5 Ways Hip-Hop Has Revolutionized The Fashion Industry

Most of us are in love with fashion. It’s such a great way to express our own personalities and to make a personal statement. There is no doubt about the fact that wearing a certain clothing item or a particular type of shoe can make us feel a million times better. The fashion industry has the ability to fascinate people due to the fact that it is incredibly versatile and ever-changing. Throughout the years we have witnessed many fashion trends – some were fabulous, some were really weird. One of the most important factors that are constantly influencing the fashion industry – besides social and political changes – is what we call pop culture. Music and fashion always go hand in hand, so there is no wonder about the fact that hip-hop has a special place in the fashion industry.

The Track Suit

It’s enough to look at a few pictures of Run DMC in the 1970s to see that tracksuits were a big part of the hip-hop attire, which certainly piqued the interest of big sportswear brands; brand-name tracksuits (usually in bright colors) came to be an essential element for those involved with the hip-hop scene, especially in the early days. Especially at the beginning, hip-hop artists didn’t want to put themselves on a pedestal, instead they wanted to feel closer to their fans, something that could be seen including from the way they dressed.

Dressing Big

The hip-hop fashion constantly changed since the 1970s. Other iconic looks included the baggy silhouette, the oversized jersey (think about Jay-Z in the early 2000’s), the bomber jackets and, of course, the mink coats. Baggy clothing never really went out of style, having numerous comebacks, and jackets played a crucial role in establishing the super cool style we all came to know and love.

Shoes, Shoes, Shoes

From classic shell-toe sneakers to the newer lines signed by some of the biggest names in the industry, shoes are essential in order to complete the perfect look. Thankfully, the hip-hop world is also filled with strong, fascinating women that have been an inspiration to women everywhere not only through their talent, but also because they weren’t afraid to make bold sartorial statements. When this type of inspiration is combined with the love most women have for shoes, the results can only be spectacular. Footwear, including but not limited to women’s sneakers has been greatly influenced by this particular style.

The Bling

When we think about hip-hop jewelry we think BIG, gold and chunky. It’s made to impress, to fascinate people. Accessories like watches, chains, bracelets or rings have always been a part of this style, especially in the 1980s. Gold has been replaced by platinum in the mid 1990s, when even grills were platinum. Even though certain elements of this style have changed throughout the years, heavy jewelry is still iconic for the hip-hop fashion.

Let’s Not Forget the Hats

Besides gaudy jewelry, accessories have had a huge role in shaping the hip-hop image. Things like large eyeglasses, hats and caps often became a way to complement the outfits. For example, Kangol bucket hats were made super famous by artists like LL Cool J, who transformed them into an iconic classic. In the early 2000’s it was time for New Era caps to steal the spotlight; the brand did many collabs with some of the biggest artists of the time. It’s safe to say that PLIES is one of the biggest fans of the hats, due to the fact that he got a diamond encrusted medallion of a fitted cap.