From the early days of Run-D.M.C.’s iconic Adidas tracksuit to the sparkly jumpsuits adorned by Billy Porter at the 2019 GRAMMYs, hip-hop style has come a long way over the years. Influences from the streets of the US to the runways of Paris have had an indelible effect on popular fashion, and here we take a look at 20 of the most iconic and influential hip-hop style moments.
1. Introducing 20 Iconic Hip-Hop Style Moments
Hip-Hop has been infiltrating the world of fashion since its inception in the Bronx, back in the late 70s. Through the decades it has spawned a signature style built on street-wear trends and iconic statements, with countless moments throughout the evolution of the genre that remain embedded in modern culture’s collective memory.
We’re taking you on a journey through some of the iconic Hip-Hop style moments that took the world by storm:
- TLC’s CrazySexyCool-era crop tops and baggy jeans
- Boss Talkle’s stunt tracksuits
- Run DMC’s Adidas jumpsuits
- Lil Kim’s belly chains
- Nicki Minaj’s colorful wigs
- Drake and OVO’s owl logo
- Kanye West’s pink polos
- The Notorious BIG’s crown
- Lil Wayne’s skinny jeans
- Snoop Dogg’s red Phillies
These 20 iconic hip-hop style moments shook up the cultural landscape, inspiring a new era of fashion in the process. From police-influenced streetwear to the ironic must-haves of the 2000s, each marketable moment has contributed to the style revolution.
2. A Retrospective: Early Influencers in Hip-Hop Style
Overview of Early Influencers
The 1970s saw the emergence of a number of artists who would brought Hip Hop culture to the world. From Brooklyn’s Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five to The Sugarhill Gang and later Afrika Bambaataa in the Bronx, the early influencers set the stage for what would become known as the Hip Hop culture. It was these entertainers who crafted a culture based on individuality, expression, and freedom, each one bringing something unique and special to the table.
Hip Hop Style Emerges
In the same way that Hip Hop music paved the way for a new style of expression, the early practitioners of Hip Hop culture made it possible for style to become an important part of the art form. These artists were the first to bring the world of fashion to Hip Hop, which was defined by a number of distinct characteristics:
- Vibrant colors and patterns
- The use of streetwear for both music and fashion
- Baggy clothing to show off the music and style.
- Mixing luxury items with everyday fashions.
Styles that were born in the underground, these iconic fashion statements became part of the mainstream, influencing generations of musicians and fashion designers who have come afterward.
3. Combining Street and Runway: How Hip-Hop Has Influenced Fashion Trends
Hip-hop has had a profound impact on the fashion industry over the past few decades. From daring street style to the glam of the runway, hip-hop was influential in bringing together two completely different worlds. Here are some of the ways it has influenced fashion trends:
- Bold Colors – Hip-hop style often incorporates bright colors, as seen in everything from bedazzled jackets to loud sneakers.
- Oversized Apparel – Hip-hop clothing often features anything that is oversized - from jerseys to jeans.
- The Rise of Urban Streetwear – Hip-hop has been a major influence in the rise of urban streetwear, which is characterized by comfortable and stylish clothing.
In addition to influencing fashion trends, hip-hop also has changed the face of the fashion industry. Many hip-hop artists have made their mark on the fashion world, from Kanye West to Rihanna. These high-profile celebrities have helped to legitimize streetwear and urban fashion, giving it a more high-end feel. This, in turn, has made fashion more accessible to everyone.
4. Celebrating 2020’s Musical Icons: GRAMMY Awards and Hip-Hop Style
The GRAMMY Awards shines a light each year on the musicians and musical styles that have made an impression on the world. This year, GRAMMYs celebrated hip-hop as an undeniably influential and ever-evolving style. Innovative hip-hop artists, every one of them icons, filled the roster of nominees.
Rap music has made irrevocable mark on modern music, and the GRAMMY Awards showcased this fact. Hip-Hop brought something new and challenging to the music scene, and at the awards show, the audience got to experience an array of various sounds and styles:
- Trap & Southern rap
- Afrobeat & Dancehall
- Neo-Soul & Conscious Hip-Hop
This was an opportunity to cover a wide range of hip-hop variations. It was a much needed reminder of the immense impact the genre has had and continues to have on world culture.
From the streets to the runway, hip-hop has long reigned as an incredible source of style inspiration. From the iconic looks of Run-DMC to today’s stars, hip-hop style has proven to be timeless, daring, and always original. Her’s to many more years of hip-hop’s unequivocal style influence.
