During last month’s New York Fashion Week, it was refreshing to see the show-going set come out to play in decidedly dressed-down looks. Novelty sweatshirts, equal parts kitsch and high style, were suddenly everywhere. With their retro graphics and campy slogans, they are spectacularly on trend and certain to prompt a few intrigued looks. Click through the slideshow for more in-your-face sweats and street-style shots of the look found in New York. And remember, the trick to wearing them is to not take any of it (FREAK! TOTES AMAZE!) too seriously.
Street interviews by Amelia Diamond and Rebecca Ramsey.
Balenciaga, $3,150 at 542 W. 22nd St.
Kristina Shvets 25, Advertising Manager “I like men’s sweatshirts, like this one from H&M. They fit better and aren’t as short and girlie as the women’s ones. I can wear this everywhere.”
Jeremy Scott, $440 at Opening Ceremony, 35 Howard St. Zoe Karssen, $160 at Net-a-Porter.com. Markus Lupfer, $460 at Net-a-Porter.com.
John Ramos 21, Student “I bought this for $60 at Urban Outfitters when I was looking for a New Year’s outfit last year. The design drew me because it’s so eye‑catching. It does get a lot of attention!”
Jeremy Scott, $440 at Opening Ceremony, 35 Howard St.
Emily Engelhardt 22, Studio Manager “I’m not super into The Simpsons, and I don’t particularly like cartoons, so I guess the sweatshirt is mostly ironic. I bought it at Forever 21 for $20.”
ASOS, $60 at ASOS.com. Jeremy Scott, $440 at Opening Ceremony, 35 Howard St.