Ever since the early 70s when African Americans and Caribbean immigrants in the New York Bronx district invented what was known at the time as disco rap, hip hop and rap music has captivated a growing number of devotees around the world as the music spread. Along with graffiti art, break dance, and DJing, it is in evidence in everyday life in most populated towns and cities.
It has revolutionised the music industry with the music charts turned upside down, in a way only punk has got close to, while clubs changed their DJ sets and catered for those who wanted something different. With all musical genres, fashion has also played a huge part in the culture surrounding it, with specialist shops springing up. Here we look at some of the things to see in the fashion of hip hop.
Headwear has played a huge part in the fashion of the phenomenon with a standout piece being the Kangol hat that hip-hop pioneer, Kangol Kid popularised. The kangaroo logo is synonymous with style emblazoned on the combo of black polyester and cholorfiber bland fabric. It’s hard not to look cool when wearing such a hat and has therefore continued to be a big seller. Maybe some who make a purchase might also decide to spend some cash in an adult shop.
Back when hip-hop started out the fashion was all about being resourceful and setting trends with whatever was affordable. Those who wore it challenged the conventions of the time, which has continued to the present day. It was about being individual and looking good. Baggy pants quickly became in vogue along with hoodies, spawning whole collections which other fashions quickly got hold of realising their potential. Baseball caps, and those of basketball teams, featuring black role models were also regular items worn by those into hip hop.
Wardrobes were soon added to with items such as Timberland boots and then sneakers, as worn by global superstars. Accessories such as looped earrings, gold chains, were soon in abundance making a statement. Designer labels were soon adopted as bands such as Run-DMC found fame, with Adidas and Gucci among those who took the fashion to a new level. The Tommy Hilfiger brand was soon adopted, as artists like Snoop Dogg took the clothing to iconic status. Many pioneers began to make their mark and be a massive influence on hip-hop fashion.
Perhaps the trailblazer of hip-hop fashion is Dapper Dan, whose outfits in Harlem inspired famous artists to follow in his footsteps and wear his designs. Kani Kani is another famous name, as streetwear and baggy jeans became increasingly popular through his creations. Sean John and the influence of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs are two names who helped change fashion which included tracksuits and puffy vests.
Hip-hop continues to create new stars, attract new followers, and be a major influence around the world. It owes much to its forefathers and modern designers who have created a distinctive fashion.
© 2024, Seth "Digital Crates" Barmash. All rights reserved.
