Style Icons: Kanye West

We’ve started the same feature in the ladies section of the site and we’re bringing it over to the guys as well; Style Icons. The first icon for the guys is not an obvious first choice to kick off the campaign with, he has only  been considered stylish in recent years as he’s slowly developed. He’s also been seen popping up on the front rows of some major designer fashion shows. He’s pals with Marc Jacobs and one of Hip Hop’s super producer’s; Kanye West.

So why does Kanye qualify as a style icon?

I’m a massive Hip Hop fan as I’m sure you’ll know if you’ve read my fashion timeline so I can kind of relate to Mr West’s transformation. He burst on the scene with his college drop out album in 2004 sporting Ralph Lauren polo shirts, baggy jeans and a Louis Vuitton rucksack. The college boy persona went hand in hand with the message of his album.

However, as each album was released and Kanye matured so did his style, Mr West has the ability to pull off a whole array of looks and no longer has one particular signature ‘look’. If you flick through the archives of pictures you’ll see him carrying preppy looks, casual, smart, formal all effortlessly.

Kanye is no stranger to designer labels and in 2009 the ‘Louis Vuitton don’ collaborated with Louis Vuitton to release his own line of trainers.

So what’s Kanye’s key?

He definitely doesn’t lack in the confidence department, he has a tremendous self belief that has helped him become one of the music industry’s most sought after producers. This confidence allows him to wear a whole host of different ‘get ups’ and pull it off as he always looks comfortable wearing it. He may try things that are more daring than the usual fashionista, combining bold colours and strong accessories.

Noticing the importance of accessorising from chains, to bow ties to bags and sunglasses, accessories are often over looked but can help in dramatically lifting your fashion look. Also notice the combining of formal and casual pieces like bow ties and denim jackets that he wears to create a beautiful juxtaposition.

Here are a collection of photo’s I’ve found that display Kanye’s ability to pull off different looks. Remember if you’d like someone to be featured in our style icon’s then you can get in touch with us here.