The blog era refers to the period from approximately 2005 to 2015 when dedicated streetwear and sneaker blogs became the primary sources for news, release information, and cultural commentary. Sites like Hypebeast (founded 2005), Highsnobiety (2005), and Complex shaped taste, broke news, and documented the culture in real time. Before blogs, information spread through magazines and word of mouth; blogs democratized access, allowing anyone with internet connection to follow drops, discover brands, and participate in discussions. The comment sections became communities where people debated, shared knowledge, and built reputations. Blogs elevated certain brands through coverage while others languished in obscurity—placement on Hypebeast could make a brand overnight. The era ended as social media, particularly Instagram, became the dominant platform for streetwear content. Former blogs evolved into media companies while the intimate, forum-like community atmosphere dissipated. The blog era produced many current industry figures who built followings through comments and content.
Definition B
Blog Era
The period from roughly 2005-2015 when streetwear blogs like Hypebeast and Highsnobiety defined culture and broke news.
Origin & Etymology
Descriptive term for the historical period when blogs dominated streetwear media. 'Blog' itself is a contraction of 'weblog.'
Related Brands
Related Terms
Hypebeast
A person who chases trends and logos over genuine style, buying based on perceived status rather than personal taste.
Hype
The collective anticipation and excitement surrounding a brand, release, or collaboration.
Streetwear
Casual fashion rooted in skateboarding, hip-hop, and youth culture that emerged in the 1980s and 90s.
Drop
A scheduled, often limited product release that creates urgency and community ritual around new pieces.