80s Hip-Hop Fashion: 15 Most Iconic Styles

During the 1980s, a decade that transformed the music industry, hip-hop fashion emerged as a force to be reckoned with.

Influenced by African-American culture and street fashion and augmented by the novel beats and rhymes, the 80s hip-hop fashion was groundbreaking – from colors to silhouettes and jewelry styles.

In collab with hip-hop celebs like Run D.M.C., L.L. Cool J, Salt-N-Pepa, Rakim, and N.W.A., brands like FUBU, Adidas, Nike, and Puma defined the 1980s hip-hop fashion and the looks of generations to come.

In this article, we dive into the iconic 80s hip-hop fashion outfits, the celebrities that sported these looks, and the most popular brands.

1. Hip-Hop Workwear Style

Afrika Bambaataa

Not a fashion style by choice, Afrika Bambaataa’s 80s hip-hop look combined classic factory workwear with streetwear apparel.

The hip-hop star became famous for his military-style jacket with epaulets, hoodie underneath, flared pants, and Afro-American accessories.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 80s hip-hop fashion was a mix of streetwear, African-inspired styles, and classic looks with tailored designer suits and gold accessories, with stylistic adaptations and innovations year after year.

The clothing styles of influential artists like Run D.M.C., Whodini, Lisa Lisa, LL Cool J, Queen Latifah, Salt-N-Pepa, and Roxanne Shante, represented the diversity and creativity of the era.

The fashion of the 80s hip-hop scene was a statement of identity and a representation of the community.

The style of Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five and Kurtis Blow, Rakim, MC Lyte, Ice T, and Big Daddy Kane represented the struggles and triumphs of the people and gave them a sense of pride and empowerment.

The 80s hip-hop fashion continues to inspire and influence current styles, such as the resurgence of tracksuits, oversized jackets, name belts, and chunky gold jewelry.

The legacy of the 80s hip-hop fashion lives on and will continue to inspire future generations.