Our culture is constantly taking cues from music of our times. We incorporate music into everything from the way we move to the way we dress. From the glamorized fashion of the music industry to the eclectic streetwear that musicians tend to mix-and-match, their unique style has made its mark on the world of everyday fashion. In this article we dive into how musicians inspire trends and styles that have firmly taken root in the common man’s wardrobe.
1. Streetwear: A Reflection of Music Scene Trends
Streetwear and the music scene have a long, intertwined history. Whether it’s a music trend influencing a certain style of clothing, or a spiritual style creating a unique sound, the two forces always have an interplay.
- Rock ‘n’ Roll changed fashion –just as fashion influenced rock.
- The skater subculture of the California coast was closely linked to hip hop, creating an urban street culture.
- Gothic fashion diverged in London and Los Angeles during the 1970s, coinciding with heavy metal.
Since the 1990s, streetwear fashion has grown to be a personal style that also acknowledges its musical influences. From the iconic skater look of the X-Games to streetwear companies such as Supreme and Huf, music and fashion intermingle to create individual identities and life-long fans.
Streetwear itself is often a reflection of the music genres and scenes at large. Grunge, industrial, and alternative scene looks in the late-1980s and early-1990s are still seen today. Hip-hop fashion in the Mid-1990s and early-2000s rocked hoodies, sneakers, baggy jeans, and bright colors. And then the fashion of the younger punk, indie, and electropop subcultures of the early-2000s to today bloomed. Each style stems from its own subculture, yet remains a reflection of streetwear fashion.
2. How Pop Musicians’ Fashion Statements Influence Everyday Apparel
Pop musicians have always been trend-setters when it comes to fashion. Today’s popular acts are some of the most stylish of all time, and they seem to set trends constantly. Whether they rock the latest streetwear or dress up in designer threads, fans are always coming back for more and looking to replicate the style of their favorite stars.
The most influential style icons in pop music history are the ones that have really embraced their own unique and iconic looks. Legends like David Bowie, Madonna, and Elvis Presley are all major proponents of self-expression and their personal styles evolved and connected with fans in ways that were far previous to their time.
Today, many contemporary musicians emulate these stars by wearing clothes that reflect their individual styles and messages. Many musicians, like Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, and Rihanna, have pushed the boundaries of fashion with edgy looks that become influential and widely copied. These vocalists have captivated the fashion world and now they are inspiring everyday fashion.
- Lady Gaga is famous for her unusual, daring choices in fashion.
- Miley Cyrus typically wears a modern interpretation of classic western style.
- Rihanna has been seen in everything from slinky mini-dresses to oversized streetwear.
Pop musicians’ fashion statements continue to affect mainstream clothing, resulting in design elements and fashion trends that are widely adopted by everyday people. From the newest must-have shoe styles to the creative use of graphics on apparel, pop music fashion trends are everywhere and their influence is unmistakable.
3. From Occasional Catwalks To Perennial Streetwear
From a niche industry to the mainstream, fashion has undergone many transformations in its history. In recent years, one of the most significant of these changes is the shift . While catwalk and haute couture designs remain the epitome of luxury, and an essential part of the industry, the emphasis has increasingly shifted to everyday streetwear.
A key driving force in this new trend has been the rise of social media. Online platforms like Instagram and Pinterest have allowed people to showcase their unique style and share their fashion tips, creating an entirely new global network, and inspiring users to create new and unique styles that often move from the sidewalk into the mainstream.
Streetwear also has the special unique characteristic of being both nonconformist and commercial. Many streetwear brands are still highly sought after for their edgy designs, while others have become fashion staples because of their widespread appeal. Streetwear has come to represent a mix of different cultures and lifestyles, but the commonality between them is the desire to stand out in a crowd and express individual style.
The democratization of fashion continues to create new and exciting trends, which reflect the changing nature of culture and society. From bold colors to daring silhouettes and unexpected fabrics, what is considered fashionable is continuously evolving. Consumers are no longer simply consumers, but creators and curators of their own fashion.
