Hipster Style: A Blueprint To Embrace This Eclectic Fashion | FashionBeans

Oh, you don’t even know what hipster style is? Lame. I’m just kidding! When it comes to hipster style, it’s as easy as picturing a Williamsburg loft party circa 2010, at which a sea of plaid-clad, beard-sporting, PBR-sipping twenty-somethings sway to the dulcet tones of Bon Iver.

Or imagine a sun-drenched Los Angeles street in 2015, on which vintage-clad cyclists pedal past a line of hungry brunch-goers waiting for their avocado toast fix. These snapshots encapsulate the rise of the hipster aesthetic, a fashion movement that has left an indelible mark on 21st-century style.

This dive into hipster fashion explores the evolution, key elements, and icons that define it, revealing why this style continues to appeal to those valuing authenticity, creativity, and sustainability.

From the thrift store finds and vintage pieces that form the foundation of the look to the artisanal accessories and grooming choices that complete it, hipster style is a sartorial rebellion against the generic, a nod to the past, and a celebration of the now, all rolled into one. How’s that for cool?

What Is Hipster Style?

Is it fedoras and super skinny scarves? Sometimes, yes. But at its core, hipster fashion is a glorious hodgepodge of past and present, a style that thumbs its nose at cookie-cutter trends and instead opts for a personalized, one-of-a-kind approach.

It’s all about scouring the racks at thrift stores like Buffalo Exchange or Goodwill, unearthing gems at vintage boutiques like Ragstock or Decades, and supporting artisanal makers on Etsy to curate a look that’s as unique as your fingerprint.

This ain’t no one-size-fits-all fashion; it’s a sartorial smorgasbord that pulls from the ’60s bohemian, the ’70s punk, the ’80s indie, and the here-and-now streetwear, all whipped up into one deliciously eclectic look.

The Evolution of the Hipster Aesthetic

Origins and Early Manifestations of Hipster Style (2000s)

Here we go! The early aughts saw the birth of the hipster aesthetic, a style marked by a resolute rejection of the mainstream and a full-throttle embrace of all things vintage, indie, and under-the-radar.

This was the era of raiding grandpa’s closet and mom’s attic, of mixing thrift store scores with modern pieces from Urban Outfitters or American Apparel to create a look that was as singular as it was eclectic. Individuality was the name of the game, and hipsters were determined to stand out in a sea of mass-produced fashion.

Hipster’s Rise to Mainstream Popularity (2010s)

As the 2010s rolled in, the hipster aesthetic started to seep into the mainstream, much to their chagrin, I’m sure. Suddenly, every mall brand from H&M to Forever 21 was hawking their version of hipster chic.

The look became synonymous with craft coffee joints like Stumptown or Blue Bottle, artisanal beer from microbreweries like Dogfish Head or Sierra Nevada, and a penchant for all things locally sourced and organic.

Fashion-wise, plaid shirts from Pendleton, skinny jeans from Levi’s, and beanies from Carhartt became the unofficial uniform of the hipster tribe, a sartorial nod to grunge, boho, and vintage vibes. Let’s not forget thick-rimmed glasses.

Diversification and Global Influence of Hipster Fashion (Late 2010s Onwards)

Where does that leave us now? As the decade wore on, the hipster aesthetic continued to evolve and expand, pulling influences from a kaleidoscope of subcultures and global trends.

Sustainable fashion became a cornerstone of the hipster look, with a focus on ethical manufacturing from brands like Everlane and Patagonia and giving pre-loved clothes a second lease on life.

The style became more inclusive and more fluid, blending streetwear swagger from brands like Supreme with minimalist Scandi cool from labels like Acne Studios. The hipster aesthetic proved itself to be a fashion chameleon, ever-changing yet always anchored in its roots of individuality and a love for the offbeat and the artisanal.

Key Components of Hipster Fashion for Men

Layering with Vintage and Thrift Finds

Layering is the secret sauce of hipster fashion, a way to add depth, texture, and a healthy dose of personal flair to any outfit.

