Issue 32: Streetwear Vibes
Spending the afternoon at OUF General Store with Stephen Chua
Hey friends!
We’re dropping some streetwear gems in this week’s issue. After a busy few weeks, we seized the opportunity to hang out with our dear friend, Stephen Chua, at his newly opened streetwear boutique – OUF General Store. We are absolutely in love with the minimal industrial style and couldn’t help but spend the afternoon trying on some of Stephen’s recommended pieces. Check out our looks on our IG!
Later days,
Marissa & Akina
Hanging out with Stephen Chua, Owner of OUF General Store
Having dedicated 14 years in the clothing retail industry, Stephen Chua recently opened his streetwear boutique in the heart of Tumon. The concept of Ouf General Store emerged during the pandemic when Chua took the time to reflect on his life goals and the next steps he wanted to take to achieve them.
🧢 History of Streetwear: Streetwear originated in Southern California in the 80s, emerging from surfing and skating culture. However, it wasn’t until the 90s that streetwear gained widespread prominence and was significantly influenced by urban subcultures, including hip-hop. During this period, boutiques emerged in New York, and since then, streetwear has become a diversified style worn today.
“It’s not just about sneakers, puffer jackets, and hoodies anymore. The revival of retro and vintage aesthetics has played a role in the popularity of pieces like loafers and the Birkenstock Boston. Gender-neutral pieces featuring oversized silhouettes, unisex design, and neutral color palettes are a norm,” says Chua
Ouf + General Store = Ouf General Store
According to Chua, the ‘Ouf’ part of the name is Verlan, a jargon younger French people use. It comes from the word “fou” which means mad or crazy. This slang is used to describe something exceptional or out of the ordinary but in a positive way.
The ‘General Store’ part of the name pays homage to the sari-sari stores in his hometown of Sta. Rosa Laguna, Philippines, where he would buy snacks growing up.
Available Brands
To mention a few, Palace, Supreme, Carhartt WIP, and Fear of God Essentials. They also carry thrifted pieces.
Urban Interior + Slow Fashion Focused
Drawing inspiration from the shops in NYC and Tokyo, the store offers a minimalistic and urban ambiance and design. Think concrete floors, metal fixtures, and a cozy couch at the center of it all.
📍 Ouf General Store
970 Pale San Vitores Rd, Tamuning, 96913, Guam
“We value quality goods over the quick turnover of trendy, disposable clothing. Slow fashion emphasizes the creation of high-quality, durable garments designed to last for a long time,” says Chua
👟 4 Tips for Styling Streetwear
Streetwear is about expressing yourself and your style. Here are some simple tips to help you get started.
1. Oversized sweats and shirts
Oversized sweaters, t-shirts, and loosely fitted bottoms have all been part of the look since the 90s. Like all fashion trends, there’s always an evolution, but what was considered a “rebellious look” is now a staple.
2. Include Statement Pieces
Graphic tees make great statement pieces when putting together your streetwear attire. It’s also an opportunity to share your unique passions (think mixtapes and vintage photography). Statement pieces are meant to be loud and bold, so keep it simple(ish).
3. Choose Slow Fashion
Slow fashion is about valuing quality over quantity. Embracing slow fashion also means a more ethical approach to clothing consumption.
4. Be Confident
When it comes down to it, it’s all about rocking your style with confidence (and we love how both Stephen and Hana are all about this!). It doesn’t matter if it’s your first time trying streetwear. Any wardrobe is an extension of your creative identity, so why not try something new?
📹 For Your Viewing Pleasure
choose your fighter | how to put together outfits by TheLineUp
Cool reads, bro
Other dope reading materials to fill your Sunday.
Have you tried this creamed mushroom and chicken recipe yet?
Focusing on people helps us to slow down.
Here’s how to plan your own writing retreat for anyone doing NaNoWriMo.
The influence of local hip-hop on South East Asia’s streetwear.
Spending some time in solitude doesn’t mean you’re lonely. Here are some of the benefits.
Have a Good One!
We have some great stuff coming up 😉 Follow us on IG for some of our upcoming giveaways.