What Did Hip Hop Wear In The 80S?

Introduction:

The 1980s marked a defining era for hip hop culture, where fashion played a pivotal role in shaping its identity. From iconic sneakers to oversized clothing and bold accessories, hip hop attire transcended the boundaries of music and fashion, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to resonate today. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key elements of 80s hip hop fashion, exploring the significance, evolution, and cultural impact of each piece.

1. Breakdancing Roots: Tracksuits, Baggy Clothes, and Kangol Hats

Significance:
The origins of hip hop fashion can be traced back to the breakdancing scene of the 1980s. Breakdancers required loose and comfortable clothing that allowed for unrestricted movement, leading to the adoption of tracksuits, baggy shirts, and wide-leg pants. The Kangol hat, a signature accessory, became synonymous with the culture, providing both style and anonymity.

Evolution:
Initially, tracksuits were simple and utilitarian, but over time they evolved into more stylish and elaborate designs, often featuring bold colors and patterns. Baggy clothing became increasingly oversized, creating a distinctive silhouette that symbolized rebellion and individuality. The Kangol hat transitioned from its military origins to become a fashion staple, representing breakdancing’s urban roots.

2. Sneaker Culture: Adidas Superstars, Nike Air Force 1s, and Converse Chuck Taylors

Significance:
Hip hop and sneakers have an unbreakable bond, with certain models becoming iconic symbols of the culture. The Adidas Superstars, with their distinctive shell toe and serrated stripes, were the go-to choice for breakdancers and rappers alike. Nike Air Force 1s, the first basketball shoe to feature the revolutionary Air cushioning system, gained widespread popularity within the hip hop community. Converse Chuck Taylors, with their timeless design and affordability, became another staple sneaker.

Evolution:
Sneakers in the 80s were more than just footwear; they were a form of self-expression. Customizing and personalizing sneakers became a common practice, with artists adding their own designs and logos. The release of new colorways and limited-edition models further fuelled the sneaker obsession, creating a thriving collector’s market.

3. Accessories: Gold Chains, Nameplates, and Boomboxes

Significance:
Hip hop fashion in the 80s was incomplete without its signature accessories. Gold chains, symbolizing wealth and status, were worn prominently by rappers and breakdancers. Nameplates, often featuring the wearer’s name or stage moniker, added a personalized touch. Boomboxes, large portable stereos, were essential for blasting hip hop music in public spaces, becoming a defining symbol of the culture.

Evolution:
Gold chains grew in size and extravagance, with rappers competing to outdo each other with their lavish jewelry collections. Nameplates became more elaborate, incorporating diamonds, gemstones, and unique designs. Boomboxes evolved technologically, with features like auto-reverse and dual cassette decks, and became a symbol of hip hop’s growing popularity.

4. Colorful and Patterned Clothing: Windbreakers, Color Blocking, and African Prints

Significance:
Hip hop fashion in the 80s was characterized by its use of bold colors and eye-catching patterns. Windbreakers, lightweight jackets with a signature zipper design, were popular for their versatility and style. Color blocking, the strategic use of contrasting colors in clothing, became a defining trend, creating a vibrant and energetic look. African prints, inspired by the continent’s rich cultural heritage, were incorporated into hip hop fashion, adding a distinctive ethnic flair.

Evolution:
Windbreakers evolved from their original utility purpose to become fashionable pieces, featuring bright colors, bold graphics, and unique patterns. Color blocking became more sophisticated, with designers experimenting with different color combinations and geometric shapes. African prints gained widespread acceptance and became a staple in hip hop wardrobes, representing the culture’s global reach.

5. Streetwear and DIY Culture: Graffiti, Skateboarding, and Homemade Clothing

Significance:
Hip hop fashion in the 80s drew inspiration from other subcultures, such as graffiti and skateboarding. Graffiti artists incorporated their street art into clothing designs, creating unique and personalized pieces. Skateboarders adopted baggy clothing and sneakers as their uniform, which was later adopted by hip hop culture. DIY (Do-It-Yourself) fashion became a defining characteristic, with individuals creating their own clothing and accessories to express their creativity.

Evolution:
Graffiti-inspired clothing evolved into full-fledged streetwear brands, with designers showcasing their art on T-shirts, hoodies, and other garments. Skateboard fashion became increasingly influential, with brands like Thrasher and Stüssy gaining popularity within the hip hop community. DIY fashion remained a vital aspect, allowing individuals to customize their clothing and create one-of-a-kind pieces.

Summary

The fashion of hip hop in the 80s was a vibrant and eclectic expression of the culture’s identity, values, and creativity. From the iconic sneakers and tracksuits to bold accessories and colorful patterns, each element played a significant role in defining the era’s unique style. Hip hop fashion transcended its musical origins, becoming a cultural phenomenon that continues to influence contemporary fashion and style.

Related Questions and Answers

1. What was the significance of breakdancing in hip hop fashion?
Answer: Breakdancing’s emphasis on freedom of movement led to the adoption of loose and comfortable clothing, such as tracksuits, baggy shirts, and Kangol hats, which became defining elements of hip hop fashion.

2. Which sneaker brands were most popular in hip hop during the 80s?
Answer: Adidas Superstars, Nike Air Force 1s, and Converse Chuck Taylors were the most iconic sneaker brands in hip hop during the 1980s.

3. How did gold chains become a symbol of hip hop culture?
Answer: Gold chains were worn by rappers and breakdancers as a representation of wealth and status, becoming a defining accessory for the culture.

4. What was the role of color blocking in hip hop fashion?
Answer: Color blocking, the use of contrasting colors in clothing, became a popular trend in hip hop fashion, creating a vibrant and energetic look that symbolized the culture’s creativity.

5. How did graffiti influence hip hop clothing designs?
Answer: Graffiti artists incorporated their street art into clothing designs, creando piezas únicas y personalizadas that reflected the culture’s urban roots and artistic expression.