When it comes to iconic fashion moments for Black people, the 90s and 2000s were definitely a time to remember! From the emergence of hip-hop fashion to the rise of black designers, these decades were filled with moments that left a lasting impact on the fashion industry.

Let's start with hip-hop fashion. The 90s saw the rise of baggy clothing, oversized clothing, and bold, bright colors, all of which became synonymous with hip-hop fashion. Brands like FUBU, Cross Colours, and Karl Kani were all the rage, and even today, these brands are still considered iconic in the world of streetwear. These brands not only provide fashionable clothing but also represented a cultural movement, providing a sense of belonging and empowerment to the black community.

Aaliyah

Another iconic moment for black fashion in the 90s was the emergence of R&B and soul music, and the fashion that came with it. Artists like Aaliyah, TLC, and Destiny's Child all had a unique style that set them apart from the rest. Aaliyah's tomboyish style, TLC's colorful and eclectic outfits, and Destiny's Child's coordinated looks all left a lasting impression on fashion. These artists not only had a great impact on the music industry but also on fashion. They provided a new perspective on how black women could dress and express themselves, breaking free from traditional stereotypes.

TLC photo from Tumblr

In the 2000s, black designers began to make a name for themselves in the industry and their designs were worn by some of the biggest names in entertainment and fashion. Designers like Tracy Reese, Pyer Moss, and Dapper Dan, helped to pave the way for other black designers and opened up more opportunities for black people in the fashion industry. These designers not only provide fashionable clothing but also represented a cultural movement, providing a sense of belonging and empowerment to the black community.

One of the most iconic moments in black fashion from the 2000s was when designer, Dapper Dan, created a custom Gucci jacket for the rapper, LL Cool J. The jacket featured the Gucci logo, but with a twist. Dapper Dan added a black panther in the middle, making it one of the most memorable fashion moments in hip-hop history. This moment not only represented a fashion statement but also a cultural one, where the black panther symbolized the black power movement and the struggle for civil rights.

LL Cool J and Dapper Dan

Fast forward to more recent years and streetwear has become a mainstream trend, thanks in part to black influencers, models, and designers. Brands like Off-White, Supreme, and A Bathing Ape have been popularized by black influencers and models, and have helped to solidify streetwear's place in the fashion industry. These brands not only provide fashionable clothing but also represented a cultural movement, providing a sense of belonging and empowerment to the black community.

Another iconic moment in black fashion from recent years was when Beyoncé wore a dress by the designer LaQuan Smith during her Coachella performance in 2018. The dress, which was adorned with a depiction of the Egyptian queen Nefertiti, was a powerful statement about the history and cultural heritage of black people. This moment not only represented a fashion statement but also a cultural one, where Beyoncé celebrated her African heritage and paid homage to it on a global stage.

Coachella 2018 photo by Amor Magazine

The Black Lives Matter movement has also had an impact on the fashion industry. Many designers and brands have used their platform to raise awareness about racial inequality and to support the Black Lives Matter movement. Brands like Gucci, Prada, and Nike have all released clothing and accessories with the Black Lives Matter slogan, showing their support and solidarity.

All these iconic moments in black fashion over the past decades have helped shape how we view and wear clothing today. From the Harlem Renaissance to contemporary streetwear, black people have always been at the forefront of fashion innovation and cultural expression.