How Black Culture Popularized Streetwear

Image Courtesy: Strike FSU

Streetwear is a style of clothing that is continuously gaining popularity. Every year, trends from 90s streetwear come back into style. This has been done with items like baggy pants, Air Jordan shoes, oversized jackets and of course many more. Every style starts from somewhere, so where did these trends all begin?

The black community, more specifically, the black hip hop community, is where streetwear first began. It emerged in the 1980s but became popularized in the 1990s. The golden age of hip hop was a time of innovation and expression. During this time, artists were experimenting with new beats, rhymes, and fashion. Art in all forms was being pioneered which led to iconic trends.

Today, it seems skinny jeans are making a way out and baggy pants are moving on in. Baggy pants were worn by black artists for creative music videos and upscale events like award shows. The girl group TLC were experts at styling slouchy pants. They have multiple looks wearing baggy pants not only in denim, but with reflective nylon, leather, and satin. Baggy jeans were also a staple for rappers during the 90s. FUBU was a black owned clothing brand and one of the biggest baggy denim brands for this time worn by rap artists such as LL Cool J.

Image Courtesy: Essence

Air Jordans are some of the most sought-after shoes. Nike and the legend known as Michael Jordan, teamed up to create these iconic sneakers in 1984 that were then released to the public in 1985. Owning a pair of Jordan's was something special for black youth. Air Jordan and hip-hop culture became synonymous. Talented athletes and rappers are often trendsetters in the black community so when these shoes were worn by them, they became desired and extremely popular amongst everyone. These shoes launched sneaker culture into what it is today.

Image Courtesy: Sneakernews

As we know, oversized clothing is a key part of streetwear. But oversized jackets in particular are a major staple for this style. Denim, puffer, starter, Avirex, and track jackets were seen everywhere in the black community. Those who lived in colder areas like New York City and Chicago needed jackets for survival but were able to turn them into a fashion statement as well. These large jackets created a cool urban look and were paired with items like snapback caps, plain white tees, and bucket hats. Rappers like Biggie and Mase could be seen sporting large jackets.

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Art through fashion will always be prevalent in the black community. Fashion is a way to bring people from all backgrounds together which is one of the things that makes it so special. However, it is always important to give proper recognition to the creators of certain styles especially when those creators are often disregarded. Streetwear is an influential style, and the original influence is black culture.

Strike Out,

Writer: Kylee Mukeba

Editor: Joey Flanagan

Graphics: Kyle Maguire

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