Who Was the First Rapper to Wear Versace?

Rap and fashion have always had a close relationship, with rappers often setting the trends when it comes to streetwear. One brand that has been prominently featured in hip-hop culture is Versace. But who was the first rapper to wear Versace?

Gianni Versace

First, let’s talk about the designer behind the brand. Gianni Versace was an Italian fashion designer who founded the Versace company in 1978. He became known for his bold and colorful designs, often featuring intricate prints and gold accents.

The History of Versace in Hip-Hop

Versace gained popularity in hip-hop culture during the 1990s, when rappers began to name-drop the brand in their lyrics. The Notorious B.I.G., for example, famously rapped about “Versace shades” in his song “Hypnotize.”

But it wasn’t just about mentioning the brand in their music – rappers also began to incorporate Versace into their fashion choices.

The First Rapper to Wear Versace?

While it’s difficult to say definitively who was the first rapper to wear Versace, there are a few early pioneers who helped popularize the brand within hip-hop culture.

One of these pioneers is believed to be Tupac Shakur. In a photoshoot for Interview magazine in 1996, Tupac can be seen wearing a green and gold Versace shirt.

Another early adopter of Versace was The Notorious B. In his music video for “Hypnotize,” he wears a black and gold Medusa head shirt from the brand.

Other Rappers Who Wore Versace

Of course, Tupac and Biggie weren’t the only rappers wearing Versace during this time period. Other notable examples include:

  • Jay-Z, who wore a Versace suit to the 1998 Grammy Awards
  • Lil’ Kim, who famously wore a purple jumpsuit from the brand to the 1999 MTV Video Music Awards
  • Missy Elliott, who wore a custom-made Versace ensemble to the 2001 MTV Video Music Awards

The Legacy of Versace in Hip-Hop

Today, Versace remains a popular choice among rappers and hip-hop artists. The brand’s bold aesthetic and luxury appeal continue to resonate with the genre’s fashion sensibilities.

But it’s not just about the clothes – Versace has also collaborated with musicians such as Migos and Bruno Mars on limited-edition capsule collections. These partnerships help solidify the brand’s place within hip-hop culture and ensure that its legacy will continue for years to come.

In conclusion, while it’s hard to pinpoint exactly who was the first rapper to wear Versace, there are several early pioneers who helped popularize the brand within hip-hop culture. Today, Versace remains an important part of rap fashion and continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike.