The stylist working the Action Sports Retailer Trade Show Runway Show co-sponsored by Foam Magazine Friday, January 26, deserved serious props for creating a unique apparel show that will definitely push new signature traits in the near future. Though grunge-esque in many regards with thermal layers, plaids, and a mix of the whole wilderness camping theme from the Midwest and Northwest, the mixture of skate, punk, Japanese school-girl, UK duckie boots, and thigh-high argyle socks and selvedged leggings gave what could have been a simple action sports lifestyle show its real bite by bringing in a whole new-school apocalyptic deconstructed vibe (think Jeff Sebalia’s work and Cosa Nostra).

Interestingly, the mix appeared to also represent some of the new street trends coming out of Tokyo (see also “Plaids from Japan in Lumberjack, Grunge, Punk, School-Girl Styles Inspire New Trends Out of Retro Patterns,” December), but of course in this case, what was included is an influence from more skate-inspired Americana themes, i.e., thigh-high tube socks, hoodies, knee-high rubber duckie boots, and Northwestern grunge plaids with a punk rock twist thanks to big-hair done by Desa Salon and make-up by Caren Elle. Highlights were the bright colored rubber boots, new twist on modern dresses, herringbone shorts, denim shorts, and corduroy shorts, striped sweaters, military themes in jackets, plaids, thermals, leggings, tights, and thigh-high tube socks. Brands included American Apparel, DC, RVCA, Volcom, Quiksilver, Oakley, DVS, Roxy, Matix, Fox, Split, Ezekiel, Hurley, Audio, Etnies, Body Glove, Allyance, Surf Diva, Planet Earth, Rip Curl.

This show indicates that trends are forever coming from the bottom-up these days, especially in America where action sports inspired brands are rooted and inspired by a utilitarian vibe mixed with music, skate, and savvy personal DIY style.

Check out the slideshow below for pictures, and live footage on Label Networks TV straight from the ASR Runway where host AJ Jackson raps-up with a quick interview with Oakley’s merchandising manager after the show: