The hip-hop genre has long been a trailblazer in influencing fashion trends, with eyewear playing a central role in the looks of many iconic artists. From the anti-establishment vibes of NWA’s all-black outfits paired with dark sunglasses to MC Hammer’s flashy, oversized tinted shades on The Oprah Winfrey Show, hip-hop artists have leveraged eyewear as more than just accessories.
These glasses symbolize identity, character, and attitude, setting trends that ripple through the industry and beyond. And when it comes to music videos, hip-hop stars seize the opportunity to further amplify their style—showcasing memorable eyewear that often becomes as legendary as the songs themselves. Here, we’ll dive into four unforgettable eyeglass moments in hip-hop music videos that have left a lasting impression.
Oversized aviator glasses in “Murdergram Deux“
LL Cool J’s “Murdergram Deux,” a track from his latest album The Force, marked his first collaboration with Eminem. The track became an instant success, selling 2,450 copies in its initial weeks. The music video serves as a tribute to LL Cool J’s legacy, including references to his iconic looks from the ‘90s, an era when he helped define hip-hop style. Throughout the video, LL Cool J rocks various pairs of eyewear, including an oversized pair of thick-rimmed aviator glasses. These eyeglasses are similar to the MOD 6035 Caval style that was once a staple in the early 2000s hip-hop scene and reflects a mix of boldness and nostalgia. LL Cool J’s oversized aviators align with the track’s homage to hip-hop history and his own reputation as a fashion icon, further proving how shades can complete a powerful look.
Chunky black frames in “Knock It Out”
Glasses Malone has always embraced his namesake, donning a collection of bold, oversized eyewear that complements his formidable presence in the hip-hop world. Introduced to the scene by Mack 10 and later brought into Cash Money Records, Glasses Malone became well-known for his authentic, insightful lyrics. In the music video for “Knock It Out,” a collaboration with B.o.B. released under his label Division Media Corporation, Glasses Malone sports a pair of chunky black frames that align with his larger-than-life persona. These glasses add to the intensity of his look, mirroring his unfiltered style. For those looking to emulate his iconic frames, stylish options like the Oakley Holbrook RX in satin black, available on FramesDirect, offer a similar aesthetic with modern-day durability.
Rimless eyeglasses in “To Be Worried”
The ‘90s were marked by a surge in rimless eyewear, with sleek, minimalistic frames appearing in countless designs and colors. Musicians, actors, and streetwear enthusiasts all embraced this trend, and it’s making a comeback today. In his music video for “To Be Worried,” Rich Homie Quan is seen sporting a stylish pair of rimless rectangular glasses, a choice that reflects both sophistication and streetwise flair.
Rich Homie Quan’s eyewear is perfectly complemented by his signature gold chains and stud earrings—accessories that define his unique brand of trap style. For fans hoping to adopt a similar look, the Ray-Ban RB8755 is an equally sleek, modern design that captures the understated elegance of rimless frames, giving a nod to the past while remaining timelessly fashionable.
Gold rectangular glasses in “Best Friend”
Young Thug, celebrated for his eclectic vocal style and audacious fashion, has continuously pushed the boundaries of hip-hop aesthetics. Now a Grammy Award winner, Young Thug’s discography boasts musical collaborations with rappers like 21 Savage, Future, and Drake in his 2023 album Business Is Business. Notably, Young Thug has made glasses a regular feature in both his lyrics and his looks. In the music video for his 2015 single “Best Friend,” Young Thug wears a pair of dazzling, gold rectangular eyeglasses that make a bold fashion statement.
These glasses reflect his unapologetically flashy style, combining hip-hop swagger with a taste for the avant-garde. For those drawn to this luxurious and distinctive look, options like the geometric Shuron Ronwinne frames or Gucci GG1092OA glasses with a gold chain attachment can deliver the same level of high-impact flair that Young Thug embodies.
From LL Cool J’s nod to ‘90s hip-hop with oversized aviators to Young Thug’s golden spectacles, eyewear continues to be an essential part of hip-hop fashion. These memorable music video looks serve as a reminder of how accessories can shape an artist’s identity and elevate their presence, leaving fans with inspiration that’s as timeless as the music itself.
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