From all black and studded belts to Mary Janes and pink bows, social media and music have taken over fashion. Trends are coming and going faster every day, making fashionmore and more distinctive. But what does your favorite music artist have to do with this?
The Opium Craze
Opium is a record company based in Atlanta, Georgia, founded by popular rapper Playboi Carti. The label has signed artists such as Ken Carson and Destroy Lonely.
“[Playboi] Carti, it can’t be understated how much he has impacted [fashion] …… bringing metal and punk into hip hop culture, even if he’s not truly punk, he definitely brought the style into it.” Dylan Nixon (12) said.
Playboi Carti’s dark, unique looks have taken the internet by storm; evolving into a niche now referred to as ‘Opium.’ Key features of the style include dark colors, statement shoes, jewelry and baggy clothing. Crosstown student, Colton Martin (11) who sells thrifted clothes on resale site DepPop, pays close attention to popular looks and rising trends.
“When I dress like [artists] like Ghost Mountain and Ken Carson … it makes me feel confident,” Martin said. “It makes me feel like I can be sassy and express myself … it’s a really liberating feeling.”
The Opium aesthetic has gained popularity among alternative fashion wearers, especially after going viral on apps such as TikTok. Brands such as New Rocks, Rick Owens and Vivienne Westwood have all become iconic representations of the Opium look.
“I feel most Opium when I wear my platform New Rocks and JNCO pants,” Christian Brothers student Jagger Sudbury (12) said.
Sudbury designs and prints clothing, drawing inspiration from alternative artists such as Ken Carson and Sematary.
However, music-influenced fashion is not all platform sneakers and baggy pants. Some are drawn to more subdued vintage styles and influences.
The Rebirth of Vintage Fashion
90s fashion has made a comeback with muted, neutral colors, vampy makeup and sneakers with everything. Style icons such as Kurt Cobain and Drew Barrymore have shaped this aesthetic, which has grown increasingly popular on social media. Crosstown student, Juniper Street (11) who has been featured in local fashion magazines, is known for her distinct style characterized by muted colors, statement jewelry, and thrifted finds
“A lot of 90s bands have influenced me into a more grunge … style,” Street said. “Most of what I wear is pretty androgynous, and I target my personal style by working with color coordination and accessorizing.”
The growing practice of thrifting has caused a rise in vintage aesthetics. With thrifting being cheap, sustainable and encouraged by many on social media, one of a kind vintage clothing has become popular.
“I’m heavily inspired by many artists from the 70s to the 90s,” Street said. “Especially Stevie Nicks, Gwen Stefani, Shirley Manson, and The Beastie Boys.”
Social media has caused music artists and celebrities to become overwhelmingly influential in the fashion choices of many people, with styles growing more and more distinct.
“If you want to dress that way, and it’s trendy, then you should dress that way,” Nixon said.
