Four Fashion Trends Rooted in Black Culture

FASHION REVIEW

By Lauren Stacey
Spectrum Staff Writer

       Black culture has always played a large influence in many different outlets, ranging from fashion, the music industry and even pop culture. Even when Black culture is not always credited as the source of these trends, it’s apparent because for members of the Black community it is not a trend but a lifestyle. Some of the most iconic and well recognized trends in the fashion industry that orientated from Black culture.

       The first trend is roots, no pun intended, but literally our braids and cornrows. Dating all the way back to the beginning of time, African Americans were braiding their hair. The history of our hair is rich and deep. During slavery African Americans went as far as braiding their hair in specific ways to mimic different routes to freedom. In modern time braids and cornrows have definitely been popularized. New and exotic styles have been created to give the sentimental hairstyle a fresh look.

       The next trend that was made popular by the Black community is gold jewelry. I’m sure we all have pictures of family members from back in the day rocking gold name plates to chunky gold earrings. First making a breakthrough in the 90s, gold jewelry become an essential accessory to any outfit. Without your bamboo earrings or gold chain the look just did not seem complete. Of course now with fashion constantly changing the original look of how the gold jewelry was worn has changed but the meaning behind it will forever stay the same.

       Another trend that originated in the Black community is monogram prints. In today’s fashion almost every brand from high-end to department stores using this technique. Having one print or the brands name splattered all over the piece of clothing or the accessory was made popular by well-known designer Dapper Dan. Starting in the streets of New York, he used luxury brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton and put his own twist on it. Ever since his monogram print looks hit the streets, they’ve been seen on the runways ever since.

       Even though sneakers have been around for years, it was not until Michael Jordan launched his Air Jordan line with Nike that sneakers were seen as a form of fashion and not just a utility item. Whether young or old the Jordan sneaker can be recognized by many. With a wide range of different sneakers that Jordan created it took the fashion world by storm. Jordan revolutionized sneakers and help change how the shoe was viewed by the public. Now the sneaker industry is worth billions and continues to grow.

       Without a doubt the Black community is influential in more areas than one. We see parts of our history and culture influencing fashion, music and life in general. Despite credit oftentimes being withheld from Black originators, the Black community knows where the trends and movements came from and will continue to inspire and influence society.