Vintage scores from shops like What Goes Around Comes Around and thrift store gems from Salvation Army or Value Village are mixed and matched with modern pieces, creating a look that’s one part nostalgia, one part cutting-edge cool.

Not only is layering with second-hand finds good for the planet, but it also ensures that no two hipster getups are exactly alike. It’s a win-win.

Denim: Raw and Selvedge

In the hipster fashion bible, denim is gospel and raw and selvedge denim are the holy grail. Jeans from brands like A.P.C., Naked & Famous, or 3sixteen are worshiped for their superior quality and the way they mold to the wearer’s body over time, creating a fit that’s as unique as a fingerprint.

The hipster’s love for raw and selvedge denim is a testament to their appreciation for craftsmanship and authenticity. If you’re gonna do something, do it well.

Footwear: Boots and Sneakers

Hipster footwear runs the gamut from rugged leather boots to vintage-inspired sneakers, each choice speaking volumes about the wearer’s personal style. Boots, like the classic Red Wing Iron Ranger or the Clarks Desert Boot, are valued for their versatility and durability, easily dressed up or down.

On the sneaker front, it’s all about rare finds, artisanal brands like Common Projects or Veja, and retro silhouettes from the likes of Converse or Vans that make a statement.

Outerwear: Statement Jackets and Coats

In the world of hipster fashion, outerwear is the ultimate opportunity to make a statement. From military-inspired parkas from Alpha Industries to timeless pea coats from Schott NYC to badass leather jackets from The Kooples, each choice adds a distinct flavor to the overall look.

And you can’t forget about the ever-present Levi’s trucker jacket, which takes the streets of Brooklyn en masse whenever the weather dips below 60°.

Vintage finds and high-quality, timeless pieces from brands that prioritize craftsmanship are the name of the game, underscoring the hipster’s dedication to individual style and sustainability.

Vintage-inspired Eyewear

Forget contacts; in the world of hipster fashion, four eyes are infinitely cooler than two. Chunky, funky frames in eye-popping colors and bold shapes from brands like Warby Parker or Moscot are the ultimate accessory, equal parts retro intellectual and modern style maven.

These glasses are a nod to the mid-century greats but with a distinctly 21st-century twist. Just make sure they have lenses: I won’t be caught faking poor eyesight ever again.

Artisanal and Crafted Accessories

Here’s where handcrafted items really shine. Leather goods – from belts to wallets to watch straps – are prized for their durability and the way they age with grace, often sourced from small-batch artisans on Etsy or vintage troves.

Jewelry tends to be understated, with a focus on pieces that are handcrafted and tell a story, like the minimalist designs from Miansai or the vintage-inspired creations from Pamela Love.

Hipster Hairstyles & Grooming Trends

Hipster hair is a delicate dance between artfully disheveled and precisely coiffed. It often features longer locks on top with closely cropped sides—a fresh spin on classic cuts of yesteryear.

The Man Bun: The Ultimate Hipster Hairstyle for Guys

You knew we were gonna talk about it! No hairstyle has become quite as synonymous with the hipster aesthetic as the man bun. This stylish updo, sported by the likes of Jared Leto and Harry Styles, involves gathering longer locks into a bun at the crown of the head, often paired with an undercut or shaved sides for added contrast.

The man bun’s popularity can be attributed to its versatility; it’s a practical way to keep hair out of the face while still maintaining a sense of style, easily dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

More Men’s Hipster Hairstyles

The undercut is another top choice for hipster hair, characterized by a longer mop on top and practically shorn sides.

This ‘do, popularized by the likes of David Beckham and Justin Bieber, is the ultimate chameleon, capable of being slicked back for a polished vibe, left loose and tousled for a laid-back look, or even sculpted into a retro-inspired pompadour.

Texture is key, whether it’s natural waves or a boost from styling products like Baxter of California’s Clay Pomade or Blind Barber’s 90 Proof Pomade that lend an effortlessly undone finish.

Hipster Facial Hair Styles

Another opportunity to show individuality? Perfect! Beards run the gamut from neatly trimmed to full-on lumberjack, with mustaches making a serious comeback, too. We’re talking ‘staches that would make a Victorian gent proud, often worn solo or as part of a beard, as seen on the faces of hipster icons like Jason Momoa or Jared Leto.

