Dystopian streets is a movement influenced by urban deterioration and the aesthetics of dystopian futures shown in science fiction, post-apocalyptic movies. This aesthetic reflects a society molded by chaos, resilience, and the urge to survive by fusing practicality with edgy, protective shapes. It’s street-wear with an industrial look and high-tech materials reinterpreted for a dystopian future.
Using organic acid bleach washes on light to mid-weights weighing 7 to 12 ounces with twill structures, one may create a dystopian dark with acid and stone-wash effects. Incorporate protective textural characteristics using engineered structures, such as crinkle pleat applications, pleated and cushioned panels, and scales that resemble armadillos.
Use on certain locations, such as shirt yokes or back pockets, for a more commercial use, or incorporate into #MatchingSets and #DenimOnDenim for a statement effect.
#NoughtiesNostalgia and darker moods sweeping fashion with apocalyptic overtones, fueled by the current poly-crisis, have driven Y2K wash and weave trends. The return of aggressive #Y2K-inspired slub denim. Research raindrop slubs with varying warp yarn thicknesses to create character, which is crucial for brands targeting the youth market.
Following the viral success of Diesel’s belt skirt, Jaded London (UK) is releasing a micro miniskirt constructed from 2XL #StatementBelts. Although the miniskirt is associated with the #Y2K era, the styling also taps into our #DystopianFutures trend. The skirt comes in faded denim and distressed leather, forming part of a #MatchingSet with a super-cropped buckle jacket
Fresh startups that are overturning the industry and pushing the limits of the category have invaded the denim industry in recent years. The new guard is Mexico City-based Tiempos, their most recent denim collection uses the #Y2K aesthetics for which it is famous, combining them with references to #DystopianFutures to create contoured paneled pieces, manipulated surfaces, and #DistressedTexture, all of which are made from Upcycled denim and industrial waste.
In WGSN Need to Know A/W 23/24 catwalk report, influencers @marvinmarioo, @goodlynee, and @futurist__ analyse the #DystopianFutures trend. The ensembles use a palette of fading #GetYourGreens and include generous proportions and utilitarian elements inspired by #Utility. Use these ensembles to inject freshness into the young market’s utilitarian trend.
