As the new post-pandemic normal settles in and people adapt to a context of uncertainty, constant adversities, and pessimism, we are moving away from a moment in which consumers expected brands to rise up to society's challenges and into one when they’re demanding genuine allyship from businesses.

Streetwear brand Supreme is a bundle of contradictions. It’s affordable yet exclusive; ultra-rare but surprisingly easy to buy; and is both a high fashion collaborator and foundation of subcultural style. How has this niche label kept its cool, even while attracting gaggles of teens to its stores?

The resale market for streetwear has expanded from niche online communities to form a sizeable part of the $18 billion apparel resale industry. But who are the key players in this world? And what drives people to spend small fortunes to secure particular sneakers, t-shirts and hoodies?

For today's youth, neo-tribalism is the new clique. Leaving blind conformity behind, these fast-moving, flexible cultures are a cocktail of affiliations and references, always shifting and reforming. But if everyone can be whoever they like, how do you know who’s in or out?

In a rush? No make-up brush? No worries. Milk understands the way young women think about and use beauty products. Sold as ‘high concept, low maintenance’, it's inspired by and designed for creative, cool girls – providing mascara that’ll stay on all weekend and lipstick that’s actually kiss-proof.

Shoppers are splashing out on wardrobe staples, opting for basics crafted with premium fabrics over flashy showpieces. As priorities shift from flaunting logos to forming a long-lasting, quality wardrobe, basics – think white T-shirts or the perfect pair of jeans – are becoming the new status symbols.

In today’s economy – in which ‘good’ jobs are typically knowledge- or tech-based – many well-educated young Americans are now choosing to pursue traditionally low-status careers. Canvas8 spoke to Richard Ocejo, author of Masters of Craft, to learn why it’s cool to be a butcher or a barber.

In New York, it’s possible to spend $18 on a single cup of coffee, yet while it may be higher quality than a regular old americano, not everyone can justify such an indulgence. Enter Locol, a 'revolutionary fast food chain' that’s on a mission to make artisanal food and drink affordable.

With a taste for high status, yet understated, luxury goods, the ‘Modern Preps’ are the most affluent of US youth subcultures. In the sixth of a series exploring Gen Y and Z tribes, Andrea Graham Richeson examines whether this group’s influence and purchasing power can keep legacy brands alive.