But don’t be fooled by the rugged look; even the burliest of hipster beards are meticulously groomed, with nary a hair out of place.

Hipster Grooming Products

True to the hipster ethos of all things natural and authentic, grooming products tend to be of the organic, eco-friendly variety.

We’re talking sulfate-free shampoos from Davines, conditioners packed with essential oils from Malin+Goetz, and styling products that harness the power of natural ingredients like the beeswax and coconut oil found in Firsthand Supply’s Styling Cream.

Even beard oils and balms from brands like Beardbrand and Jack Black are concocted with a nod to Mother Nature, ensuring that every follicle is nourished without harming the environment.

Hipster grooming is a testament to the fact that style and substance are two sides of the same coin. Every choice – from the cut of the hair to the products used to tame it – is a reflection of the hipster’s values, identity, and vision for a better world.

Men’s Hipster Style Icons

The Indie Musicians: The Lumineers & Bon Iver

Indie darlings like The Lumineers and Bon Iver have become accidental hipster style icons, their laid-back looks and soulful tunes epitomizing the very essence of the aesthetic.

The Lumineers’ lead singer Wesley Schultz, with his penchant for wide-brimmed hats, denim jackets, and vintage boots, and Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon, often seen in plaid flannels, beanies, and scruffy beards, embody the hipster ideal of effortless cool.

The Visionary Directors: Wes Anderson & Taika Waititi

Wes Anderson and Taika Waititi are the poster boys for a singular visual and narrative style that bleeds into their fashion choices.

Anderson, known for his obsessive attention to detail and perfectly symmetrical shots in films like The Royal Tenenbaums and The Grand Budapest Hotel, brings that same meticulous approach to his wardrobe, favoring quirky suits, whimsical prints, and accessories that look like they’ve been plucked straight from a bygone era.

Waititi, the mastermind behind offbeat comedies like What We Do in the Shadows and Jojo Rabbit, injects a dose of playful eclecticism into both his films and his fashion. He’s often seen in eye-popping suits, graphic tees, and a kaleidoscope of vintage and modern pieces that mirror his utterly unique creative vision.

The Actors: Donald Glover & Ezra Miller

Donald Glover and Ezra Miller are the new guard of hipster style, effortlessly blending high fashion with boundary-pushing, one-of-a-kind looks.

Glover, AKA Childish Gambino, is never afraid to make a statement, whether it’s with a bold print, a pop of color, or a vintage piece that feels both fresh and timeless – a sartorial reflection of his multi-hyphenate career that spans acting (Atlanta), music (“This Is America”), and comedy (stand up).

Miller, known for their roles in The Perks of Being a Wallflower and the Fantastic Beasts series, is the ultimate fashion rebel, defying gender norms and expectations with looks that range from avant-garde to downright fantastical, often incorporating elements of vintage, haute couture, and pure, unadulterated individuality.

Hipster Outfits for Men: How to Wear the Hipster Aesthetic

Want to rock the hipster aesthetic? It’s all about mixing those one-of-a-kind vintage finds with modern pieces that scream quality. Start with the foundation – a pair of raw denim jeans from A.P.C. or some tailored trousers from J.Crew, topped off with a graphic tee from Obey or a perfectly worn-in flannel from Pendleton.

Layer on a leather jacket from Schott NYC for some edge, or a tailored coat from Theory for a touch of sophistication. Accessorize like you mean it, with a pair of vintage-inspired glasses from Warby Parker, a statement watch from Shinola, or a handcrafted belt from Tanner Goods.

When it comes to shoes, think rugged Red Wing boots or retro Nikes to complete the look. But remember – the magic is in the details and the personal twists you bring to the table.

Final Verdict

Hipster style is more than just a fashion trend; it’s a way of life, a sartorial middle finger to the mainstream, a celebration of individuality and authenticity.

Whether you’re drawn to the perfectly coiffed facial hair, the eclectic mashup of vintage and modern, or the commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship, embracing the hipster aesthetic is all about telling your own unique style story.