Even in music, fashion is a popular and recurring topic. Artists use fashion as a metaphor for self-expression, identity, and individualism. The songs they weave are cultural commentaries reflecting our fascination with fashion and style.
Not only that. Fashion influences music and vice versa. Designers draw inspiration from these songs. Artists, on the other hand, become trendsetters and influencers.
Today, we are presenting you with 25 of the best songs about fashion. Have fun reading!
1. “Fashion Killa” By A$AP Rocky
Let’s start the list with a song with “fashion” in the title. In 2013, A$AP Rocky released “Fashion Killa.” This song explores the connection between fashion, individuality, and self-expression.
The lyrics reveal the narrator’s attraction to women who use fashion as a form of self-expression. They reference iconic brands, reflecting the artist’s fascination with the fashion industry.
The music video depicts a woman who is described as a “fashion killa.” It underscores the empowerment and confidence that fashion can instill.
2. “Blue Jeans” By Lana Del Rey
The 2012 single “Blue Jeans” may appear like a homage to a “blue jeans, white shirt”-donning guy. But this track by Lana Del Rey uses fashion as a metaphor to express deep emotional connections and complex relationships.
The song tells the story of a woman’s relationship with a former lover whom she compares to the iconic James Dean. He has left her in search of a fresh start despite her pleas not to leave her.
In terms of fashion, the line “Blue jeans, white shirt” evokes a simple, timeless style associated with James Dean. He starred in Rebel Without A Cause as Jim Stark, who appears cool in his pair of jeans and a white T-shirt.
3. “These Boots Are Made For Walkin'” By Nancy Sinatra
The 1966 classic “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'” by Nancy Sinatra is up next. This track uses fashion, specifically boots, to symbolize feminine power and independence.
The boots in the song are not just a fashion statement. They represent the narrator’s strength to leave a man who’s playing with her feelings. They also showcase her ability to take control and walk away from a situation that doesn’t serve her well.
In the 1960s, when the song was released, this was a bold statement. Women were beginning to assert their independence and break free from traditional roles.
4. “Suit & Tie” By Justin Timberlake Ft. Jay-Z
Seeing someone wearing the formal attire of a suit and tie makes you think of sophistication and confidence. Justin Timberlake and Jay-Z’s “Suit & Tie” is an ode to the joys of being well-dressed and handsome.
The song highlights the power of a good outfit to enhance one’s personality and convey a sense of class. It also celebrates the act of dressing up itself. The lyrics portray it as an exciting part of expressing love and affection.
This celebration of dressing well can be considered a commentary on fashion’s role in our social lives. It also highlights the importance of personal presentation.
5. “Sharp Dressed Man” By ZZ Top
Everyone would agree that someone who is impeccably dressed gains attention. In “Sharp Dressed Man,” ZZ Top uses fashion to comment on the social perceptions associated with being well-dressed.
The lyrics suggest that a man who is dressed well can easily gain the admiration of people around him, especially women. This is addressed in the lines “They come runnin’ just as fast as they can / ’cause every girl crazy ’bout a sharp-dressed man.”
In essence, “Sharp Dressed Man” is an expression of wealth and elegance. It tells listeners that style is more than just clothes. It’s an important part of our identity and how we want to be perceived by others.
6. “Blue Suede Shoes” By Elvis Presley
Released in 1956, Elvis Presley‘s “Blue Suede Shoes” is still popular. Here, the song focuses on a particular item of fashion — blue suede shoes — as a central metaphor.
The lyrics portray the shoes as a symbol of individuality, personal style, and even a touch of rebellion. The narrator values his shoes above all else and asks others not to step on them. This reflects the importance of personal style to him.
In the song, the blue suede shoes are not just footwear. They are an extension of the narrator’s personality and speak a lot about their uniqueness.
7. “My Adidas” By Run-D.M.C.
From the title alone, we can tell what Run-D.M.C.‘s “My Adidas” is about. This song has played a pivotal role in fashion, particularly in the emergence of the hip-hop sneaker culture and streetwear.
Without a doubt, “My Adidas” is an homage to this brand of sneakers that the members were fond of wearing. They celebrate their Adidas shoes as part of their style and identity.
But these shoes are more than just footwear. They represent a way of life and are an integral part of hip-hop’s visual aesthetic.
8. “She’s In Fashion” By Suede
Up next is a song that uses the world of fashion to critique societal norms and pressures. “She’s in Fashion” by Suede is about a woman who is a prominent figure in the fashion industry.
This woman is depicted as the epitome of beauty and style. By saying, “She’s the color of a magazine,” it means she is the standard of fashion. This reflects how fashion trends are dictated by media and popular figures.
But beneath the surface, the song shines a light on the pressures and superficiality associated with being “in fashion.” The title itself alludes to the pressure to conform to trends.
9. “Freakum Dress” By Beyoncé
From Beyoncé‘s album, B’Day comes the track “Freakum Dress.” Released in 2006, the song celebrates the power of fashion as a tool for self-expression and empowerment.
