Studios, these are the key streetwear pieces to know this season.

Streetwear OGs and Italian sportswear giants C.P. Company delivered big time for SS24. The brand’s iconic designs and innovative techniques and materials are unparalleled. This spring, cargo trousers and classic khaki are back, and C.P. Company have smashed the assignment. Team their cult ‘Goggle cargo pants’ and ‘Goggle jacket’ together for a head-to-toe C.P. Company look that’ll turn your mates green with envy.

Varsity jackets have serious streetwear pedigree. A calling card of American style, they made their way from the country’s Ivy League schools (where they were sported by the colleges’ elite student athletes) and onto the backs of hip-hop stars like Run DMC who cemented the jacket’s place in the streetwear hall of fame. Now, Axel Arigato have put their Swedish streetwear powerhouse mark on the staple jacket. Team with a hoodie, jeans and the brand’s signature white Axel Arigato ‘Area Lo’ trainers for an easy weekend look.

It’s official. All the cool kids are wearing knits. The more brightly coloured/ironic/off-beat the better. Introducing British luxury sportswear brand Cole Buxton and their signature Pepto-Bismol-pink jumper. How to wear it? Contrast the jumper’s pinky softness with the brand’s leather trousers and oversized tote. The premium alpaca knit adds texture to an otherwise utilitarian look. Layer under a Cole Buxton shearling jacket and team with UGG boots (yes, UGG boots are back). With minimal branding and a community-minded spirit, Cole Buxton is the UK-based streetwear brand for those in the know who appreciate quality sportswear and understated luxury.

In the true spirit of streetwear’s DIY roots, British luxury brand Represent started life as founder George Heaton’s college project. Today? They’re one of the most-hyped labels on the scene. So: what is the key piece to take into SS24? The brand’s instantly iconic bomber jacket of course. The ‘Horizons’ Bomber is garment dyed and finished with a distinctive ‘Icarus’ embroidery, merging the flight jacket silhouette with fine detailing and manufacturing techniques. Layer over a statement shirt and finish with the brand’s cult ‘Virtus’ sneakers. Major.

Other than your shoes, only one other item of clothing so succinctly communicates your style status to other streetwear afficionados, and that’s your jacket. Status coats signal to everyone else that, like them, you ‘know’. From bombers and puffers to trench coats and down jackets, they’re a firm non-negotiable. For spring, layer Acne Studios’ playfully branded pink windbreaker over multiple knits (because why wear one jumper when you can wear two?) and a pair of the label’s ‘Prudento’ cargo trousers. Finish with some slick leather loafers and the Acne Studios ‘Musubi’ bag for an outfit that is equal parts fun, refined and subversive.