It’s no secret that hip-hop has been influential in the fashion world. For decades, hip-hop culture and fashion have been intertwined. Streetwear fashion being heavily influenced by the music genre. It is no surprise that the styles of hip-hop artists have made an impact on streetwear fashion.
When we look at the early days of hip-hop, it is easy to see how the style of the genre inspired streetwear fashion. Hip-hop artists were known for their signature looks, including oversized gold chains, colorful athletic wear, and sneakers. This look has been associated with streetwear since then, with brands creating collections that reflect the aesthetic popularized by hip-hop artists. During the 90s, artists/groups such as Wu-Tang Clan and Snoop Dogg were prominent influences.

The lyrics and themes expressed in hip-hop music often depict struggles of inner-city life, and this has translated into streetwear fashion. Brands, like Supreme and Stussy have become synonymous with hip-hop culture, known for their use of bold graphics, bright colors, and slogans. These designs are often inspired by hip-hop lyrics. Timberland gained traction in the 90s in New York, going on to gain wider traction as streetwear. The hip-hop fashion of the late 90s and early 2000s was also defined by baggy clothes; becoming an iconic look within the scene.
It is clear that hip-hop has played an important role in the evolution of streetwear fashion, inspired by the styles of artists in the past, the 90s, 80s, and beyond. The influence of hip-hop can be seen everywhere in streetwear fashion today. As hip-hop continues to evolve, it’s likely that streetwear fashion will continue to be heavily influenced by the genre for years to come.
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