This week’s Fashion Inspired by Art is based on Jean-Michel Basquiat’s Scull. Basquiat is known for his abstract, street art styled paintings that offer social commentary and underlying messages. Below you’ll find three outfits inspired by Basquiat’s amazing street art and learn more about the artist!

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Jean-Michel Basquiat

Jean-Michel Basquiat was an American artist known for his street art and similarly styled paintings. He first became known through SAMO, a graffiti duo who wrote on the Lower East Side of Manhattan in the 1970s, when both the hip hop and street art movements were growing in full force. By the 1980s, he began to show in galleries. 

Basquiat’s work explores social commentary and dichotomies (such as wealth vs. poverty) through a mix of poetry, painting, and abstraction. Scull is a great representation of his style. Its mix of graffiti creates the powerful impression that the head is full of forms. The face is peeled off in areas, exposing teeth and bone without really showing it. Basquiat’s abstract lines and shapes coalesce to form what looks like a skull.

Graphic

Products: Graphic Tee, Belt, Jeans, Earrings, Heels

This outfit is based off a graphic tee that features another one of Basquiat’s works in a similar style to Scull. Pair this bold graphic tee with some ripped boyfriend jeans for a relaxed look. If the shirt is too oversized, go with a half or full tuck for a more interesting silhouette. Add some dainty earrings (crowns to match the shirt!) and some cute heels for a chic look.

Color Pop

Products: Tee, Jewelry Set, Bralette, Sneakers, Leggings

This look is inspired by the bold colors and edgy subject matter of Basquiat’s work. It’s street-inspired fashion to reflect his street art roots. Let the shoes be the star of the show by keeping the rest of your outfit monochromatic. Pair a loose shirt with some skinny jeans or leggings to balance each other out. For a more edgy look, add a strappy bralette to peek out from under the shirt. Accessorize with some cage-shaped rings or a bracelet.