Scrappy and scruffy

There’s always this stigma about subculture fashion. A specific style set is only to be worn by members of the immediately relevant subculture. It all makes sense, how the skinheads adhere to lederhosen and flight jackets, how Goths prefer velvet, lace, and mesh, and how once upon a time, a godforsaken tribe of misguided young men and women deigned to call themselves candy ravers and dressed in shockingly garish color combinations normally unfit for human consumption. So it’s only fair how skaters insist that their favored threads remain within the realm of ollies and hand plants. Well, too bad. It’s your turn to be commodified, masticated, and re-fed into the delicious world of mainstream fashion.

It’s an interesting crossway between rock and hiphop, with healthy doses of comfort thrown in for good measure. Shorts typically lean on the long side, occasionally baggy, and definitely worn with the right kind of belt (multi-colored garrison, tight-weave fabric, or screw and rivet styles only, please). Shirts typically work with just-right fit, and are available for abuse in any of a number of colors, typically bold, bright primaries or subdued cool and dark hues. Don’t forget the requisite pocket chain, stylishly dripping off the belt area and linking to a wallet or a set of keys, a wristband, and a snug-fitting cap, ski hat, or visor for good measure. Remember, it’s all about comfort.

What really holds it all together, of course, is the right kind of shoes. Built for comfort, durability, and mobility, it’s the perfect pair that can take you through an entire day of scraping across sidewalks and down handrails and other public places. Unless, of course, you’re like us, and you’re only in it for the look. Doesn’t matter any which way, you need a nice canvas, suede, or fabric pair to anchor the outfit.

Pick up a nice pair from Vans, with styles replete in the appropriately hardcore, kick-ass schematic you’re looking for. Pick from the Classics, which offers styles embellished with the time-tested icon of all things risky and scrappy, the skull, and from pieces that feature the classic checkerboard pattern. Or go for Old Skool, with designs in red, black, white, navy, and more, everything the average wannabe skater boy or girl needs for a little romp out on the handicap ramp. Or, more likely, for a leisurely stroll through the mall.

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Vans is located at the third floor of building B, SM Megamall and at the ground floor of SM City North Edsa Annex.