20 Jan How Do Cholos Dress Today?
Cholo style and fashion have evolved over the years, adapting to the times while still retaining its distinctive aesthetic. As a Mexican-American myself, I’ve always appreciated the cholo subculture and how cholos express their identities through their clothing and style choices. In this article, I’ll provide an in-depth look at how cholos dress in 2024, the key elements of cholo style, and how the look has changed compared to past decades.
The Evolution of Cholo Style
Cholo style first emerged in the 1940s and 1950s as a way for Mexican-American youths to assert their identities in the face of discrimination. The zoot suit became a famous part of cholo attire fashion, consisting of oversized jackets and pants that defied the mainstream styles of the time.
In the 1970s and 1980s, cholo style was adopted by Latino gang subcultures in Los Angeles. Things like bandanas, muscle shirts, khaki pants, and plaid shirts became trendy. Lowrider culture also had a major influence on cholo fashion with its incorporation of chinos, wife beaters, and flannels.
The 90s and 2000s saw cholos adopting streetwear elements like baseball caps, jerseys, baggy clothes, and sneakers. Brands like Nike Cortez, Dickies, and Ben Davis became staples. Tattoos, shaved heads, and facial hair also grew as ways for cholos to exhibit their toughness and masculinity.
Today in 2024, cholo style remains distinct but has evolved to incorporate newer trends. Next, I’ll go over the key components of how cholos dress now.
The Cholo Look Today
Hair and Grooming
- Many cholos sport short fades or shaved heads with lined-up hairlines. Buzz cuts and the “chongo” ponytail are also popular.
- Facial hair like mustaches, goatees, and soul patches give cholos a masculine, edgy look. Some rock full beards too.
- Getting tattoos is very common, especially on arms, necks, hands, and across the chest. Popular imagery includes crosses, Aztec/Hispanic art, names of loved ones, and phrases in Spanish.
- Eyeliner and groomed, full eyebrows are ways cholas (female cholos) enhance their beauty routines. Dark lipstick is often worn.
Tops
- Flannel button ups and plaid shirts are timeless cholo staples. They come in a range of colors and patterns worn open or buttoned only at the top.
- White tank tops and sleeveless undershirts show off tattoos. Some have provocative graphics.
- Jersey shirts with sports team logos like the Raiders, Lakers, Dodgers, or local city teams are hugely popular.
- For a flashy look, silk shirts with colorful Aztec or floral designs are donned, often buttoned only halfway.
- Wearing just a wifebeater or no shirt at all is common to expose tattoos and show off physique.
Bottoms
- Dickies pants or shorts remain a wardrobe essential. Different shades like black, tan, gray, dark blue, or brown get paired with creases.
- Cuffed, pressed khaki pants are another go-to. pleats are sometimes added.
- Basketball or gym shorts in black, navy, or gray provide a casual athletic vibe.
- For footwear, most cholos wear creased Dickies pants over shoes or tucked into socks.
- Belts range from simple leather to flashy designer buckles with Mexican imagery.
Shoes
- Classic black and white Nike Cortez sneakers are timeless kicks. Air Force 1’s and Jordans are popular too.
- Work boots like Doc Martens or Timberlands bring rugged utility.
- Expensive designer shoes like Gucci loafers display status.
- Pointy toe boots get incorporated for a dressier look.
Accessories
- Snapback hats with flat brims are often worn backward. The LA Dodgers logo is ubiquitous.
- Sunglasses range from classic Ray-Bans to modern sporty styles. They are worn day and night.
- Gold or silver necklaces and chains are common. Big medallions and crosses add bold flair.
- Earrings aren’t uncommon for male cholos, usually small hoops.
- Wallet chains trailing from back pockets show old school cholo style.
Why Cholos Dress This Way
Beyond just looking tough and cool, cholo fashion contains deeper significance and meaning for those who adopt the style. Here are some of the main motivations:
- Showing Pride – Clothing is a way to proudly celebrate Mexican and Latino heritage and flaunt ethnic identity.
- Brotherhood – The signature look fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity within the Mexican-American community.
- Rebellion – Cholo style has historically been associated with gangs and the image was a form of defiance against societal discrimination.
- Respect – Dressing with sharp creases, tattoos, and attitude commands respect from fellow cholos.
- Roots – It honors the struggle of past generations who started the movement in the mid 1900s.
- Masculinity – The overall aesthetic projects an aura of masculinity, strength, and machismo.
So clothing is more than just fashion – it’s a symbol of the cholo attitude and lifestyle. Their unique style will likely continue evolving but remain distinctly cholo.
Regional Differences
Cholo style can vary subtly based on region. Here are some of the key differences:
West Coast
More laidback casual wear like baggy shirts, shorts, and sneakers. LA Dodgers caps are practically mandatory. Dickies are the pant of choice. Lowrider culture influences slick old school looks.
Southwest
Snappier dressers who layer gold chains, silk shirts, and ornate belt buckles. Stitched cowboy boots and elaborate belt buckles reflect Mexican rodeo heritage.
