Although, we probably wouldn’t go out on the street dressed like this, artists set trends across the world. Fashion can be a major factor in how we identify ourselves, our persona and the music we listen to.
Here are some of the finest examples of music and fashion combining…
The Devil Wears Headphones
World-known cult phenomenon and women’s lingerie retailer, Victoria’s Secret, manages a Spotify account with multiple playlists which are played in its stores. UK fashion retailer, Superdry has the same association, managing an official Superdry Soundcloud account, which features up-and-coming DJs on playlists, played in Superdry stores across the world.
Fashion brands are more than the clothes they sell, they represent a lifestyle. Brands will spend big money on research into the musical interests of their key consumer demographics.
But clothing brands go beyond compiling online playlists, also using endorsements to generate interest in the brand. Examples include Rihanna (Puma), Kanye West (Adidas and Louis Vuitton), and our own Iggy Azalia (Forever 21 and Steve Madden).
So artists influencing fashion trends and brands use music in their communication. Where music can be an extension of clothing, clothing can also be an extension of music.
Think of what it means for a musician to be featured by a fashion designer in-store, in advertising or even a fashion show. This particular element gives the artists mainstream exposure to a wide audience they may not have been able to reach on their own.
Furthermore, it is now also a trend for unknown musicians to bring their music to ‘the man’ by selling albums through small (designer) clothing stores. This seems like a good solution for the disappearance of record stores, and again proves how fashion lends music a helping hand.
A Match Made in Heaven
The influence of music, and maybe even more by the artist themselves, is vast, and has an incredible effect on the world of fashion. It is absolutely clear that the two are forever intervened and cannot be separated. Music and fashion is embedded and linked together through decades and music and fashion statements can be directly associated with a particular era or culture, whether it be Rock, Hip Hop, Pop or Jazz.
Written by Sarah Tramm
