Stereotyped or not?

By Vinessa Russell

Bogan High School

Video by Vinessa Russell

While a lot of teens hit the streets making a very bold style statement -- otherwise known as the “street-chic look,” there also is another camp -- kids whose wardrobes are built on two items: hoodies and jeans. We wondered what message this fashion choice presents to the world?

So, we turned to Elaine Welteroth, the fashion editor for Ebony magazine, to deconstruct the “hoodies and jeans” look and to tell us if she thinks negative assumptions get attached to the teens who constantly wear them...

VR: When you see someone walk into a store or restaurant with a hoodie and a pair of jeans on, what comes to mind?

EW: It depends on how the outfit is put together. These days, you can really make a trendy fashion statement with just a hoodie and jeans. See any new Chris Brown video.

This fusion of hip-hop culture and "skater" style has given rise to street lines that promote this casual, colorful aesthetic, especially for young men. The jeans are fitted and cuffed and paired with clean kicks. The hoodie is usually colorful and designed with a soft high grade cotton (fuzz ball free!). I think this look is stylish and of-the-moment.

That said, all hoodies and jeans are not created equal. If the pieces were oversized, unclean and thrown together sloppily, I may have a negative perception of the person's sense of style and overall manner.

Also, it depends on the social norms of the venue. If it is a dressy, upscale environment, jeans and hoodies may seem inappropriate and disrespectful. If it is a "come as you are" casual setting, I think people would generally be less judgmental about people's attire.

VR: Why is it that the way a person dresses can lead to generalizations?

EW: In general, one's personal style sends powerful messages to the world about who they are and what they aspire to. If you are careless in your dressing, people will assume you are just as careless in other aspects of your life.