America’s continuous influence on global fashion

American trends have a huge influence on the rest of the world, whether it be technology, entertainment or commerce. One of the most influential factors that America continues to shape globally is fashion.

From the high-end designer brands created in New York to the more relaxed streetwear style popular in Los Angeles, America’s fashion is a unique blend of culture, history and creativity that continues to be adopted around the world.

In this post, we explore the country’s continued influence on fashion around the world and look at some of the key styles that originated in the United States and how they have spread.

America’s signature styles that have spread globally

While fashion is constantly evolving with new trends being developed all of the time, there are some key pieces that have emerged in America in the last couple of decades that have become cemented in global fashion, here are just some examples:

Varsity Jackets

Varsity jackets are one of the most recognizable styles in American fashion. They first originated from Ivy League colleges in the early 20th century and became symbolic for athletic achievement and team sportsmanship. They have been adopted by a range of designers, including high end brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci as well as many streetwear labels.

These jackets are comfortable statement pieces that can be dressed up or down as appropriate, their versatility has helped them to gain global appeal in both men’s and women’s fashion.

Layered clothing

Layered clothing such as double layered t-shirts become particularly popular in the 1990s and is synonymous with hip hop culture and streetwear style. It is particularly relevant to skater culture too.

Stars such as Kayne West have helped to give this look a more contemporary feel and made it popular with a wide audience around the world. Layered styles are versatile and people can put their own spin on the look to express their individuality and personal style.

Denim

Denim jeans were first popularized as durable workwear; however, they soon became fashion pieces in the 19th century. Designers such as Levis and Wranglers have helped shape denim as a key clothing ideal found in the wardrobes of men, women and children all around the world. The style is adaptable and not a trend that is likely to die out anytime soon.

Statement socks and sneakers

The combination of high white socks and sneakers is something that was first developed in America and is popular in sports and casual fashion. Brands such as Nike and Adidas have helped to influence the popularity of this look.

The role that social media and events play in fashion influence

In the digital age, the rise of social media apps has only helped increase the influence that the US have on global fashion and helped new trends spread more quickly and widely than ever before.

TikTok has become a huge part of this with fashion influencers sharing the outfits and scoring lucrative deals with fashion brands to promote their pieces.

Sports events have a significant place in American culture and events such as the Super Bowl are enjoyed by viewers around the world. Millions of people tune in to see the halftime show in particular and the looks from these become important trends of the season.

American celebrities are able to secure huge brand opportunities with US and international brands, some even create their own collections. Their fans then want to emulate these looks and this helps drive new trends.

The globalisation of trends in different regions

In Europe, American streetwear style is particularly popular and has been blended with European high fashion to create elegant casual looks. While in Asia, sports brands like Nike have a huge influence and have brought sportswear into mainstream fashion. America’s influence on global fashion is undeniable and the country continues to be at the forefront of fashion’s evolution.