A costume idea suitable for men for Halloween or a theme party from the Nineties comes from the world of music, dressing up as American rapper and hip-hop icon M.C. Hammer, or Hammer as he was later simply known as.
During the late 80s, and early 90s, M.C. Hammer experienced a meteoric rise in wealth, and an equally spectacular fall, as he made – and lost – millions of dollars in a short period of time with an extravagant lifestyle, ending up millions in debt.
During this period Hammer’s most famous song, and one of the most successful singles of all time as well as his most famous record, was U Can’t Touch This, released at the beginning of 1990. This effectively became M.C. Hammer’s signature tune and is still heard today, in particular the two phrases “You can’t touch this” and “Stop: Hammer time.” Despite mockery at the time, the song has continued to hold its own.
The Head
There isn’t much for the head bar a pair of glasses. Rather than sunglasses or shades, these were a normal pair of glasses without anything to make them stick out.
The Body
M.C. Hammer’s most famous item of costume was his “Hammer pants.” These are a loose fitting trouser that are baggy pants which taper at the ankle and have a sagging rise. Loosely inspired by harem pants, Hammer’s versions were often shiny and flashy. In the music video for U Can’t Touch This, he wore a variety of different Hammer pants. These were almost always colourful, with bright pastels, but he also wore black for much of the video, and gold ones were also popular.
To top off the outfit, the Hammer pants were usually accompanied by a vest or waistcoat of some kind and chunky gold chains. To go with his black Hammer pants, he had a sleeved, mostly yellow waistcoat.
The Feet
Comfortable shoes for doing Hammer’s trademark dances were worn on the feet, with such as black trainers being popular.