Spring is often the time when people (specifically Minnesota girls) attempt to wear the least amount of clothing they possibly can before being arrested for indecent exposure. In Minneapolis, its the time to wear the tightest hipster clothing afforded before one passes out from asphyxiation. Either way it’s an annual rite for all sexes to celebrate the passing of winter’s scythe. But for men, it’s often hard to give up the jeans, zip-ups and heavy sneakers after having comfortably set into them for several months. Fortunately, local shops can afford guys spring inspiration without breaking the bank.

VS. Social Standard and Cal Surf offer the best selection of the newest streetwear from various labels. Besides the obligatory flannel shirt in bold colors, a trend coming back is the retro tank top. Cal Surf’s sought after brands are Nike shoes and Vans tees and shorts. They’re also carrying WESC, which calls itself street fashion for intellectual slackers and puts out clean lines and colors.

Vincent Shim is busy building bicycles in the back of his store but don’t worry, his select line of streetwear collected from labels across the planet will keep you busy. Fresh looks come in weekly to VS Social in Uptown and Southdale, and many bike trick riders sport his threads. VS also has a way of finding streetwear boots and custom dyed jeans that would put Len Druskin to shame.

Past Warehouse and over in the Mill District, Martin Patrick3 offers refined accessories that are unmatched elsewhere. Their Tokyo Bay watches are perfect for price and quality — plus changeable bands. Recently they’re offering a lot of Fred Perry which could be called Britain’s casual street fashion. New in the bag department are Danish influenced Baekgaard oilcloth messengers and totes.