Black is in Fashion

Story and photos by Nia Harrison

From the top of their afros to very bottoms their newly purchased all-white Air Force 1’s, Black people have made a tremendous impact within the fashion and beauty world. Not only are they designers, but they have effortlessly set some the biggest and long lasting trends throughout history. Despite how some of these trends may have been negatively viewed by outsiders, a lot of trendsetters are starting to engage in these fashion movements. Trends once only popular in Black culture have expanded to many other races. There are clothing items and looks that continue to be recycled over and over again. 

To showcase these trends, I decided to hit up a few of MSU students for a Black fashion photoshoot. I gave them a list of items and themes that are popular in Black culture such as: shoe game, hats, nails, hair, oversized, and more. 

1. Sneakerheads

Is it really a good fit if there is not a good pair of sneakers to go with it? It is necessary to have some heat on the feet. The Air Force 1 is one the staple shoes in Black culture. Athleisure shoe brands like Nike and Jordan are widely collected.

2. Bucket hats

Bucket hats come in many different colors, styles, and textures. Something originally used for fishing became a fashion statement in the 90’s. They became popular in hip hop and often associated with artists like LL Cool J and Missy Elliot.

3. Fro’s before bro’s 

Hair that was once labeled as nappy and unprofessional has started a movement to prove that is untrue. Hair that was hated is now being embraced and accepted. Instead of straightening it out, picking it out is the new style. 

4. We all know how the saying goes, the bigger the fro the bigger the… HOOP!

When accessorizing, hoops are the way to go. A pair of gold hoops will never betray a girl. 

5. Track suits

Why run the track when you can wear it? Just like bucket hats,  tracksuits, especially velour, were popular in hip hop. Tracksuits by Baby Phat was a brand popularized in the early 2000’s.

6. Nails

 Almond, stiletto, or coffin shape?  It is never easy to decide your next nail look. The options are limitless. Although black women with long acrylics were once seen as ghetto and tasteless, the trendy nails today are long acrylics with bold colors or crazy designs.

7. Oversized clothing

Go big or go home

Baggy clothing started from many factors within the black community, but as mentioned previously it was popular in hip hop and even R&B. The singer Aaliyah was known for her iconic baggy fits. 

A few more Honorable mentions.

Gradient shades, snapbacks, and durags 

Black is revolutionary, never out of style, fresh, inspiring, creative, beautiful, and in fashion.