Estilo Chicano: the bastard child of a cultural clash, the unlikely blend of Mexican and American influences that conquered hearts from the West Coast to Japan, that you might have never heard of but sure as hell got inspired from.
As Chicano culture nears its 100th anniversary, let’s pay homage to the icons and get to know them better - finding style inspiration along the way.
As Chicano culture nears its 100th anniversary, let’s pay homage to the icons and get to know them better - finding style inspiration along the way.
From the book East Side Stories: Gang Life in East L.A. by Joseph Rodriguez: baggy Dickies pants, long socks, Chucks or Nike Cortez are all staples of the Chicano fit.
Chicano style embodies the struggle of Mexican immigrants in the US: their search for a better life, social justice and equal opportunities. There are great articles out there on the genesis of this culture and its looks, so for this piece we’ll focus on some of the elements that Chicanos introduced or reappropriated, turning them into global classics.
DICKIES
The iconic American workwear brand became an essential part of Chicano fashion in the mid-20th century. Originally designed for laborers and blue-collar workers, Dickies pants, especially the baggy, straight-leg style, were adopted by Chicanos as a uniform of the streets, providing both comfort and style.
LONG SOCKS & LOW TOPS
The signature long socks, white or with bold stripes, and low-top sneakers such as Nike Cortez or Converse Chuck Taylor pairing is a killer combo that exudes effortless cool. The white sock makes the shoes stand out and blends in with the almost ubiquitous white tee - subtle but eye-catching.
Legendary skater Sammy Baca aka @breezebloccloc, showing ‘em how it’s done with his two sons.
RAW DENIM
Raw denim (denim that hasn’t been pre-washed or treated) has long been a staple of Chicano fashion, revered for its durability, unique aging process, and rugged appearance. Chicanos used to starch-press their denim to make a pleat reminiscent of that found in suit pants - an elegant touch that turns an everyday piece of clothing in a unique fashion statement.
@_elodiaaa flawlessly pairing starch-pressed denim, white top and flannel shirt next to a gorgeous low-rider - another icon of the culture.
@_elodiaaa flawlessly pairing starch-pressed denim, white top and flannel shirt next to a gorgeous low-rider - another icon of the culture.
FLANNEL
Pendleton flannels, at the time most popular among cowboys and ranchers, were integrated in the Chicano outfit as part of the readaptation of American workwear. Rigorously worn oversized, flannels are paired with baggy jeans or chinos, usually over a plain white tee.
@mr.chicano_ sporting the most authentic Chicano look, with high-waisted “zoot suit” pants, white tee, and the trusted flannel shirt on his shoulder.
GOTHIC LETTERING
Typefaces such as Blackletter existed long before the rise of Chicano culture, but Chicanos made them their own through graffiti, tattooing and fashion. Gothic lettering usually takes center stage in the outfit - take for example the famous Compton baseball cap sported by Eazy-E, or Kanye West’s ever-popular Life of Pablo merch.
The quiet influence of Chicano culture in fashion trends doesn’t seem to vanish, and we can only expect to see more as the concept is brought forward and evolved by streetwear brands and designers.
As you look around, you’ll start to see this influence more and more, and perhaps even make it your own by adopting some of the Chicanos’ wisdom.
Now you know!
Fra
As you look around, you’ll start to see this influence more and more, and perhaps even make it your own by adopting some of the Chicanos’ wisdom.
Now you know!
Fra