MAGIC is a huge convention, way bigger than only the streetwear sections (there are actually 2 streetwear sections…..streetwear and ‘PREMIUM’ streetwear……). Wandering around I saw men’s formal wear, every kind of hat, women’s apparel, manufacturers, corporate licenses and more.
Coming back to my neck of the woods (2nd floor, South Hall, non-premium), I was always interested to see what newer or less established brands are doing.
The thing that carried over to me the most, however, was character.
The fashion industry is known to maybe have some shallowness and egocentricity throughout, but generally the streetwear side of things is a lot more friendly and laid back. Don’t get me wrong, it is quite obvious many of the populace of our little niche scene were not the cool kids in high school and are SERIOUSLY overcompensating for being the Screech’s of their formative years. But many of even the well-established brands are cool, down to earth people (as evident by the number of adam bomb stickers in my possession).
Some even go beyond the fresh aesthetic and combine meaning and passion in what they do. Take Hoodman. Reading the name, I initially just walked by. But upon speaking with Eddie and crew, it became quite evident that Hoodman packs a lot of punch in their designs and ideology.
The tee Eddie is wearing is inspired by The Bluest Eye. I was like, hold up….this $%#$ reads!! He’s also got his Obama ’08 shirt, and regardless of your political ideology, you’ve got to respect the passion behind Hoodman’s endeavors. Cop their stuff from Digital Gravel and local boutiques who know what’s up.
