Camo

Camo (camouflage) patterns have been central to streetwear since its origins, connecting to military surplus aesthetics, hip-hop style, and hunting/outdoor culture. BAPE's ABC (Ape Bape Camo) elevated camo from utilitarian pattern to signature branding—the distinctive pattern with hidden ape heads became instantly recognizable and appeared across the brand's entire range. BAPE produced camo in colors beyond traditional woodland: pink, blue, purple, and seasonal variations. Other streetwear interpretations include Stussy's camouflage pieces, Supreme's various camo iterations, and countless brands' takes on the pattern. Camo in streetwear context signals different things than traditional use: it's about visibility rather than concealment, bold statement rather than blending in. The pattern's popularity waxes and wanes with trends, but it remains a foundational streetwear graphic. Understanding camo's various iterations—from classic woodland to tiger stripe to BAPE's signature—demonstrates streetwear literacy and the culture's relationship with military and outdoor aesthetics.