By Simone Robinson
Contrary to popular belief, the most iconic and dominant forces of fashion are not solely women. There is a pool of talented men from all corners of the industry, particularly in music, who have changed the pace of fashion. With their bravery, confidence and musical artistry, and let’s not forget their stylish wardrobes, they created revolutionary moments in music and fashion history.
Michael Jackson’s “Thriller”
Perhaps the most iconic moment in men’s fashion is Dec. 2, 1983, the day Michael Jackson released the video for his song “Thriller.” A trendsetter and lover of all things fashion, Jackson worked with designer Deborah Landis to create a custom red leather jacket to rock with his red pants, white socks and black dancing shoes. Not only did the video catapult into mainstream success, as many of Jackson’s works did, but the red leather jacket became one of the most demanded trends in fashion for the years to follow, becoming iconic in pop culture.
Prince’s “Purple Rain”
Singer-songwriter Prince put the thunder in men’s fashion during June of 1984 when he released his classic “Purple Rain” soundtrack and music video. Amidst the smoke, the rock legend sat on a purple motorcycle while wearing the now iconic purple long-coat with a Victorian-inspired, ruffled white top, matching white gloves and black pants. The daring color continued to be a dominant force in Prince’s wardrobe for his live shows, moving it to the forefront of men’s fashion.
MC Hammer’s “U Can’t Touch This”
MC Hammer added a playful and stylish flare to men’s fashion in his upbeat hip-hop “U Can’t Touch This.” The talented MC released a music video for the popular track in 1990, featuring vibrant colors, high-energy dance choreography and parachute pants, which were later deemed “MC Hammer pants” due to the international success of the video. Since then, the iconic pants have remained in the fashion scene, re-emerging every few years, and even inspiring modern variations like the jogger pants.
Puff Diddy and Mase’s “Mo Money Mo Problems”
Rap moguls Puff Diddy and Mase added a new twist to a popular 90s style in their “Mo Money Mo Problems” video, which was created in honor of Notorious B.I.G. following his death. The duo, styled by the talented June Ambrose, rocked a number of matching sets throughout the futuristic themed video, but the most popular looks were the iconic metallic suits in red, yellow and blue. Later referred to as the “shiny suits,” the style became a prominent red-carpet look amongst celebrities and everyday outfits for normal people.
robinsss12@bonaventure.edu
