The Evolution of Soho Style in NYC: Key Players, Where to Shop, and How to Get the Look

The Evolution of Soho Style

The New York City neighborhood of Soho has long been known for its trendsetting fashion. Since its beginnings as an artists' hub in the 1970s, Soho's urban chic aesthetic has influenced designers and fashion lovers around the world. Let's take a look at how the distinctive Soho style has evolved over the decades.

The 1970s: Offbeat and Avant-Garde

In the 1970s, Soho transformed from a neglected industrial area to a thriving artistic community. Attracted by cheap rents and large loft spaces, artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol moved into the neighborhood. The edgy creatives brought a radical, experimental vibe to Soho's fashion. Bright colors, quirky retro prints, and one-of-a-kind pieces defined the look. Soho style icons like Debbie Harry of Blondie mixed high fashion with punk rock edge.

The 1980s: Urban Sophistication

As Soho became more upscale in the 1980s, so did its fashion. The avant-garde gave way to a sophisticated urban chic look. Neutral colors like black, white, and gray were staples. Chic designer boutiques opened up along West Broadway, selling sleek, minimalist clothing. Leather jackets, angular suits, and classic trench coats epitomized refined 80s Soho style. Labels like Armani and Yamamoto led the charge in upscale urban fashion.

The 1990s: Bohemian Chic

In the 1990s, Soho retained its trendy reputation by embracing boho chic. Long flowing skirts, vintage tees, and cowboy boots characterized the laid-back look. Independent boutiques like Uni-Qlo popped up, selling casual wear at affordable prices. With its cast iron architecture and creative vibe, Soho was the perfect backdrop for carefree bohemian fashion.

The 2000s: Cool and Casual

As Soho became an increasingly popular shopping destination in the 2000s, its style remained casual yet trend-focused. Luxe leisurewear like juicy tracksuits and UGG boots hit the streets. Popular affordable brands like H&M and Zara opened up shop. The polished yet relaxed look was epitomized by the Olsen twins, who were frequently photographed shopping in Soho. Chains like Apple and Intermix blended into the hip but unpretentious vibe.

Today: Effortless Street Style

Nowadays, Soho's fashion scene reflects the neighborhood's trendy but low-key character. Smart street style reigns, with locals looking polished but uncomplicated. Popular items include structured bags, tailored coats, jeans, and sleek booties. Contemporary brands like Everlane and COS embody the refined but relaxed aesthetic. With its charming cafes, boutiques, and cast iron architecture, Soho remains an optimal spot for casual people watching and effortless style inspiration.

Key Players in Soho Fashion

Several designers, boutiques, and fashion icons have been instrumental in shaping Soho's distinctive style over the decades. Here are some of the key players.

Designers

Issey Miyake: This avant-garde Japanese designer opened a NYC boutique in Soho in the 1980s, pioneering East meets West style. His sculptural, monochromatic clothing meshed perfectly with the neighborhood's artsy vibe.

Marc Jacobs: In the 1990s, Marc Jacobs led the grunge fashion movement with his Perry Ellis “heroin chic” collection. His boutique at Bleecker and West 11th still anchors contemporary Soho style.

Alexander Wang: Known for model off-duty looks, Alexander Wang epitomizes Soho's cool street style. His boutique's sleek, minimalist vibe fits right in with the neighborhood aesthetic.

Boutiques

Opening Ceremony: Founded in 2002, this cutting-edge boutique showcases avant-garde designers alongside major labels. It continues Soho's reputation for incubating indie talents.

French Connection: Since the 1970s, this UK brand has embodied Soho's urban sophistication with sleek, modern clothing for men and women.

Resurrection: Legendary vintage shop Resurrection is a remnant of Soho's retro 1990s style. Its curated collection offers one-of-a-kind boho finds.

Style Icons

Kate Moss: The ultimate It Girl supermodel, Kate Moss was frequently photographed in Soho in the 1990s rocking relaxed boho looks.

Chloë Sevigny: The indie actress defines downtown cool. She exemplifies Soho's creative, of-the-moment fashion sense.

Sarah Jessica Parker: As Carrie on Sex and The City, SJP showcased Soho's blend of high and low fashion in her beloved Manolos and newspaper dress.

Where to Shop the Soho Look

Want to bring Soho style into your own wardrobe? These spots offer the neighborhood's iconic fashion flavor.

Modern Minimalism at COS

This contemporary Swedish label embodies Soho chic with its clean lines, muted palette, and enduring quality. Shop soft knits, tailored coats, and modern accessories.

Edgy Glam at Topshop

Located right on Broadway, the British fast fashion mecca offers trendy going-out looks with a daring edge. Find faux leather, sequins, and bold prints for nightlife.

Indie Designs at Steven Alan

Channel Soho's support of independent fashion at Steven Alan. The multi-brand boutique spotlights emerging labels alongside heritage brands for a unique mix.

Downtown Cool at Opening Ceremony

Discover innovative designers from around the globe at this influential Soho boutique. It's a go-to for one-of-a-kind streetwear and accessories.

Vintage Gems at What Goes Around Comes Around

For vintage finds that reflect Soho's retro roots, browse this shop's impressive collection of designer goods. Channel boho chic with pre-loved luxury.

How To Get The Look

Want to incorporate Soho style into your own wardrobe? Here are some tips:

Focus on quality basics

Build your looks around simple, well-made staples that work for day or night: think tailored trousers, leather jackets, soft tees, and versatile shoes.

Mix high and low

Combine a few splurge-worthy designer or vintage pieces with more affordable fast fashion items. Create unexpected pairings.

Add creative accents

Show your artistic side with one-of-a-kind accessories like an embroidered handbag, a vintage hat, or a handmade jewelry piece.

Choose modern minimalism

Monochromatic looks in neutral tones create a polished, sophisticated vibe. Stick to sleek silhouettes and muted shades.

Rebel with retro remixes

Reimagine retro pieces in a modern way, like pairing wide leg jeans with a cropped band tee, or a prairie dress with moto boots.

Layer creatively

Pile on the textures with items like slouchy sweaters, frayed denim, boho midi skirts, and faux fur accents.

With its blend of creativity, edge, and refinement, Soho style continues to thrive. By shopping local boutiques and honing your personal aesthetic, you too can channel downtown NYC flair wherever you are.

FAQs

What are the key elements of Soho style?

Soho style is known for neutral colors, minimalist silhouettes, retro throwbacks, creative layering, and an urban streetwear vibe. Signature Soho items include leather jackets, cropped jeans, boho midi skirts, tailored coats, and sleek booties.

Where are the best boutiques to shop Soho fashion?

Top Soho boutiques include COS, Opening Ceremony, Steven Alan, Topshop, What Goes Around Comes Around, and French Connection. These shops offer curated selections of clothing and accessories that capture Soho's aesthetic.

Which designers represent the Soho fashion scene?

Influential designers who have boutiques in Soho or encompass the neighborhood's style include Issey Miyake, Marc Jacobs, Alexander Wang, and local independent labels like Ulla Johnson and Sandy Liang.

Who are some style icons who frequent Soho?

Soho is a hotspot for spotting downtown cool celebrities and models like Kate Moss, Chloë Sevigny, and Sarah Jessica Parker who embody the neighborhood's signature fashion sense.

What is Soho's fashion origin and ethos?

Soho emerged in the 1970s as a hub for artists, punks and creatives. Its fashion has always channelled an avant-garde, experimental spirit and supported independent designers and boutiques alongside major retailers.