While the long-standing marriage between fashion and hip-hop is no secret to those who appreciate the genre, its evolution speaks to hip-hop's increasing stronghold on pop culture as a whole. Long gone are the days of select streetwear brands and designers like FUBU, Dapper Dan and Walker Wear catering only to those entrenched in the hip-hop scene. Instead, fashion houses ranging from Gucci to Balenciaga are now jockeying for the favor of hip-hop's top artists, and the purchasing power of their fans.
The true rock stars of the current generation, hip-hop heavyweights possess the ability to simultaneously set trends and mold the zeitgeist's definition of what is "in" and what is "out."
"Hip-hop artists are storytellers and news reporters of the times, [and] with hip-hop being the number one music genre, it proves that hip-hop artists drive culture,” says fashion consultant Aleali May, who has worked with top names like Kendrick Lamar and Lil Yachty. “Fashion is paying more attention to its consumers now more than ever."
Taking the link between fashion and hip-hop one step further, artists are now eagerly seizing the opportunity to capitalize on their ability to influence what their listeners wear. From Soundcloud rappers to established icons, merch lines are the perfect way for rappers to connect with their fans on a personal level while adding an additional stream of revenue to their portfolio.
With the holiday season in full swing, now is the perfect time to treat yourself, a family member, or that special someone in your life to an item from the merch line of their favorite artist. From the instantly recognizable OVO branding to slides from The Weeknd, we've got you covered for everyone on your list this year.
Future Freebandz Double Cup
At just $2, this double cup emblazoned with the Freebandz logo is the perfect stocking stuffer for any Future fans on your list. Keep your drank cold and your wallet full with this reusable gift.
Future & JuiceWRLD "Ain't Livin Right" Long Sleeve Printed Shirt
This unisex 100% cotton long sleeve printed shirt is perfect for any fan of Future or Juice WRLD you still have to snag a gift for this year. Keeping the price tag under $50, you can treat someone to a limited edition item from the Wrld On Drugs mixtape merch line that is as much of an eye-catcher as it is a statement piece.
With Drake's mass appeal, you'd be hard-pressed to friend a Christmas list that doesn't include a fan of the "Nice For What" rapper. Pick up this beanie fitted with the trademark OVO owl for any guy or girl on your list.
OVO X KLEAN Canteen Owl Water Bottle
Do you have a fitness freak on your list? Someone who wouldn't be caught dead using a plastic water bottle? At just $38, this OVO stainless steel, dishwasher-safe water bottle is the perfect gift that can be enjoyed by anyone and will last for years with regular use.
OVO Owl Ashtray
If you have a cigarette smoker or anyone who's 420-friendly on your list, keep them from ashing in an old Big Gulp cup by gifting them this ceramic OVO ashtray.
Chance The Rapper "3" New Era Cap
This "3" New Era Cap famously worn by Chance The Rapper himself is the perfect gift for any fan of the "Same Drugs" rapper, guy or girl. If you're a Chance fan, there's no better universally-recognizable way of showing the world your fandom then by repping his hat.
Chance The Rapper Lighter
Short on stocking stuffers this year? Grab this "3" lighter from CTR's official 2017 "Be Encouraged Tour" merch line for just $6.
Golf Wang Alligator Clutch
This alligator clutch is the perfect item for any lady stan of Tyler, the Creator. Or any lady, in general-- it's stylish and sleek, the embossed lambskin leather design and gold foil print is a great luxury item to let your significant other know how you really feel about them.
Golf Wang Save The Bees Hoodie
This screen-printed Save The Bees hoodie from Tyler, the Creator's clothing line Golf Wang has been a longtime fan favorite of the artist's collection. Worn by the rapper himself, this unisex hoodie is perfect for any fan on your list.
Gucci Mane Name Stack Shirt
With so many creative aliases under the "So Icy" rapper's belt, this popularized name stack shirt is a succinct way of allowing any guy or girl on your list to tell the world exactly who they bump on their playlist--with no chance of confusion.
Gucci Mane Evil Genius Dad Hat
With Dad Hats holding their rank as one of the hottest accessories this year, this white adjustable cap is a solid stocking stuffer for anyone who eagerly counted down the December 7 release of the rapper's thirteenth studio album.
2 Chainz Trap Ugly Christmas Sweater
As ugly sweater Christmas sweaters become more and more popular, allow anyone on your list to stand out from the crowd with this pink and black Trap pullover crewneck. At just $30, you can grab this item for the same price as regular ugly Christmas sweaters run for in-store.
Mac Miller Swimming Wave Hoodie
Fans can (and will) still proudly rep the merch of the late Mac Miller and support his legacy in the process. This burgundy unisex hoodie is a fitting tribute to the rapper, perfect for any fan of his latest studio album.
Mac Miller Self Care T-Shirt
With its simple, clean design this unisex Self Care T-shirt is the top gift for any fan who could "fly home with their eyes closed."
Cardi B Invasion of Privacy Sunglasses
Do you have a lady stan in your circle who is a certified member of the #BardiGang and still bumps "Bodak Yellow"? Look no further than these white, cat-eye glasses given icon status by the cover of Bardi's debut album, Invasion of Privacy.
TDE Gear
In any selection of hip-hop fans, chances are that at least one of them supports Jay Rock, Kendrick Lamar, Ab-Soul, Schoolboy Q, Isaiah Rashad, SZA, Lance Skiiiwalker, SiR, Zacari and/or Reason. For the best selection of budget-friendly TDE gear, peep this collection of The Championship Tour merch. You can grab socks and t-shirts to rep the West Coast crew for yourself and your family, and even the little ones are included-- keep them styled right on the playground with TDE kid-sized joggers.
Meek Mill Motivate Windbreaker
Is your boyfriend, brother or best bro a Meek Mill fan? Get the most bang for your buck by picking up his "Motivate" windbreaker that includes a download of Meek Mill's album CHAMPIONSHIPS and access to a 90-day trial of TIDAL. What's better than combining music and merch?
Tory Lanez Love Me Now Long Sleeve
This unisex Torey Lanez long sleeve will make the lucky recipient on your list stand out in more ways than one. With its neon green color, this ode to Lanez' lastest release is a statement piece that is sure to pick up likes on the 'Gram.
Dreamville Messenger Bag
Anyone on your list who loves J. Cole's dexterous rap crew? At just $20, this Dreamville messenger bag is perfect for anyone in your circle frequently on-the-go to school or work.
Anderson .Paak Velvet Durag
This Anderson .Paak bundle is the perfect gift for any guy on your list. Functional and stylish, keep your man lookin' right with this Paak-endorsed velvet durag in addition to a digital download of Oxnard.
Nicki Minaj Queen Necklace
Do you have a Queen in your life who is also a member of the #Barbz? Show her how much you love her by treating her to this Queen chain in addition to a digital download of her latest studio release of the same name.
The Weeknd XO Slides
Thankfully, The Weeknd restocked his merch line just in time for Christmas. Grab these sleek rubber slides before the sell out again-- and with both men's and women's sizes, they are a perfect item for nearly anyone on your list.
Happy Shopping!
All images of merchandise are sourced directly from the artist website