A rap legend, an entertainment maven, and a cultural icon. Tupac Amaru Shakur’s unfathomable impact on culture at large knows no bounds. From his popular character depictions in movies like “Above the Rim”, and “Juice” to his poetic rap lyrics that have influenced the cadence of rap culture beyond it’s no surprise that Tupac’s celebrity would reach to influence the fashion industry at large.
Tupac’s fashion sense was one of the most recognizable elements of his persona. He was often seen wearing oversized t-shirts, baggy jeans, and bandanas. He was also known for wearing black leather jackets, plenty of gold jewelry, and sports paraganglia. Mixing everyday clothing with custom high fashion pieces made from Versace, Cross Colours, Ralph Lauren, and Walker Wear. He was a trendsetter in hip-hop fashion, often wearing bright colors and unique patterns. His fashion style was a reflection of his larger-than-life personality and he quickly became an icon of the hip-hop style.
Below, the Noir Mode looks at some of his style-shaping candid and editorial moments.
“All Eyez on me”
– Tupac- Song: All eyez on me- release Feb. 13, 1996
Championing Black-Owned Brands
Using his star power to magnify black-owned brands, Tupac collaborated with designers such as April Walker of Walker Wear, Karl Kani and TJ Walker, and Carl Jones of Cross Colours to promote their garments and create advertisements sometimes free of charge according to designer Karl Kani.
WalkerWear
Cross Coulors
Karl Kani
California Love at Milan Fashion Week
