So, you’re diggin’ RVCA, huh? I get it. It’s the Swiss Army knife of style, blending urban streetwear and lifestyle apparel into something you can wear from the skate park to a gallery opening. Now, wouldn’t it be great if there were more brands out there giving you that same high-five to your wardrobe?
Well, guess what? We’ve found not one, but 10 brands that rock the same vibe. Yep, they tick all the boxes—from skateboarding fashion and surf-inspired looks to trendy accessories. It’s like discovering a secret menu at your favorite eatery.
We get it; you’re not just after any brand. You want something that stands out, maybe even pushes the envelope a little. You’re after brands that scream youth culture but still have an eco-friendly heart. You want casual wear that’s comfy enough for Netflix binges but trendy enough for an impromptu night out.
Oh, and let’s not forget limited editions and artist collaborations that make you feel like you’re part of an exclusive club, without the hefty membership fee.
If you’re nodding your head right now, you’re gonna want to stick around. We’ve put together a list that’s jam-packed with brands offering unique prints, vintage-inspired goodness, and the best in indie fashion.
There’s even some gender-neutral options for those of us tired of the same old, same old. So, grab a cup of coffee, or something stronger (we’re not judging), and get ready to meet the siblings your wardrobe never knew it had. Trust me; you’re not gonna want to miss this.
In A Hurry? Here Are The Brands Mentioned In This Article
Brand | What You’ll Love | What to Watch For |
---|---|---|
Banks Journal | Blends eco-friendly materials with vintage-inspired designs. | Prices can be a bit steep for some items. |
General Admission | Think urban streetwear meets SoCal vibes. This is youth culture at its finest. | Sizes may run a bit small. |
Saturdays NYC | Offers a tasteful mix of lifestyle apparel and artist collaborations. | Their focus on minimalist design isn’t for everyone. |
Roark Revival | For the adventurous souls, offering rugged skateboarding fashion and travel gear. | You may find some items too “outdoorsy.” |
Former | Where indie fashion meets skate and surf, offering unique prints and textures. | Limited collections mean things sell out fast. |
Element | A staple in skateboarding fashion, with a sprinkle of youth culture. | Heavy branding on some pieces. |
Brixton | Offers versatile casual wear and killer trendy accessories. | The fit may vary between different types of clothing. |
Hurley | Known for surf-inspired apparel that’s both functional and stylish. | Material quality can vary. |
Billabong | A well-known name offering everything from casual wear to athleisure. | Not the place for understated looks. |
Rip Curl | Fantastic surf-inspired gear with a focus on sustainable materials. | Surf gear might not align with everyone’s needs. |
10 Brands Likes RVCA
So, you’re a fan of RVCA—me too. It’s like that trusty leather jacket that magically goes with everything. But what if I told you there are other “leather jackets” out there, each with its own flair?
Yeah, that’s right! We’re diving into 10 brands that give RVCA a run for its money in the realms of urban streetwear, skateboarding fashion, and everything in between. Buckle up, buttercup; we’re going on a style safari.
Banks Journal: The Eco-Chic Challenger
First on the runway is Banks Journal, an absolute gem for the eco-conscious among us. Seriously, if Captain Planet had a fashion line, it would look something like this. They merge eco-friendly fabrics with vintage-inspired designs, making you look like a trendsetter while keeping Mother Earth happy. That’s like hitting two birds with one sustainable, organic stone.
Compared to RVCA, you might find that Banks Journal has a softer, more natural color palette. It’s like RVCA’s artsy, hipster cousin who listens to vinyl records and eats organic quinoa. Now, does that make Banks Journal better? Not necessarily. RVCA has its own unique aesthetic that leans more towards the grungy, edgy side, which also has its charm.
But—and there’s always a but—your wallet might feel the pinch. Banks Journal can get a little pricey, especially when you’re eyeing those limited-edition pieces. It’s the cost of doing business with Mother Earth, my friends. If you’re okay with that trade-off, then by all means, make it rain—preferably with recycled or digital currency.
General Admission: Where Urban Meets Bohemian
Next up, let’s talk about General Admission, the brand that says “Hey, you can sit with us” in the most SoCal way possible. This is the poster child for urban streetwear mixed with those chill California vibes. If RVCA is the cool, mysterious artist, General Admission is the laid-back surfer with a skateboard under one arm and a cold brew coffee in the other.