From what we can glean from the lyrics, a freakum dress is an outfit a woman wears that makes her feel attractive or powerful. The narrator encourages women to wear their freakum dress when they want to assert their presence and command attention.
In essence, “Freakum Dress” suggests that fashion can be used as a weapon. It can also be utilized as a way to regain control, especially in situations when they feel undermined or neglected.
10. “Fashion Beats” By Black Eyed Peas
In “Fashion Beats,” Black Eyed Peas intertwines the concepts of music, dance, and fashion. They make a case about fashion being an integral part of the clubbing culture.
The narrator portrays that fashion, like music, is a form of self-expression. This is addressed in the line “Imma club rocker, that’s my personality.” This suggests that fashion reflects a person’s personality and even their preferred music or lifestyle.
In addition, “Fashion Beats” shows that fashion trends can be influenced by the music and dance scenes. This is particularly true in the clubbing scene. The title itself suggests a connection between the rhythm of music (beats) and fashion trends.
11. “Fashion” By David Bowie
Singer-songwriter David Bowie uses fashion as an allegory in his 1980 song “Fashion.” The song critiques societal conventions and behaviors.
Surprisingly, the song mentions fashion, but it does not talk about clothing trends. Rather, it talks about the patterns of social behavior and conformity.
Certain lines in the song suggest the cyclical and repetitive nature of societal trends. For instance, “people from bad homes do again and again.”
At its core, “Fashion” explores the concept of fashion that is beyond clothing. It focuses on the societal and behavioral aspects that the term encompasses.
12. “Dedicated Follower Of Fashion” By The Kinks
Moving on, we have a satirical song poking fun at the contemporary British fashion scene of the 1960s. “Dedicated Follower of Fashion” by The Kinks is about a person who is obsessed with following the latest fashion trends.
This person loves all the flattery he receives from the people around him. So he continues to follow the fads and trends such as polka-dots and stripes. And he’s always in discotheques and parties in the company of people like him.
Unfortunately, despite looking his best, “his clothes are loud / but never square.” His fashion fixation is so intense that “it will make or break him.”
13. “Big Hoops (Bigger The Better)” By Nelly Furtado
Fashion will not be complete without accessories. In the case of Nelly Furtado‘s “Big Hoops (Bigger the Better),” the song highlights the importance of hoop earrings.
The lyrics show how fashion accessories such as earrings can be used to express individuality and confidence. Here, the big hoop earrings represent a bold and daring attitude. The bigger the earrings, the more noticeable they are. It mirrors the narrator’s desire to stand out.
As “Big Hoops” showed us, earrings are a statement of identity and personal style. They reflect the wearer’s sense of self-assurance and willingness to be different.
14. “Glam” By Christina Aguilera
Another song that celebrates fashion and glamor as forms of self-expression is Christina Aguilera‘s “Glam.” This is her tribute to the world of high fashion.
For the narrator, fashion is more than just clothing or trends. It’s the embodiment of a particular way of life. For her, it’s deeply personal and intertwined with her identity, as addressed in the line “Live it, love it, breathe it, work it.”
“Glam” encourages listeners to embrace fashion and glamor as tools for self-empowerment and individuality. It captures the excitement, creativity, and self-expression inherent in the fashion world.
15. “Fancy” By Drake
In the 2010 song “Francy,” Drake highlights the world of luxury and high-end style. The song celebrates women who take pride in their appearance and enjoy the finer things in life.
In the lyrics, the narrator mentions elements of fashion and beauty. These include expensive clothing, manicures, and well-done hair. These items underscore the attention to detail and effort that the women Drake admires put into their looks.
The line “Oh, you fancy, huh?” is a nod to a woman who takes care of her appearance. Hence, this track is a tribute to women who embrace fashion as a form of self-expression.
16. “Fashion!” By Lady Gaga
Singer-songwriter Lady Gaga is no stranger to fashion. And it’s no surprise she has a song that is an ode to the fashion world and its significance in her life. We’re talking about “Fashion!” from her Artpop album.
Here, fashion goes beyond clothing. The fashion referred to in the lyrics is a form of art and self-expression. The lines “Looking good and feeling fine” and I feel on top of the world in my fashion” testify to fashion’s vital role in her identity.
Lady Gaga is known for her unique fashion choices, and this song captures that sentiment. It celebrates fashion as a way to stand out and make a statement.
17. “Style” By Taylor Swift
While Taylor Swift‘s “Style” does not focus on fashion, it does use fashion-related imagery to tell a story about a complex relationship. Here, style is a metaphor for a relationship that never goes “out of style.”
The lyrics describe the narrator’s love interest with a “James Dean daydream look.” This refers to the iconic style of James Dean, known for his timeless and rebellious appeal. He’s also described as having “slicked-back hair.” This is a fashion aesthetic associated with a cool and confident persona.
In a broader sense, “Style” can be considered a commentary on how relationships can be like fashion. Both are constantly changing and sometimes challenging. But certain elements remain timeless.
18. “Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend” By Marilyn Monroe
You’ll agree that “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” by Marilyn Monroe is as much about fashion as it is about the allure of diamonds. This is well-known for Monroe’s iconic pink dress, a symbol of classic Hollywood glamor.
The witty lyrics follow the story of Lorelei Lee from the movie Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. Lee is a materialistic woman who believes in the enduring value of diamonds over the fleeting nature of relationships. Her attire even reflects that thinking. Her stunning pink gown is accessorized with glittering diamond jewelry.
Beyond the dress, the idea the title imparts has influenced fashion trends. It reinforces the notion that diamonds are a luxury and staple of high-end fashion.
19. “Good Golly Miss Molly” By Mitch Ryder & The Detroit Wheels
The high-energy rock-and-roll “Good Golly Miss Molly” by Mitch Ryder & The Detroit Wheels does not explicitly discuss fashion. However, it contributes to the cultural context in which fashion exists.
The lyrics describe a fashionable woman named Miss Molly. She wears a hat, a pair of shades, high-heeled shoes, and pieces of jewelry. For him, she is “the finest girl alive,” and everyone around her seems to think so.
The narrator calls her a “devil with the blue dress on” who commands attention wherever she goes. The blue could symbolize her vibrant and free-spirited personality.
20. “Phresh Out The Runway” By Rihanna
Released in 2012, Rihanna’s “Phresh Out the Runway” tells so much about her status in the music industry and her influence in fashion. It represents her unique style and her confidence in expressing herself through her outfits.
The title itself is a nod to the fashion industry, where the models strut their stuff on the runway. To say that she’s “phresh” out of it, the narrator implies that she’s at the forefront of fashion. She is among those who set trends and push boundaries.
Rihanna performed this song at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in 2012. It further cements the connection between the song and the fashion world.
21. “Supermodel (You Better Work)” By RuPaul
Being a supermodel means you’re moving into a very competitive industry. And it means working hard. RuPaul‘s “Supermodel (You Better Work)” reflects this sentiment.
The lyrics are packed with fashion references, runway jargon, and an overall message of empowerment. The phrase “You better work” reflects what supermodels should do, knowing how competitive the world of fashion is. It tells them to put their best foot forward and excel in whatever they do.
In essence, “Supermodel (You Better Work)” is about the hard work one needs when working in the fashion industry. At the same time, it’s about the transformative power of fashion and the importance of self-expression.
22. “Fashion Week” By Wale Ft. G-Eazy
Up next is a song directly referencing the world of fashion and the models central to the industry. “Fashion Week” by Wale, featuring G-Eazy, was released in 2017 from Wale’s album Shine.
The song mentions Kendall Jenner and Jourdan Dunn, two high-profile models. The narrator shows a fascination for these models and the fashion industry in general.
The title, “Fashion Week,” refers to the global events where designers showcase their latest collections. These events epitomize the pinnacle of fashion trends and style. Through this song, Wale makes a connection between his music and this high-profile event.
23. “High Fashion” By Roddy Ricch
From Roddy Ricch‘s album Please Excuse Me for Being Antisocial comes “High Fashion.” Released in 2019, it features Mustard and explores the world of luxury brands and high-end fashion.
In the song, these symbolize success and personal growth. The narrator is able to showcase his wealth and status through designer labels.
The title itself depicts an association with luxury fashion brands, often seen as a symbol of prestige and wealth. The narrator uses these finer things that he gifts to his beloved as an expression of love and admiration.
24. “Fashion Week” By Steel Banglez Ft. MoStack And AJ Tracey
The penultimate song on our list is “Fashion Week” by Steel Banglez, featuring MoStack and AJ Tracey. It’s an anthem celebrating the glamor of the fashion world.
This track uses the concept of Fashion Week as a metaphor for exclusivity, luxury, and style. It’s all about living a lifestyle mirroring the glitz and glam of these events: filled with beautiful people and designer clothes.
At its core, “Fashion Week” shines a light on the glamor and allure of the fashion industry. It reflects the exclusivity of such events and the stylish lifestyle that comes with it.
25. “Fashion After All” By Poppy
Finally, we have “Fashion After All” by singer-songwriter Poppy. Here, fashion is a metaphor for self-expression and individuality. It’s also a style used to stand out and feel confident.
The lyrics suggest that the narrator uses fashion — her hair, makeup, and clothes — to make a statement and evoke envy. This reflects the power and influence that fashion can have on other people.
In addition, the narrator exudes power by embracing her style. It makes her feel glamorous, much like the transformative power that fashion has on the individual.
Summing Up Our List Of Fashion Songs
In wrapping up, the songs above showed us the power and influence fashion has.
They use fashion as a metaphor for wealth, status, and individuality and pay homage to the world of fashion as an integral part of their lifestyle and identity.
And just like we always say, the list is by no means comprehensive. If you’d like to see more songs on the list, let us know! We’ll gladly add them for you.
