Strike a pose: 20 songs about fashion
Trends in the fashion and music worlds can sometimes be synonymous. Whether a fad that comes and goes or a popular '90s trend that makes a comeback with a new twist, a person’s love for music or fashion never goes out of style.
Some music videos have even inspired fashion trends: think Britney Spears's school girl look in "Baby One More Time" or Kanye West's shutter shades in "Stronger." Fashion has always been used to express one's style and creativity, something that musicians know all too well.
From people wearing luxury brands to showing off their best club attire, here are 20 songs sure to make any listener feel good about their fashion sense.
“Suit & Tie” by Justin Timberlake feat. Jay-Z
Justin Timberlake is known for taking some time between each album release, but his 2013 project, The 20/20 Experience, was worth the wait. On the lead single “Suit & Tie,” Timberlake worked with frequent collaborator Timbaland on production and teamed up with Jay-Z to encourage listeners to wear some of their finest threads.
“These Boots Are Made for Walkin’” by Nancy Sinatra
On Nancy Sinatra’s hit song “These Boots Are Made for Walkin,’” the singer uses the shoe as a metaphor as she details her relationship woes. She realizes her partner isn’t doing right by her, and she doesn’t want to seem like she can be treated in any type of way. On the hook, she sings, “These boots are made for walkin’ / And that’s just what they’ll do / One of these days these boots are gonna walk all over you.”
“My Adidas” by Run-D.M.C.
Rap trio Run-D.M.C. always had a signature style, which incorporated tracksuits with Adidas tennis shoes. When they released their 1986 single “My Adidas,” they landed an endorsement deal with the athletic company. The deal was the first of its kind and influenced future brand deals with musicians.
“Fashion" by David Bowie
In 1980, David Bowie released his 14th studio album, Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps), which featured the hit single "Fashion." The title was essential for Bowie's discography since he would do everything with a unique style. On the track, Bowie gives his views on the changes, trends, and nuances of the fashion industry.
“Fashion Killa” by A$AP Rocky
On A$AP Rocky’s single “Fashion Killa,” the rapper details his style while highlighting how his partner can slay anyone with her fashion sense. He doesn’t shy away from name-dropping designer brands such as Balmain, Tom Ford, Versace, and Alexander Wang.
“Fashion!” by Lady Gaga
In 2013, Lady Gaga released her third studio album, Artpop. She teamed up with will.i.am and David Guetta on the groovy track “Fashion!” Gaga beams with confidence in her style and attitude, to a point where she feels like she can take on the world.
“Freakum Dress” by Beyoncé
In 2006, Beyoncé released her critically acclaimed sophomore album, B’Day. She continued to elevate her sound, evident on the Rich Harrison-produced track “Freakum Dress.” On the track, Beyoncé details how her lover has been acting up, so she deserves to have some fun of her own, and the first order of business is pulling out her show-stopping dress.
“I’m Too Sexy” by Right Said Fred
In 1991, pop group Right Said Fred released their debut hit, “I’m Too Sexy.” On the track, the band feels very confident in their sexiness, feeling like models. “I’m Too Sexy” was a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and was sampled by Drake nearly thirty years after its release.
“Change Clothes” by Jay-Z feat. Pharrell
In 2003, Jay-Z released his eighth studio album, The Black Album. He teamed up with The Neptunes on the lead single “Change Clothes,” a hook that highlights how he stays “fresh to death.” The single became a top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100.
“Fashion Week” by Wale feat. G-Eazy
Wale’s 2017 single “Fashion Week” should be a top choice if there was a perfect track to play at a runway show. On the track, Wale admires a woman’s strut and vivacious body and suggests that she should consider modeling.
“Glam” by Christina Aguilera
Christina Aguilera’s 2010 song “Glam” is essential to play as people get ready for their day. On the track, Aguilera encourages listeners to put on makeup, work on their poses, and create their best looks. As she sings on the hook, “Let’s get glam / Don’t let the clothes wear you / Let’s get glam / It’s all an attitude.”
“Fancy” by Drake
In 2010, Drake released his debut studio album, Thank Me Later. He teamed up with T.I. and producer Swizz Beatz on his fourth single, “Fancy.” While the track mentions designer brands such as Gucci, Prada, and Versace, the main theme is Drake recognizing a woman’s confidence and independence.
“Blue Jeans” by Lana Del Rey
Lana Del Rey's 2012 single "Blue Jeans" describes a past lover who reminds her of James Dean. Although she details their break-up, she wants to remind her ex-partner that she'll still love him until the end of time.
“Air Force Ones” by Nelly feat. Kyjuan, Ali, and Murphy Lee.
In 2002, Nelly had everyone wanting to rock a certain pair of Nike shoes. He showed his love for different styles and colors on his hit single "Air Force Ones." The song's impact made the shoes a hot commodity among consumers, and Nike also increased the price.
“Big Hoops (Big The Better)” by Nelly Furtado
On Nelly Furtado’s 2012 single “Big Hoops,” the singer pays homage to ‘90s R&B and hip-hop music. While she references a few ‘90s songs, Furtado also details her fashion style during that era, such as wearing big hoops and wide jeans.
“Blue Suede Shoes” by Elvis Presley
Undoubtedly, people have dealt with other people stepping on or scuffing their shoes, whether it was deliberate or by accident. Elvis Presley knows this all too well on his hit single “Blue Suede Shoes.” Presley details how he'd rather have a person do anything else — like steal his car — than step on his kicks.
“Supermodel (You Better Work)” by RuPaul
RuPaul had everyone wanting to strut on a runway with his hit single “Supermodel (You Better Work.” On the track, he highlights how a model can have all eyes on them because they look good in anything they wear.
“Sharp Dressed Man” by ZZ Top
Rock band ZZ Top knows how to drive women wild on their hit song “Sharp Dressed Man.” On the track, they highlight how dressing in shiny suits and adorning themselves in the finest jewelry makes them more attractive.
“Low” by Flo Rida feat. T-Pain
In 2007, Flo Rida teamed up with T-Pain on his debut single, “Low.” While the song mostly highlights a woman at a dance club catching Flo Rida’s attention, he highlights her style, such as wearing “Apple Bottom jeans and boots with the fur.” “Low” became a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100.
“Phresh Out The Runway” by Rihanna
Rihanna is confident and boastful about her style in her 2012 song "Phresh Out The Runway." She details wearing diamonds, the finest furs, and Givenchy heels on the track. It wouldn't be a surprise if this song were featured in one of Rihanna's Savage X Fenty shows.
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