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When it comes to the Mile High City’s sense of style, you’re more likely to find outdoor apparel than streetwear, even in the heart of Denver’s hippest neighborhoods. But thanks to a handful of brands, streetwear is finding a foothold here, bringing an eclectic mix of graphic T-shirts, sneakers, sweatshirts, and jumpsuits to inspire a citizenry that often feels beholden to its uniform of Patagonia sweaters and puffy jackets.
Streetwear itself defies definition. Instead, it’s beholden to both culture and era and dependent on individualism. The late, great New York Times fashion photographer, Bill Cunningham, discerned street style as a keen catalog of ordinary people’s clothing—except it often doesn’t feel ordinary at all. In Denver, street style is all about that extra edge and grit, which is what these seven shops and designers are bringing to their customers.
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Lawrence & Larimer
Colorado natives John and Keyonna Chapman launched Lawrence & Larimer in hopes of creating a space that promotes personal style and individuality. Walking into the shop—the outside of which is painted a striking blue and yellow—you feel the same warmth and hospitality as you would walking into your favorite aunt’s house. This brand is known for its handmade products like tailor-made T-shirts curated with fabrics sourced from all around the world. Whether it’s men’s, women’s, or kid’s fashion, you can count on Lawrence & Larimer for dope polos, sweatshirts, t-shirts, denim, and more. Plus, every item in the store is special to Lawrence & Larimer; they only sell their own products making every purchase one of a kind. 3229 E. Colfax Ave.
Culture Street
As a new store in town, Culture Street serves as a one-stop shop where fashion, footwear, music, and art intersect—a collaboration that showcases the versatility of streetwear. Here, you’ll find a selection of goods from Denver-based companies, such as Liv’n and Tydal Wear, as well as Converse, Supreme, and even Balenciaga. And the Stapleton shop is one of the few places you can find a pair of exclusive Yeezys in Denver. Uniquely, this store also has a consignment arm that owner Andy Velopulos has dubbed #hypesignment, which offers customers an avenue to spread the love by buying, selling, or trading genuine street items. 8316 E. 49th Ave., #1660
Abstract Denver
For 17 years, Abstract Denver has been a pillar in the local streetwear community. The company started as IndyInk, a screen printing company that is still in operation, but has since expanded to increase its retail component, selling clothing under its own label, as well as from brands like Community, Create Karma, Rebel 8, and many more. Additionally, from Abstract’s home in the Santa Fe Arts District, the company hosts monthly First Friday art shows, which showcase the works of local artists while visitors can shop the store’s offerings. 742 Santa Fe Dr.
Station
Since March 2015, Station has been bringing its unique perspective on streetwear to Denver, with a focus on vintage apparel and accessories, including t-shirts, hoodies, pants, and outerwear. Station recently closed its Five Points brick-and-mortar shop at the end of January of 2019, but you can still find the expertly curated collection of vintage and contemporary clothing in the brand’s online store. Station will continue to host pop-up shops and cultivate collaborations around the city while searching for a new storefront. Custom designs only; david@stationdenver.com
Be a Good Person
Be A Good Person is based on a very basic concept—promoting positivity in the community. Founded by Aurora natives Darian Simon and Julian Donaldson in 2015, the brand has quickly gained a following, with celebrities like Wiz Khalifa and a handful of Denver Broncos players spotted wearing tees, hoodies, bomber jackets, and accessories emblazoned with their “Be a Good Person” emblem. Even more, the brand goes beyond its key phrase—it walks the walk. The company is active in fundraising for causes in the Denver community, such as supporting local schools and the Make A Wish Foundation. 2830 Larimer St.
Vintage Frame of Mind
Vintage Frame of Mind is a women’s clothing line that promotes self-love and embraces natural beauty. Designer and Colorado native Felicia Benavidez prides herself on helping women feel confident no matter their size or shape. VFM’s pieces, like graffiti-covered jumpsuits, wide-leg joggers, and flowy kimonos, are known to have vibrant pops of colors, fearless prints, and intricate architecture. “I decided to create streetwear because it’s all inclusive! To me, streetwear is a combination of different types of fashion. It’s a way to truly express who you are and how you feel that day,” Benavidez told 5280. “My brand is unique because we aim to empower people by providing one of a kind pieces that accentuate their figure while remaining classy and sophisticated.” Custom designs only; felicia@vintageframeofmind.com
Fice Gallery
Fice Gallery is where sneakerheads go to find their next great pair of kicks. The sneaker gallery was born in Salt Lake City but opened its doors in the Mile High on September 24, 2016. Owner Corey Bullough told BusinessDen he knew he needed to bring a store to Denver after taking in the vibes of RiNo. Fice is unlike anything else you’ll find in the Mile High City. The merchandise—think brands like 10 Deep, Vans Vault, and Jordans—is sourced from California and New York, and you’ll only find a couple of pairs in each size. By shopping at Fice, you’re sure to have a pair of sneakers not shared by many others. 2650 Walnut St.
