Centuries ago, fashion was often thought to be a superficial construct of the highest class. However, during the 1980s, an emerging subculture in America would leave a lasting impression on its own narrative of fashion. The iconic hip-hop groups Run-DMC and TLC have shaped a lasting phenomenal in the fashion industry. From ushering in signature style trends to heavily influencing the culture of streetwear, these two legendary groups have solidified an undeniable and indelible impact on the modern day fashion world.
1. The Timeless Swagger: Run-DMC’s Revolutionary Hip-Hop Fashion Revolution
In the mid-1980s, Run-DMC changed the face of hip-hop with their revolutionary fashion revolution. The trio created a timeless swagger that embraced old-school attitude and their own contemporary lyricism to provide a look and sound unlike anything that had come before. Here, we take a look at how they paved the way for future generations of MCs and musicians alike.
The Legendary Look
Run-DMC’s look is iconic for its simplicity and boldness; they made their statement with basics like ripped jeans, leather and Adidas sneakers. They popularized black baseball hats and tracksuits, and masterfully mixed upscale conversations with street-level clothing. This look was a reflection of the trio’s own self-confidence, and it represents an entire era of hip-hop.
Making an Impact
- Layering of pickup-style jackets and sweats.
- Incorporating jerseys, tracksuits, and golden necklaces.
- Accessorizing with rope chains and bulky sneakers.
- Repurposing fashion statements from the 70s.
The influence of Run-DMC’s style is still seen today. Rappers like Jay-Z, Nelly and Kanye West have adopted their signature look and modified it to their own unique flair. But even though they take on modern street styles, the influence of Run-DMC’s swagger is unmistakable.
The Legacy
It’s clear that Run-DMC made a lasting impact on hip-hop fashion and beyond. Their unique style has become a timeless look that has been embraced by many throughout the years, demonstrating the impact of their legacy. For years to come, the sound and style of Run-DMC will continue to influence music and fashion.
2. TLC: Unleashing a Wave of Empowering Fashion Statements in Hip-Hop
Started in 1991 by two visionary sisters, TLC have been making waves in hip-hop, while breaking down barriers of sexism and racism with their outside-the-box fashion and music. They established themselves as trendsetters, turning the typical idea of what hip hop looks like in the 90s on its head. Throughout their career, the trio has lay down their roots in promoting self-image and making strides in freeing the female voice within the industry.
Equally infusing spunk and confidence in their style of costumes, TLC created an indelible mark with their multi-cultural look, inspiring millions of hip-hop lovers worldwide. They were the first to manipulate the idea of acceptable dress in the genre, pushing boundaries for women and nurturing a unique charisma. Channelling bold colors, international vibes, and embracing their sexuality, their ensembles often caught the spotlight of the industry’s eye.
- The Artist’s Appeal: TLC’s warm-hearted attitude towards flaunting their street-inspired style backed up their take on hip-hop and feminism.
- Flaunting Freedom: From electric blues and constitutional reds to denim jackets and short clothes, TLC’s wardrobe proved that hip-hop had evolved. They used fashion to express their individualism and picked pieces that reflected their own cultural identity.
- A New Generation: By reclaiming their femininity, the group inspired millions of other female hip-hop artists who also sought to express their unique voice.
TLC’s influence on hip-hop culture has been vital in redefining the fashion and the message of the genre. With their use of bright colors, unique patterns and inspiring lyrics, this trio has truly revolutionized the industry. Their success has been a global force for female empowerment and they have allowed women to compete in the rap game on a level playing field.
Not to be forgotten, TLC is due the credits for unbolting a grand gateway of female power in the hip-hop world. With their out-of-the-box fashion statements and riveting music, the trio opened up a path to the taking of center stage for female hip hop artists.
3. Breaking Boundaries: Run-DMC and TLC’s Enduring Influence on Streetwear Trends
From Run-DMC to TLC, hip-hop culture has maintained a strong influence over fashion for decades. No artist has been more influential in changing the face of street style than these two groups: Run-DMC and TLC.
In the early 1980s, Run-DMC made their mark with their revolutionary music — a fusion of rap with elements of rock; they became the world’s first hip-hop group to be signed to a major record label. But it was their fashion choices that really set them apart. Their signature style — that of leather coats, baseball caps, and tracksuits — instantly found followers and would continue to shape the look of the streets for years to come.
But it was the group TLC who truly brought streetwear into the mainstream. With their colorful prints and daring style, TLC stood out from the crowd. Their signature looks included brightly colored windbreakers, baggy pants, and graphic t-shirts. But in addition to their clothes, it was their attitude and confidence that also set them apart and influenced the world of fashion as well.
Their influence has been far-reaching: their styles have been adapted and embraced by fashion designers, artists, and everyday people alike. Strains of the original look have been maintained throughout the years and are evident today in the form of tracksuits, streetwear brands, and even street art. All of which testify to the enduring legacy of Run-DMC and TLC.
The Impact of Run-DMC and TLC on Streetwear Trends:
- Introduced the look of leather coats, baseball caps, and tracksuits.
- Brought colorful prints and daring style to the mainstream.
- Influenced streetwear brands, music artists, and street art.
- Set the bar for fashion and attitude.
4. Pioneers of Hip-Hop Style: Run-DMC and TLC’s Unforgettable Impact on Fashion Culture
Run-DMC and TLC had a major influence on how hip-hop was seen and felt in the fashion world. The two groups of musicians brought together street style with their music, creating an unforgettable image of hip-hop fashion in the process.
Run-DMC had a unique sense of style that marked the beginning of hip-hop fashion. With their signature black leather jackets, thick gold chains, and Adidas tracksuits, they were the perfect example of street style. They also used signature hats and fedoras to further emphasise their style.
TLC became a fashion trendsetter in their own right. They brought a feminine style to hip-hop fashion with their bright colours, oversized jackets, and statement jewellery. They were known for their custom-made apparel which was often replicated by their fans.
Both Run-DMC and TLC had a strong impact on the world of fashion. Their styles were bold, daring, and refreshing. Their fashion was a mix of traditional street style and the latest trends of the time. They paved the way for the current generation of hip-hop fashion, and their influence can still be seen today.
Here are some of the ways Run-DMC and TLC’s unforgettable impact on fashion culture can be seen today:
- The trend of oversized and exaggerated jackets.
- The use of bright, neon colors and statement prints.
- The use of accessories such as hats, scarves, and jewellery.
- The use of custom-made apparel.
Run-DMC and TLC helped to shape the hip-hop fashion we see today. Their unique sense of style has stood the test of time, and is still seen in the current fashion trends. It’s a testament to their impact that they are still seen as pioneers of hip-hop style and fashion culture.
Run-DMC and TLC have undeniably left a lasting mark on Hip-Hop culture, as their influence can be seen and felt in fashion trends that still reign today. Though many of our favorite Hip-Hop fashion legends have left us, their style, their spirit and their presence will remain in our hearts and wardrobes for years to come.
