Is Affliction clothing still in style in 2025? Or are Affliction shirts out of style?

Affliction Clothing, known for its bold, graphic-heavy designs and ties to MMA culture, once dominated the fashion scene in the 2000s. However, as trends shifted, its popularity waned: so, is Affliction clothing out of style?

A look back at Affliction’s peak

Affliction rose to prominence in the mid-to-late 2000s, especially within the MMA community. Its graphic T-shirts, featuring skulls, crosses, and gothic motifs, became a symbol of edgy, hypermasculine fashion. Celebrities like Randy Couture, Georges St-Pierre, and rockstars helped popularize the brand. During this era, Affliction and similar brands were synonymous with rebellion and extreme sports culture.

Affliction’s decline: why did it fall out of favor?

As fashion trends evolved in the 2010s, the hyper-embellished SK8 / Affliction Style aesthetic began to feel dated. Minimalism, streetwear, and athleisure became dominant forces in fashion, pushing graphic-heavy styles to the fringe. The brand also gained a reputation for being associated with "douchebag culture", further alienating mainstream audiences.

Despite its decline, Affliction Clothing never disappeared entirely. It retained a loyal fanbase within niche communities, including MMA enthusiasts, tattoo culture, and alternative streetwear fans.

Is Affliction clothing making a comeback?

In recent years, Y2K nostalgia on social media platforms like TikTok and the resurgence of bold, rebellious fashion trends have sparked interest in brands like Affliction and grunge accessories such as wallet chains. Younger generations exploring edgy streetwear aesthetics - including styles like 2000s Older Brother core, Cyber Grunge, Opium and Poser Core - have begun incorporating vintage Affliction pieces into their looks.

Why Affliction is be coming back:

• Nostalgia for the 2000s: The Y2K aesthetic has brought back embellished and distressed clothing styles.
• Bold graphics are trending again: Modern streetwear often embraces oversized prints and gothic influences.
• Niche appeal: Affliction’s ties to MMA culture and alternative streetwear keep it relevant in certain circles.
• Cheap alternatives: with the rise of e-commerce, similar brands and fast fashion websites, it is easier to shop for Affliction style garnments, but be careful about fake and counterfeit shirts.

How to style affliction clothing in 2024

If you're wondering how to wear Affliction clothing today, here are some modern styling tips:

• Balance the boldness: pair an Affliction T-shirt with minimalistic pieces like black jeans or a simple leather jacket.
• Layer smartly: use Affliction shirts as statement pieces layered under oversized hoodies or denim jackets.

• Incorporate accessories: add silver jewelry or studded belts to enhance the gothic elements of the aesthetic.
• Stay neutral: opt for monochrome looks to modernize Affliction’s bold graphics.

Where to buy Affliction clothing today?

For those interested in rediscovering or adding Affliction pieces to their wardrobe, here are some shopping tips:

• Check the official Affliction Clothing website for the latest collections.
• Zumiez also has new Affliction clothes.
• Browse second-hand platforms like Depop, Grailed, Poshmark or eBay for vintage Affliction styles.

• Check out our article 'Where to find Affliction clothes?'
• Explore niche alternative fashion retailers that carry Affliction-inspired designs or  specialize in alternative and MMA-inspired fashion.

So, are Affliction shirts out of style?

While Affliction clothing isn’t mainstream, it remains a significant part of alternative fashion and continues to inspire edgy, graphic-heavy trends. For those drawn to bold designs and nostalgic aesthetics, Affliction offers a unique way to stand out in today’s fashion landscape.