So unless you’re living in a weird, technology forbidden, landlocked Amish community, you’ve probably heard the term “Hipster”.  Being from Chicago, a hipster was anyone who lived on the North Side, rode a bicycle, loved indie rock and was into obscure graffiti artists.  Since moving to California, I’ve broadened my spectrum of accepted Hipster definitions.

For now, I classify the hipster style (with help from my hipster influences) with a person who wears what they want, regardless of it should be worn, and somehow makes it work.  Whether that’s because of their personality, confidence or the fact that it just goes, it works.

As much as people hate on how they act, dress, and sometimes smell (I said it) there’s something that’s appealing enough about a hipster that makes you want to dress like one. I think its possible to take elements of the hipster look and apply it to your style without venturing into poser territory. I’ll stick to two “sub-hipster-types” since its summer and telling you to put on flannels and beanies is pretty seasonally off. So grow out your weird patchy beard…  cuz here we go. Feel free to join in ladies.

The “Festival Hippie” Hipster- To all my barefoot, tree blowing, Coachella attending wannabes, this section is for you.  Hippie style is about wearing whatever the hell you want regardless of if it goes or matches.  What also seems to be pretty cool is letting your clothes hang however they want to and letting that be that.  Your clothes have to be non-restricting, loose and light.  Patterns can clash. Accessories don’t have to make sense. So if you’re feeling the Aztec tribal shirt with the plaid shorts and the derby hat, go for it. This would be how I see this working for people who are willing to commit without going all the way there…

The “I effortlessly come off weirder yet cooler than you” Hipster-  I didn’t condense the title for two reasons: it’s my post and  secondly, we all know of at least 3 people who fall into this category. That person who when you’re standing next to them you kind of wish they’d not gone for the animal sweater, but somehow it works for them. That person.  Honestly there are no strict rules for this style, but again the thought is don’t take yourself too seriously.  Be quirky, make a statement, be weird, but make sure the outfit works all-together. For this, I’d say maybe don’t be so random and hippie-ish, but at the same time communicate that style-wise, you’re pretty carefree.  I think cool hats, patterned shorts, distressed oxfords, and circular glasses can all help you get the look.

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So friends, that was your crash course into hipster summer style influences.  Please note that this is my opinion, so if there’s someone who disagrees with me, let them know I don’t care, but I just wanted to put it out there that the opinion could be out there. At the basis of this style genre is the notion that you really wear what makes you feel good and you don’t really have to think too much about it.  So I say don’t over think it, and my personal preference would to be for you to keep your shoes on. Personal gripe, I know, but I just have never been a fan.

Posted By: O.M.

@Omarimcneil

Cult.ivate