Skateboarding and Fashion?

Fashion is an ever-changing whirlwind of trends, somewhat working harmoniously to produce diversity and variability in a rather cluttered industry. One "trend" that has always fascinated me is the rise of skateboarding brands in fashion, predominantly Supreme and Palace. My opinion of these brands is divided and I still struggle to formulate a well reasoned stance. 

On the one hand, many may believe that unless you are a dedicated member of the skateboarding "society", you have no right to dress in these brands which are well-established in the skating community. Another aspect that angers me about skating brands is their undeniable focus on men. Recently, there has certainly been a rise in female skaters, mainly due to the empowering work of the Skate Kitchen (more on that later).

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However, it appears as though these male-centric brands have perhaps disregarded this surge of female presence in this sport, hindering women to have the ability to buy skateboarding-appropriate clothes. I know. My opinion is somewhat dogmatic especially as I don't skateboard (but hope to start soon). But, perhaps my outsider's perspective is refreshing and relevant. 

To conclude my negative section of this post, my final dispute regards the Louis Vuitton X Supreme collaboration. The whole thing irritates me, especially the (what I believe to be) ghastly combination of the Louis Vuitton monogram canvas (in red) and the splattering of the Supreme logo. I still struggle to accept the combination of a well-established and truly classic fashion brand with a fairly modern and not as luxurious skateboarding brand. 

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Yet, I continue to believe that skateboarders are the coolest people on earth. The whole aura surrounding their slouched and relaxed outfits, their lack of fear, and their talent makes them true icons. One person that I think has allowed skateboarding for women to be more popular is model and avid skater Natalie Westling. Her collaboration with Vans proved to be popular and successful, encouraging more girls to take up skateboarding. Another major advancement for women in skateboarding is the Skate Kitchen (a "skate collective" of female skaters).

Not only do these women skate, but they are also hugely fashion conscious, projecting a stylish and admirable image. Although the well established skating brands feature little or no flexibility for women, I truly believe that skateboarding has undergone somewhat of a revolution, promoting gender equality in a "masculine" sport. thanks for reading ;)