While RVCA gives you more of a broad spectrum—from skateboarding fashion to artist collaborations—General Admission takes a different route. They stick to a formula that just works: simple, clean, and less is more. The fit and finish are on point, and they absolutely nail the youth culture aesthetic without making it look like you’re trying too hard.
But, let’s keep it real here: not everyone’s built the same, and General Admission seems to forget that sometimes. The sizes can run a bit small, so if you’re someone who actually enjoys their occasional carb fest (like me), you might need to size up. But if you dig their vibe and don’t mind playing the size guessing game, you’re in for a treat.
Saturdays NYC: The Minimalist Maestro
Moving right along, let’s gab about Saturdays NYC. Now, if RVCA is your go-to for that versatile, “wear it anywhere” vibe, Saturdays NYC is the one you pick when you want to look effortlessly cool without screaming for attention. Their focus on lifestyle apparel and artist collaborations gives you a chance to flaunt your cultured side without saying a word.
Saturdays NYC is a bit like that friend who’s quietly confident, never over-the-top but always on point. They have this minimalist aesthetic that’s sleek and clean—think monochromatic color schemes and subtle patterns. This makes it a pretty solid alternative for times when RVCA’s more expressive, edgier styles might feel like a bit much.
However, let’s not kid ourselves. Minimalist doesn’t always mean universally appealing. If your style mantra is “the bolder, the better,” Saturdays NYC might not be up your alley. It’s not that they’re bland; they’re just reserved. Like that guest at the party who enjoys deep conversations over shots.
Roark Revival: The Adventurer’s Dream Closet
Time to swap that paintbrush for a compass, because Roark Revival is all about that adventurous lifestyle. This brand takes skateboarding fashion and pushes it off a cliff, adding in some rugged, durable gear fit for your next world expedition. Or, you know, a weekend camping trip. Either way, you’re set.
Compared to RVCA, Roark Revival leans more into the great outdoors. They’re less about the skatepark and more about, say, trekking through a national park. Their clothes are built tough, made for people who see a “Do Not Enter” sign as more of a suggestion than a rule. If RVCA brings art to life, Roark Revival brings life to adventure.
And because there’s always a “however,” here it is: Roark Revival is not for the faint-hearted or the strictly urban. If you’re more comfortable on concrete than you are on a dirt trail, then you might find some of their items a little too “outdoorsy” for your liking. In other words, you might not want to rock their heavy-duty flannel at your next art gallery visit—unless that gallery is in the middle of a forest, of course.
Former: The Indie Darling with an Edge
Ah, Former, the brand that’s like the indie band you discovered before they got big. You get a blend of indie fashion and elements of skate and surf culture, all bundled up in unique textures and unique prints. Seriously, if RVCA is the mainstream radio hit, Former is the underground vinyl record you have to special-order.
This brand does edgy and nonconformist in a way that makes you do a double-take. It’s like they took the book of fashion rules, read it cover to cover, and then decided to write their own damn book. That’s what sets them apart from RVCA, which has a broader appeal but stays within certain lines. Former crosses those lines and then draws new ones.
However, and it’s a big however, their collections are limited, and when I say limited, I mean you might as well camp outside their store (or website) because stuff sells out quick. It’s like scoring tickets to a secret gig; if you snooze, you lose. So, if you’re vibing with their style, keep your eyes peeled and your clicking finger ready.
Element: The Skateboarding Staple
Ah, yes, Element. It’s like the peanut butter to RVCA’s jelly in the world of skateboarding fashion. But while RVCA dabbles in a little bit of everything, Element goes all-in on the skate culture. Their line screams youth culture, freedom, and the raw thrill of a kickflip perfectly executed.
Compared to RVCA, you’ll find that Element is deeply entrenched in skateboarding’s roots. It’s like the brand was born on a half-pipe. And don’t even get me started on their artist collaborations; they’re a work of art that belongs in a skatepark and not behind glass. It’s functional fashion that doesn’t sacrifice aesthetics, and that’s a hard balance to achieve.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I love me some branding, but Element can sometimes go a tad overboard. You’ll find their logo plastered on a lot of their pieces, and while it’s a cool logo, you might not want to be a walking billboard. So, if you’re someone who prefers subtlety in your branded attire, just be a little choosy when you’re browsing their collection.