4. Music Style and Its Impact On Modern Fashion
The world of fashion and music are closely entwined, one of the most interesting being the influence fashion has had on music and vice versa. It’s hard to separate the two when it comes to how they affect each other, but music has certainly had a major influence on fashion. Here’s some ways in which music and fashion influence each other:
- Cultural Representation:
Music has always been an important form of expression, and fashion has often been a way for artists to express and communicate their heritage, culture and views on society. As different musical styles have evolved, so too has the fashion that accompanies it – taking on a whole new range of vibes and expressions. - Setting Trends:
Music often sets the trend for fashion, with many musicians creating bold styles for their stage performances and the styles ultimately becoming popular among fans and the general public. From Justin Bieber’s trendsetting outfits to Lady Gaga’s eclectic stage presence – they have all helped to create the trends of today. - Linking to Genres:
Different musical genres and subcultures have a strong association with the fashion that comes with it. Punk rock and urban influenced styles have dominated both the music and fashion industries for years, with each genre spawning its own unique look.
Whether it’s conscious or not, music has had a deep influence on fashion. From hairstyles to clothing, music has shaped the way in which people dress and express themselves through fashion.
5. Reimagining the ‘It’ Outfit: The Interchangeability of Stage and Street Clothes
For many, fashion is cyclical, but nowhere has this been more present than with streetwear fashion and celebrity fashion. From musicians to high-fashion houses like Louis Vuitton, streetwear has become the go-to for contemporary outfits. This new trend of the “it” outfit has blurred the lines between celebrity stage attire and everyday clothing. With fashion’s increasing interconnectivity and ever-changing silhouettes, it’s easier than ever to pick up inspiration from multiple sources.
At the center of fashion’s debate between streetwear and high fashion are the “it” outfits. These dressy-meets-casual combinations bring together formal pieces and streetwear elements for a look that can be pulled off anytime. By leveraging the interchangeability of both street and celebrity fashion, fashionistas can easily mix and match clothing items for an effortlessly stylish look.
To achieve the perfect “it” outfit, begin with a basic building block such as a plain T-shirt or long sleeve shirt. From there, have fun mixing up textures, prints, and fabrics to achieve a look that’s all your own. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Play With Silhouettes: Balance oversized clothing with slim fits, and pair long overcoats with high-waisted jeans.
- Mix and Match Prints: Mix busy prints with solid colors, and pair streetwear graphics with bold monochromes.
- Layer to Your Advantage: Layer pieces with different textures and materials like lace, leather, and sheer fabrics, to create visual interest.
With the lines between stage and streetwear blurring more and more every day, it’s easier than ever to turn everyday clothing into runway ready looks. With a little creativity, anyone can transform simple clothing pieces into stylish, one-of-a-kind ensembles. Try it out by experimenting with the “it” outfit and you’ll find yourself turning heads wherever you go.
6. Tailor Made: Music-Inspired Wardrobes to Suit Any Mood
Ready to find your perfect look? Picking out a wardrobe tailored to your personality that reflects your favorite music can be a great way to spice up your look. Here, we will explore all the options you have for creating your custom music-inspired wardrobe.
Mix and Match: Not feeling the whole outfit? Change it up! Mixing and matching clothing items can add different textures, styles, and bursts of colorful with unique prints. From the latest trends to classic pieces, you can put together a look that expresses your musical style.
Design: Want something more unique? Design your own! There are an array of products where you can upload an image or artwork to customize your wardrobe. You can even select from an array of original t-shirts and items specifically tailored to the music you love.
- Fashion Labels: Show your fandom with branded clothing and accessories from your favorite bands.
- Personalized: Look out for customized apparel with your name or other personal details.
- Vintage Treasures: Snag some of that vintage style with classic one-of-a-kind pieces.
Don’t let what your wear be an afterthought. Invest in a wardrobe that speaks to your style in a manner that connects you to your music. Whether you’re into street style or formal wear, there’s something to inspire every outfit. So, grab those CDs, hum along to your favorite tune, and get ready to create your own personalized look!
The age-old musing between art and fashion has been widely explored, and it is no surprise that musicians have been inspiring street styles for generations. From basic tees, to attention grabbing leather jackets, many of today’s looks have roots in our favorite star’s wardrobe. What we wear may be a reflection of who we are, but sometimes it’s easy to forget that our style also reflects the musicians we admire.
