Grillz
A blingy trend has infiltrated Hip Hop culture. The stylish watches, phat bracelets and iced out rings have a newly reborn counterpart. Watch your favorite Hip Hop artist smile and you might notice it. The latest in Hip Hop expression are Grillz. These teeth ornaments are now being fitted to Hip Hop fans on a large scale. No longer are Grillz relegated to rich rappers flaunting their wealth. They are so prevalent now that youth everywhere are buying them.
Grillz have in recent years experienced a rebirth in popularity. Worn back in the day by the likes of Flavor Flav, Grillz faded in the 90’s as acts like NWA and Snoop Dog dominated the rap scene. West coast rappers were in essence minimalists, sticking to white t-shirts and khaki pants. The image of a rawness found in the heart of ghettos which gangsta rappers represented, was out of line with the flamboyant nature of bling jewelry. As the years progressed and more rappers tasted fame and wealth, their images changed.
Gold Teeth Grillz
Today, artists like Nelly and Paul Wall wear bling bling Grillz regularly in rap videos. Often studded with diamonds usually over platinum Grillz have reestablished themselves commercially. Grillz are now available in silver and cubic zirconia. They are designed flexibly so as to fit most individuals. The combination of their current affordability and the sudden new found interest have made Grillz "must have" jewelry.
Grillz are being used by non rappers as well. R and B singers and Hollywood actors have been spotted with bling smiles. Hip Hop continually influences fashion, language and music resulting in a strong interest by fans from all walks of life. As Grillz gain notoriety, fans(including famous ones) are quick to be seen wearing bling Grillz. As a result, they are viewed as "cool". The world of bling jewelry has also taken notice as demand for Grillz increase. The bling trend has sprouted several websites dedicated to the cause of proliferating Hip Hop Grillz as well the introduction of new lines such as shoe grillz.
Are Grillz here to stay? Only time will tell. Perhaps a new or old Hip Hop fad will replace Grillz in the mind of the public. There are still numerous areas on our bodies available for expression and more importantly exploitation.
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