Brixton: The Versatile Virtuoso
So, you’ve been cruising through RVCA’s collection and digging their blend of skateboarding fashion and artist collaborations, right? Now, meet Brixton, the brand that serves up a mixtape of styles. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of fashion; it’s got something for every mood and occasion.
While RVCA is the cool skater kid who dabbles in art class, Brixton is the yearbook photographer who’s also on the debate team and occasionally DJs on weekends. Their range is impressive, from vintage-inspired pieces to modern cuts that capture the zeitgeist of youth culture. If you like having options, then Brixton might just become your new fashion playground.
However, with great variety comes great responsibility—to your wallet. Brixton’s wide range could lead you down a shopping spree rabbit hole, and hey, I’m not judging. But if you’re on a budget, make sure to add to cart responsibly. The variety is tempting, but those dollars add up, my friend.
Hurley: The Surf’s-Up Sensation
Hurley, ah, the brand that makes you want to grab a surfboard even if the closest you’ve come to surfing is watching “Point Break.” This brand takes surf-inspired fashion and injects it with a dose of modernity. If RVCA is your all-around go-to for lifestyle apparel, Hurley is what you wear when you’re feeling those beach vibes.
Now, don’t get it twisted; Hurley does more than just make you look good on the beach. They’ve got some solid everyday wear too, blending comfort with style. It’s a more specialized vibe than RVCA, which spans multiple subcultures. But if you’re in the mood to hang ten, figuratively or literally, Hurley is your brand.
And now, for the reality check. Just because you’re wearing Hurley doesn’t mean you can surf like Kelly Slater. And not all their stuff is designed for an impromptu surf session; some of it is purely for aesthetics. So if you’re planning to catch some waves, make sure you’re picking up their performance gear and not just the casual stuff that only looks the part.
Billabong: The OG Surf Stalwart
Alright, let’s switch gears a bit and talk about Billabong. Now, if you’re into RVCA’s surf and skate vibe, then you’ve gotta give a nod to the OGs in the game. Billabong is like the granddaddy of surf-inspired fashion, setting trends and standards since forever—or at least the ’70s.
What makes Billabong a solid alternative to RVCA? It’s simple: they’ve been doing this a long time, and they’ve got it down to a science. While RVCA offers you a buffet of lifestyle apparel, Billabong gives you a masterclass in how surfwear should be done. From unique prints to the feel of the fabric, it’s tailored for those who live and breathe the beach.
But, and it’s a notable but, Billabong can sometimes feel a bit “been there, done that.” I mean, they’re a cornerstone in the surf scene for a reason, but if you’re looking for something that breaks the mold, you might find their collection a bit too safe. Let’s put it this way: Billabong is that classic rock song everyone loves but you’ve heard a million times.
Rip Curl: The Adrenaline Junkie’s Pick
Last but not least, let’s wrap things up with Rip Curl. This brand’s a powerhouse in the surf-inspired fashion scene, but it’s like the action movie version of RVCA’s indie film. You know, more explosions and chase scenes, less introspection and slow pans.
Where RVCA gives you a taste of multiple subcultures, Rip Curl focuses on high-adrenaline, high-impact activities. It’s the brand you want when you’re not just surfing but shredding waves, catching air, and maybe doing some casual cliff-diving over the weekend.
Of course, there’s a flip side. Rip Curl is, in a way, a specialist. If you’re not planning to get up close and personal with some gnarly waves or steep slopes, some of their gear might feel like overkill. So if your idea of an adrenaline rush is a double espresso, you might want to stick to their more casual line.
What Type of Aesthetic Is RVCA?
Ah, RVCA—the brand that somehow manages to be a Jack-of-all-trades without being a master of none. Picture this: if the world of lifestyle brands were a high school, RVCA would be that cool, laid-back kid who’s friends with everyone. From jocks to art geeks, everyone digs what RVCA brings to the table.
Also see: https://brandslikeit.com/brands-like-kill-crew/
The Art of the Aesthetic
So, what’s the RVCA aesthetic? It’s a tantalizing blend of skateboarding fashion, surf-inspired chill, and an undercurrent of indie fashion that’s subtle but oh-so-effective. Imagine grabbing a coffee at an indie café, then hitting the beach to catch some waves, and wrapping up the day at a skatepark—all without needing a wardrobe change.