Midwest/South
Influenced by Southern hip hop culture with more urban streetwear than traditional cholo style. More sports jerseys and shorts than khakis.
Texas
Mesh and button up shirts are common in Texas heat. Cowboy hats and snakeskin or ostrich boots get incorporated into outfits. The Dallas Cowboys are hugely popular.
East Coast
East Coast cholos blend cholo style with East Coast flair. Timberlands boots and Yankees caps are worn more often. Cuffed pants are traded for joggers and camo prints.
So while the cholo identity remains, regional influences definitely impact exactly how cholos in different areas dress and accessorize.
Cholas: The Female Cholo
Cholas have their own distinct style within cholo culture. Some key aspects include:
- Dark lipstick and neatly groomed, filled-in eyebrows
- Exaggerated black eyeliner and eyeshadow
- Carefully styled hair either down, in a high bun, or with bangs
- Long, sharp acrylic nails
- Sequined or satin party shirts
- Form-fitting pants to show off curves
- Platform heels or wedges
- Virgin Mary necklaces and crucifix earrings
Many cholas get full sleeve tattoos, though not always. There is strong emphasis on glamorous, femme fatale-esque beauty for these tough chicas.
Cholo Style in Mainstream Fashion
While some cholos take offense to it, cholo style has undeniably influenced mainstream fashion and culture.
Urban streetwear brands have incorporated cholo staples like Dickies, Cortez sneakers, flannels, and khakis within their designs. Tattoos, shaved heads, and wife beaters are now common fashion.
Musical artists like Cardi B, Post Malone, and G-Eazy have used cholo aesthetic in their music videos. Actors like Danny Trejo often portray cholo characters, further popularizing the image.
Luxury designers like Louis Vuitton have featured garments with cholo graphics and iconography. Shaved fade haircuts are requested regularly in barbershops nationwide.
There is a fine line between appreciation and appropriation. But cholo influences can be seen across high fashion and pop culture.
The Future of Cholo Style
While the cholo subculture remains marginalized in society, their distinct style and flair continues evolving with new generations.
As mainstream fashion co-opts cholo looks, I think future cholos will respond by either doubling down on traditional style or incorporating even edgier, progressive elements to maintain their counter-culture individualism.
Regional influences will diversify based on local cultures. Custom lowrider vehicles may make a comeback mixing modern tech with old school style.
Regardless, cholo fashion will surely continue reflecting the unique identities, values, and heritage of cholos for decades to come. Their resilience and pride endures.
FAQs
What clothing brands are most popular in cholo fashion?
Some of the most popular cholo clothing brands include Dickies, Ben Davis, Nike Cortez, Converse Chuck Taylors, Pendleton, and local sports teams. Dickies pants and Ben Davis shirts are longtime cholo staples. Nike Cortez sneakers are practically the official cholo shoes. Button-up Pendleton plaid shirts are also commonly worn. Jerseys representing local sports teams, especially the LA Dodgers, Raiders, and Lakers, are huge in cholo style.
What are some examples of cholo hairstyles?
The shaved head is one of the most iconic cholo hairstyles, often with a single forelock and lined up hairline. Short fades, buzz cuts, and the “chongo” ponytail braid are also popular for cholos. Cholas often wear their hair long, styled straight or in an updo. Bangs are common for cholas as well.
How has cholo fashion changed over time?
While keeping certain core elements, cholo style has evolved with the decades. Zoot suits and oversized suits were popular in the 40s/50s. In the 70s/80s, it shifted to muscle shirts, khakis, plaid, and bandanas. The 90s/2000s incorporated streetwear like sneakers, jerseys, and baseball caps. Today there is influence from hip hop, skate/surf, and high fashion mixing with these traditional styles.
What do tattoos symbolize in cholo culture?
Tattoos represent pride, identity, masculinity, and rebellion in cholo culture. They display religious icons like crosses or Aztec/Hispanic heritage. Tattoos also commemorate loved ones, neighborhoods, gang affiliations, incarceration, and the struggle of Latino immigrants. Full sleeves and prominent placement give status.
What are some regional differences in how cholos dress?
West Coast cholos wear more laid back casual basics with lowrider flair. Southwest cholos add elaborate buckles, silk shirts, and cowboy boots. Midwest/Southern cholos mix in hip hop streetwear. Texas cholos incorporate cowboy hats and boots. East Coast cholos blend cholo style with East Coast influences like Timberlands boots and Yankees caps.
Conclusion
Cholo fashion continues to thrive and evolve in the 21st century. While adapting to changing times, the signature aesthetic maintains its cultural pride, masculinity, rebellion, and distinction from mainstream style. Discover authenticity beyond fashion! Just as you learn to authenticate a Gucci bag, understanding the roots and details of cholo clothing unveils the resilience and identity of Mexican-American youth, influencing realms from high fashion to hip hop culture. As long as new generations inherit this tradition, the unique cholo style will continue making a statement for many years to come.