streetwear

noun

street·​wear ˈstrēt-ˌwer How to pronounce streetwear (audio)
: a style of fashionable casual clothing that features items such as sneakers, hoodies, T-shirts, and baggy pants and that emerged from and is inspired by a blend of urban subcultures (such as hip-hop, skateboarding, and surfing)
In recent years, streetwear has blurred the lines between casual wear and luxury fashion. … From gym sessions to coffee runs, or even a night out layered under a jacket , these hoodies work everywhere.Gerrita Bikker
Originally rooted in the subcultures of skate and surf in California, streetwear has transcended its niche origins to become a dominant force in the global fashion industry.Usman Ghani
often used before another noun
a streetwear brand
streetwear designers

Examples of streetwear in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In the 2000s, the street transformed into a nexus of youth culture, with streetwear shops and restaurants like Animal. Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 14 May 2026 The streetwear brand Hurley, which is known for surf and swim apparel, has released a capsule collection inspired by Keith Haring, one of the most recognizable and oft-licensed American artists. Leigh Anne Miller, ARTnews.com, 12 May 2026 Recent Crocs projects have ranged from streetwear and music-related drops to Simone Rocha’s embellished designer versions of the brand’s comfort-first silhouettes. Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 8 May 2026 Russ, who designs custom streetwear apparel, is behind the Denaro Puro brand. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 6 May 2026 Unlike coastal markets, the Midwest lacked a clear streetwear identity. Kansas City Star, 4 May 2026 This simple, timeless piece flaunts a higher neckline and snug fit that falls to the hips, and it can be worn to the gym, or paired with capris, flowy shorts, or the Adidas Originals Essentials 3-stripes Woven Parachute Pants for a streetwear approach to your travel style. Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 27 Apr. 2026 Black cargos are a streetwear-loving girl’s best friend. Kelsey Stiegman, Glamour, 27 Apr. 2026 For a second game in a row, the Spurs mixed styles with streetwear, workwear, and tailored looks. Raul Trey Lopez, San Antonio Express-News, 24 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

street entry 1 + wear entry 2 (sense 2a)

First Known Use

1993, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of streetwear was in 1993

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Streetwear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/streetwear. Accessed 19 May. 2026.

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