Yep, that’s RVCA for you. It’s like they bottled the essence of youth culture and sprayed it on every piece of clothing they sell.
But hey, don’t think they skimp on quality to keep you looking effortlessly cool. Nope, RVCA understands the importance of unique prints and fine craftsmanship. They’ve got this cool artist collaborations thing going on that keeps their styles fresh and edgy. It’s fashion that you can live in without feeling like you’re trying too hard, you know?
The Many Hats of RVCA
Now, what’s RVCA well-known for? Sure, they’ve got their fingers in a lot of pies, but they’ve earned a reputation for being the go-to brand for lifestyle apparel that doesn’t box you into one category.
From their unique prints to their relaxed, beachy staples and even their skateboarding fashion, they’re all about embracing the full spectrum of life’s adventures.
The brand has also carved a niche in artist collaborations, and it’s not just some marketing gimmick. They partner with genuine, up-and-coming artists, which means you’re not just wearing a piece of clothing; you’re wearing a piece of someone’s soul. Kinda deep, huh?
RVCA: Where Art Meets Life
To sum it up, if you’re the type of person who hates being pigeonholed, who loves a little bit of this and a little bit of that, then RVCA is your brand. Whether you’re hitting the beach, grinding at a skatepark, or just enjoying a low-key day out, RVCA‘s got you covered.
It’s a brand that manages to be all things to all people while still staying true to its roots. And that, my friends, is no small feat.
Reasons Why You Might Look For Brands Like RVCA
Ah, RVCA, the brand that’s like that friend who can fit into any social circle without losing their unique edge. It’s hard to find fault with a brand that gives you so much variety, right? But let’s be real—sometimes you want to explore the party and mingle with some other guests. So, why might you look for brands like RVCA?
Also see: https://brandslikeit.com/brands-like-jaded-london/
Ready for a Flirt with Diversity?
First off, the RVCA aesthetic is a captivating blend of skateboarding fashion, surf vibes, and indie influences. But maybe, just maybe, you’re in the mood for something a bit more specialized. It’s like dating someone who’s good at everything but doesn’t totally rock your world in one specific thing.
Hey, no shame in admitting you want to dabble in something new. Whether it’s brands that are hyper-focused on surf-inspired fashion or ones that fully plunge into the skateboarding culture, you might find yourself yearning to diversify your wardrobe’s portfolio.
Your Wallet’s Cry for Help
Okay, let’s talk turkey—or better yet, let’s talk budgets. While RVCA has a decent range of price points, let’s be honest: it can get pricey, especially if you’re smitten with their more unique pieces. Lifestyle apparel is great, but it shouldn’t require taking out a second mortgage, right?
Exploring other brands can sometimes mean stumbling upon hidden gems that won’t have you living on ramen noodles for the rest of the month.
Artistic Exploration
Last but not least, let’s chat about RVCA’s artist collaborations. They’re a beautiful touch, for sure, but art is subjective, my friend. Maybe you’re looking for a brand that collaborates with artists who speak more directly to your soul.
Or perhaps you’re an art aficionado who wants to expand your wearable gallery. Either way, the art world is huge, and there’s no reason you can’t step out of the RVCA gallery for a bit to see what else is hanging on the walls elsewhere.
So, there you have it. While RVCA does a lot of things right, it’s not the be-all-end-all. It’s good to venture out, take a few fashion risks, and hey, maybe discover a new love. And remember, exploring doesn’t mean you can’t go back to your first love. After all, the heart wants what it wants, but sometimes it wants to see other people too.
We’re Michele and Allan Wilson, a dynamic duo of brand experts with a passion for simplifying the world of comparisons. Through relatable stories and straightforward advice, we transform challenging brand decisions into enjoyable explorations. With a touch of humor, we break down complex choices into manageable steps, guiding you through the brand maze while fostering a genuine connection. Our expertise lies in dissecting brand philosophies, highlighting hidden gems, and sharing practical solutions. Join us on a journey to unravel the mysteries of brands, discover unique options, and embark on a brand-savvy adventure together!