The term hipster is a moving target, and as fashion once worn by hipsters becomes mainstream, it can no longer be considered hipster clothing. Hipsters are a social group, not a fashion style, but hipster clothing often relates to the interests of the social group. In general, hipsters enjoy wearing styles that they perceive as authentic or that they believe serve as a commentary on contemporary fashion.
Since hipsters often idealize an emaciated body type, it is common for clothes that are very tight or very loose to be considered hipster clothing. For men, tight pants and close-fitting shirts are common. Women may wear tight clothes, particularly on their lower body, but shirts are often more variable. Loose shirts and large jackets are common hipster clothes for women.
Hipsters are known to co-opt the styles of other groups to serve the purpose of irony. They may, for example, wear vintage sequined jackets that might look appropriate on an older woman by contemporary standards. What constitutes hipster clothing depends partially on who is wearing the clothing, because all of a hipster's wardrobe might be considered hipster clothing even if it is obviously related to another fashion movement.
Usually, hipsters attempt to exude effortlessness, and their clothes often look as though they are comfortable to wear. They may not match, or they may look wrinkled or otherwise ill cared for. Often, clothing items are purchased in a pre-worn state, which helps make them look more authentic.
Accessories are a large feature of hipster clothing. Large glasses, in particular, are often worn even by people with no need for prescription lenses. Jewelry is often worn by members of both genders and may bear unusual motifs, such as cupcakes or mustaches. Functional accessories, such as bike locks, knives, and art supplies, are usually worn in such a way as to broadcast an association with these objects.
Since the hipster culture is always changing, it can be difficult to pin down precisely what clothing can be considered hipster clothing. One technique that can be helpful is to go to the places where hipsters hang out, including record stores and coffee shops, and observe current hipsters in action. Usually, all the hipsters will be wearing clothing that is strikingly similar in terms of pattern or fit. Alternatively, an observer can always go to a hipster clothes store and observe the shopping patterns of hipsters in action. It is important to understand that there is a high risk that as soon as hipster clothing has been purchased, trends will move forward to exclude the clothing that has just been purchased.
