"Looking up "urban lifestyle" on the net doesn't help: thousands upon thousands of potential definitions list an incredible array of ways of living from houseboats in Dubai marina, to hip-hop apartments in San Francisco. However, we would interpret all as having some link to the method in which we live and work i.e. increased awareness in technology, home entertainment, escalation in casual dressing for work etc."

In terms of the marketplace, "urban lifestyle" would be used to cover clothing inspired by streetwear: typically cargo trousers, hoodies and garments which combine comfort, practicality and street style, says Skinnifit.

"The market today is increasing dramatically due to the fact that the look is becoming more widespread in terms of age and usage. Hoodies, as we know them, came from New York's hip hop culture and provided ideal clothing for those with rather dodgy aims in life! The hoodie gained a more widespread popularity due to films like "Rocky" and its fame continued to develop throughout the ‘90's in US High Schools and the skateboard culture," it says.

"What was once rather niche has now grown into a widely accepted and worn look: clearly seen when we examine both the number and type of clothing brands which include hoodies and cargo pants in their ranges."

Skinnfit, Skinnifitmen and Skinni Minni all have hoodies within their ranges: made from a soft and comfortable 100% cotton, all with kangaroo pockets, a deep hood and wide ribbed cuffs and hem. This year sees the introduction of four new colours to the women's hoodie range including baby pink, versatile and contemporary olive and a bright royal.

The hoodie's versatility and practicality is one of the keys to its success - although there are many variations in size and shape currently in the marketplace. The Skinnifit hoodies have been carefully developed to offer the same shape and styling details as those found on the high street, making them suited to the more style-aware consumer. "Hoodies should be roomy but not baggy: below the waist but not below the bottom," it states.

Cargo pants, another key part of streetwear, have also become mainstream and are available in a wide variety of shapes and fabrics. Skinnifit and Skinnifitmen have cargos in their range - made from a lightweight 100% cotton and available in either sand or black. "They have been designed to be loose fitting and casual: and women should be aware that these definitely will not make the wearer look like an ex commando," says Skinnifit, suggesting that they are worn with a slimmer fitting T, such as one from its Modern Essential range to balance out the shape. "When thinking of urban lifestyle clothing, remember the key things: comfort, style and attitude!" it adds.

For further information on any of the ranges, contact your local Skinnifit distributor, or visit http://www.skinnifit.com/ where you can also request a copy of their new brochure: Skinnifit '08: Keeping it Simple

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