Streetwear has its own language. Newcomers to this world often stumble across terms like "drop," "oversized," or "hype culture." But don't worry – everything is explained here. Welcome to the Streetwear Lexicon.

Oversized – bigger is better

Oversized means deliberately too big. Hoodies that hang over your hands. T-shirts that fit like dresses. Trousers that are wide and loose. This isn't an accident or a mistake – it's intentional.

Oversized clothing originated in the skate and hip-hop culture of the 80s and 90s. Back then, it was about freedom of movement, comfort, and a casual look that stood in contrast to the tight, body-hugging fashion of the mainstream world. Today, oversized clothing is a statement: I wear what I want – not what I'm told to wear.

Drops – When products become events

A "drop" isn't a typical product launch. It's an event. Brands announce that a new product or collection will be available on a specific day and at a specific time – often in limited quantities. If you want it, you have to be quick. If you're too late, you're out of luck.

Hype Culture – When Clothing Becomes Currency

Hype is hard to define, but easy to recognize. It's the feeling that everyone is talking about a particular product. That it's everywhere on Instagram. That people are queuing up to buy it. That it's being sold on resale platforms for three times the original price.

Hype culture emerged with brands like Supreme, Off-White, and Yeezy. They understood that streetwear isn't just fashion—it's culture, identity, status. A box logo hoodie isn't just a hoodie. It's a symbol. An ID. A statement.

But hype also has its downsides. Bots buy up products in seconds. Resellers drive up prices. Some people don't buy because they love the product, but because they want to resell it. Hype can be authentic – or artificially created.

Overview of other streetwear codes

Collab (Collaboration): When two brands work together and release a joint collection. Often, something special – and highly sought after – results.

Grails: The ultimate piece that every streetwear fan wants, but few actually own. Often vintage, often expensive, always coveted.

Fit: Not the size, but the entire outfit. "Your fit is clean" means: Your outfit fits perfectly.

Why all of this is important

Streetwear is more than just clothing. It's a language, a culture, a movement. Those who know the codes understand why a hoodie can cost 300 euros. Why people line up in front of a shop at 6 a.m. Why a T-shirt with a certain logo means more than just fabric.

Otto STRTWR isn't about artificial hype. It's about designs that tell a story. About pieces you wear because they speak to you – not because everyone else has them. But knowing the codes helps you understand where streetwear comes from and where it's going.

Welcome to the world of streetwear. Now you know the rules – and you can break them if you want.

Which streetwear codes did you already know? Are there any terms we've missed? Let us know in the comments – we'd love to hear from you!