Ep421 - Shelby Ivey Christie | A Legacy of Looks: The Role of Black Fashion in Music
Feb 16, 2024
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Shelby Ivey Christie, Fashion & Costume historian, discusses how Black fashion influenced the music industry and became mainstream culture today. They explore fashion's intersection with black culture, the role of black women in hip-hop videos, cultural appropriation in fashion, preserving fashion history, favorite black designers, the importance of internships in the industry, and excitement for the future of fashion and music.
Black fashion has had a significant influence on the music industry and continues to shape mainstream culture today.
Fashion is a means of self-expression for artists, allowing them to communicate their personality, emotions, and cultural background.
There is a strong connection between hip-hop and fashion, with black artists playing a crucial role in introducing luxury brands to new demographics.
Deep dives
Evolution of Black Fashion and Music
The podcast episode explores the history of how the music industry has influenced black fashion and vice versa. It highlights the impact of black artists and costume designers on style for musical artists worldwide. The discussion delves into the intersection of black fashion and music and the role they play in shaping culture. The podcast also emphasizes the importance of articulating how black history intersects with and affects fashion.
Fashion as a Means of Expression and Identity
Fashion is described as a form of self-expression and a way for artists to communicate their personality, emotions, and cultural background. It is emphasized that fashion is not just about clothes, but it can also be a statement about one's political beliefs, values, and culture. The podcast highlights the significance of artists having a sense of ownership in their fashion choices and the impact it has on culture.
Hip-Hop's Influence on Fashion and Vice Versa
The podcast explores the strong connection between hip-hop and fashion, with an emphasis on how the two influence each other. It mentions how black artists have played a pivotal role in introducing luxury brands to new demographics through their music and mentions names like Jay-Z and Missy Elliott. The discussion also touches upon the impact of music videos in showcasing fashion and how music and fashion have evolved over time.
Challenges and Opportunities for Black Designers and Stylists
The podcast acknowledges the challenges faced by black designers and stylists in the fashion industry, as well as the importance of advocating for diverse stories and perspectives. It mentions the need for greater representation and recognition for black talent, both in fashion and costume design. The podcast also highlights the positive shifts in the industry, with more opportunities for collaboration and the exploration of diverse styles and identities.
The Future of Fashion, Music, and Collaboration
The podcast expresses excitement for the post-pandemic world and the potential for artists to bring back theatrical and costume-focused performances. It highlights the potential for collaborations between fashion and music to evolve further, such as artists curating their own track lists and fashion brands exploring innovative partnerships. The podcast also emphasizes the importance of continued discussions, networking, and mentorship to support up-and-coming black talent in the industry.
Shelby Ivey Christie visits Google to discuss the history of how the music industry has influenced Black fashion, how Black artists and costume designers influenced style for musical artists worldwide, and how Black fashion became and continues to be mainstream culture today.
An ardent Fashion & Costume historian, Shelby Ivey Christie has a passion for articulating how Black History intersects and affects the cultural climate, economics, and most importantly, fashion. Her expertise has frequently been called upon to examine fashion through the lens of race, class & culture.