Hip hop culture emerged in the late 1970s, bringing with it a distinct style of clothing that reflects the social statement of the music. The popularity of hip hop clothing has transcended cultural barriers and is recognized worldwide, with brands like Adidas, Kangol, and Pro-Keds. In the 1990s, big-name designers heavily included hip hop clothing in their lines, and the style became dressier. Men and women’s clothing styles began to diverge, with men’s clothing resembling gangster looks and women’s clothing becoming more feminine and glamorous.
Beginning in the late 1970s, hip hop culture emerged, bringing with it a distinct style of clothing. This style of clothing was and still is a reflection of the social statement that the music it comes from represents. The popularity of hip hop clothing is seen to cross many cultural barriers while continuing to challenge what is considered the norm. Since its inception, the popularity of this clothing has transcended the African-American urban movement from which it began and is now recognized for its worldwide popularity, although it is still credited as a style with entirely American origins.
In the early 1980s, when hip hop clothing began to make its way into the fashion world, the go-to wardrobe item was a branded tracksuit. Favored in bright shades, the style dictated that they be worn in large sizes and not form-fitting. The most commonly worn accessories with this ensemble were large sunglasses called Cazals, along with jewelry and heavy chains. Adidas sneakers saw a surge in popularity at this time, as this was the sneaker of choice, as well as brands from Kangol and Pro-Keds.
In the early 1990s, hip hop clothing became a bit more mainstream than it originally had been. This style became increasingly popular among young people. Not only did the popularity of the style invade many high schools, but it was also seen in runaways from the world of high fashion. It was also during the 1990s that big-name designers began to heavily include hip hop clothing in their lines. Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, and Ralph Lauren, among many others, featured distinctive hip hop designs. At this time, the look became decidedly dressier, including double-breasted suits and silk shirts as part of the hip hop style of the time.
This decade also marked the break in clothing styles that were similarly worn by both men and women. Up to this point, men’s and women’s hip hop clothing was characterized by oversized garments, large pants, and flannel shirts. Beginning in the 1990s, men were seen with looks reminiscent of Al Capone and other well-known gangsters. Women’s clothing now tended towards a more feminine and glamorous feel. Hip hop clothing had really become a mainstay of fashion.
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