Rap and hip-hop artists are known for their braggadocio, ambition, and, usually, plans for total cultural domination. Rap and hip-hop stars are famous for branching out and attempting to become larger “brands” in and of themselves, putting their name on everything from fragrances to energy drinks.
But one of the most visible ways rap and hip-hop artists have branched out is by launching their own hip-hop clothing lines. Many famous rap and hip-hop artists have tried at hip-hop clothing lines, and many of those hip-hop clothing lines have sputtered out.
Fat Joe, DMX, Outkast, Common, and Jim Jones are among the rap and hip-hop artists who have tried to release such lines, only to have to pull them.
Some rap and hip-hop artists, however, continue to enjoy success with their hip-hop clothing lines. Here are three of the longest-running hip-hop clothing lines owned by rappers.
Diddy’s Sean John: It’s easy to forget that rap and hip-hop mogul Diddy even necessarily owns Sean John, since it’s become such a huge brand in its own right. It’s also achieved success by going beyond the usual hip-hop clothing styles for a somewhat preppier look. The brand has also found much success in fragrance, eyewear, and other accessories.
Jay-Z’s Rocawear: This is the brainchild of Jay-Z, who, along with Diddy, forms the very top upper echelon of rap and hip-hop moguls. Unlike Sean John, though, Rocawear largely goes along with usual hip-hop clothing styles, with many loose fits and large logos.
However, like Sean John, the brand is now huge and offers everything from children’s clothing to accessories. Jay-Z sold the rights to the label in 2007, but still retains his stake in the company and oversees its promotion and marketing.
Insane Clown Posse’s Hatchetgear: Insane Clown Posse is the most underground group on this list. However, this horrorcore duo from Detroit has built a huge following by touring, giving back to its fans, and taking control of all of the Insane Clown Posse releases, merchandise, and related activities.
Because of this, Insane Clown Posse enjoys devoted fans who are eager to show their allegiance by wearing official Insane Clown Posse clothing, sold online and at shows as “Hatchetgear.”
Most of the Insane Clown Posse hip-hop clothing is the usual type of band merchandise, including logo T-shirts. However, beyond this, Insane Clown Posse fans can get dressed up in everything from women’s dresses, to men’s sweatpants, to even babies’ onesies.