Over the last two days, streetwear fanatics flocked to the Long Beach Convention Center for the bi-annual Agenda trade show. This ain’t your Devil Wears Prada fantasia: A quick walk through involves passing by graffiti artists painting on canvases, skaters gliding by while ogling street chic girls and impromptu business meetings in session right before your eyes.
While notable brands such as Adidas, RVCA, Vans and Herschel Supply Co. were in the house, many up—and-coming brands also showcased their goods. One stand-out company was Treats Skateboard Wax,which offers creative and deliciously looking skateboard wax shaped as popsicles, waffles, donuts and other stoner snacks—they’re even scented!
Wacky socks, pins, patches and even air fresheners with celebrity faces seemed to be a big hit this year. Who would’ve thought people would want to sport Kim Kardashian crying, Guy Fieri beaming a smile or Donald Trump’s orange-hued face on their outfits?
While many brands vied for the most creative or witty T-shirt of all, this RIPNDIP Frida tee with creepy cats stole the show for me. What can I say? I’m an absolute sucker for Frida Kahlo—just like every other millennial Xicana.
Some of the most unique offerings at Agenda were a Levi’s denim jacket exhibit offering customizable stitching, an air brush graffiti booth, virtual reality shopping demos, street art installations, skate ramps with basketball hoops, claw machines with 5-panel hats instead of plush toys, and even bling booths to satisfy the late 90’s/early 00’s rapper in all of us.
Although Agenda’s vibes are as easy-going as it gets, this is a straight-laced industry-only event meant for brands to get down to business. One couldn’t browse through a booth without being pitched a sale or exchanging business cards. So what’s the best tip for a successful trip to Agenda? “Make it worth your while—don’t just look at shit and stay quiet.” says Zach, an Agenda veteran who’s been to the show so many times he’s lost count, “Talk to people, make impressions, network—that’s the biggest thing.”
Until next Agenda!
