Tuesday Open Thread: How African Americans Influence Fashion Trends

Good Morning POU! We take a look at how WE continue to influence fashion trends.

1960s & 70s: The Civil Rights Movement

The 60s and 70s involved long periods of political unrest with activist groups formed to promote the equal rights of African Americans. The most influential of them was the Black Panther Party, an organization founded in Oakland, California in 1966, challenging police brutality around the country. Founders Bobby Seale and Huey Newton decided on a uniform of blue shirts, black pants, black leather jackets and black berets in contrast to the military’s green.

During this period, the ‘Black Is Beautiful’ movement also emerged, disrupting the idea that White features defined traditional beauty. Black men and women were encouraged not to bleach their skin or straighten their hair, re-empowering the Afro as a symbol of political activism. Activist and former Black Panther, Angela Davis, is noted as the embodiment of fashion surrounding this period, representing natural hair, turtleneck sweaters and gold chains.

The uniform sparked the beginning of fashion’s role with activism, paving the way for the bohemian protest style of the 1970s. In 2016, the Black Panther uniform was reworked into Beyoncé’s Super Bowl 50 performance, paying tribute to Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement.

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The underlying theme of ‘urban militant’ style continues to be present on the runway and within streetwear while staples such as black leather jackets and slogan tees are ingrained in our wardrobes. In the current turbulent climate, these items hold particular relevance and continue to be worn as symbols of power.