The Relation Between Music and Fashion

Music and fashion have always been closely related, with both affecting and changing each other over several decades. From the flamboyant outfits of pop icons to the rebellious leather jackets of punk rock, the worlds of music and style are continually evolving, influencing culture and setting trends. 

Fashion as a Musical Expression of Culture

The social, political, and cultural messages conveyed by music are often reflected in fashion. For example, grunge music popularized combat boots, torn jeans, and flannel shirts in the 1990s. This represents a culture of dissatisfaction and rejection of the refined mainstream. Hip-hop style also conveys resiliency, cultural pride, and socioeconomic standing. Fans participate in the cultural conversation that the music fosters by dressing in various ways in addition to identifying with the music.

Music Festivals as Stages for Fashion

Fashion has become as much a part of musical events like Coachella as the music itself. With its varied accessories, bold wardrobe selections, and unconventional designs, festival fashion has evolved into a distinct genre. Fans use music festivals as a stage for self-expression, dressing in daring and unusual ways that are influenced by the performers they adore. This has led to a feedback loop in which designers include festival-inspired designs in their collections, and festivalgoers influence mainstream fashion.

Fashion as Music’s Visual Language

Before they ever strike a note, musicians can express their identity and musical genre through fashion. For instance, hip-hop musicians of the 1980s and 1990s created a striking visual language that reflected the street culture and toughness of the music by dressing in baggy clothing, athletic wear, and bulky gold chains. In the 1970s, punk rock musicians embraced leather, spikes, and shredded apparel as a symbol of their defiance of the accepted norms. In music, fashion serves as a statement, expressing the ideals, character, and artistic direction of the performer.