Thirty thousand crimson Swarovski crystals and five hours later, Doja Cat attended an event in Paris dressed in red from head to toe, literally. While some critics say she looked like a comic book villain, most people marveled at the artistry and creativity involved with the singer’s one-of-a-kind look. It was a reminder of the influence music had and still has on fashion.

The connection between music and fashion is even more pronounced in recent years. Brands turn to musicians for collaborations and endorsements, and musicians have become fashion icons in their own right. Some design their own clothes and build style empires (Looking at you, Rihanna).

DJs also leverage their music platforms to branch out into the fashion industry, either launching their own clothing brands or collaborating with established designers. This trend is evident in the rise of fashion icons such as Diplo, Gou, and Marcelo Burlon, who have successfully made their mark in both music and fashion.

Some people wonder if the foothold DJs have in the fashion industry can influence the space as a whole, perhaps doing some good for the environment at the same time.

In this Business Insider article, Steve Aoki notes that fashion is a form of self-expression and identity. He also emphasizes the need for sustainability in both industries, highlighting the negative impact of fast fashion and the importance of reducing waste. Aoki himself has launched a sustainable clothing line, and he encourages others in the industry to prioritize sustainability as well.

Music and artists’ influence on the industry can be a valuable asset for brands looking to expand their business. For example, major luxury fashion brands like Balenciaga and Balmain created playlists on Apple Music.

The intersection of DJ culture and fashion also influences the language of style for these new collections. In this WWD article, Adrian Joffe, the CEO of Dover Street Market explains that what DJs provide a “different point of view” to an established industry.

Evidently, he is right. Billboard reported that Off-White designers have been collaborating with artists such as German techno artist Boys Noize and South African producer Black Coffee. These new collections sold out generating massive revenue for both the artists and the company. In fact, the working relationship between Boys Noize and designer Virgil Abloh lead to the creation of the “Orvnge” EP, further demonstrating how music and fashion influence each other.

Abloh praises the value of DJ’s as ambassadors for fashion and general consumer brands. He describes DJing as the “art of reading a crowd” and the “perfect art practice related to making fashion.”

But why do so many DJ’s find themselves in the fashion space? Well, there are a few reasons:

To start with, many DJs have a strong sense of personal style and a keen eye for fashion. They’re used to performing on stage and being in the public eye, so they understand the importance of making a statement through their clothing. 

Also, the rise of social media and e-commerce facilitates artists’ launches of their fashion lines and promotes them to a global audience. DJs leverage their large followings on social media to build buzz around their fashion projects.

COVID also impacted the music industry. Cancelling concerts and live events eliminated many musicians and DJs primary income source and creative outlet. However, with live events and concerts on hold, these artists had more time to focus on their fashion projects and build their brands. Many used this time to launch new clothing lines, collaborate with fashion brands, or explore other creative avenues related to fashion, such as designing album artwork or merchandise.

Music and fashion have been deeply intertwined for decades. From the flamboyant costumes of David Bowie, Elton John, Nikki Minaj or Lady Gaga to the iconic looks of the Beatles, Johnny Cash, Prince, Madonna, and Elvis, music and fashion have been used to express individuality, creativity, and identity. Musicians use their style as a form of self-expression, while fashion designers have drawn inspiration from music to create innovative collections. We think the two make beautiful music together.

Sources:

Deejays Are Spinning Themselves Into Fashion Gurus – WWD. (2023). Retrieved 20 March 2023, from https://wwd.com/fashion-news/fashion-features/deejays-doing-fashion-virgil-gou-dijon-burlon-1234651242/

Ten DJs Who are Also Fashion Designers: Steve Aoki, Boys Noize, Mija & More | Billboard – Billboard. (2023). Retrieved 20 March 2023, from https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/10-dj-fashion-designers-steve-aoki-boys-noize-8545809/

DJ Steve Aoki and designer Samata Pattinson dig into the impact music has on the clothes we wear — and what it would take to make sustainable fashion the new ‘It’ look. (2023). Retrieved 20 March 2023, from https://www.businessinsider.com/steve-aoki-influence-of-music-on-fashion-and-sustainability-2020-7