Streetwear has been around before celebrities started rocking it, and it all began with the skateboarding community, which I feel like a lot of people forget about. Now, they turn to the likes of celebrities for inspiration, and while that has its perks, Celebrities not only have the income and resources to dress exactly how they want, but they also have the status to take risks and can usually pay off by wearing specific things because they are famous.
Nonetheless, these celebrities we have chosen today have completely transformed the streetwear industry because they are naturally blessed with styling abilities and have the vision and confidence to wear clothes loudly and bring brands that we know and love today into the light and inspire others around them.
We are going to roll through the iconic figures that I have found to be the most influential in the world of men’s streetwear fashion.
Kanye West
Starting off extremely controversial, however, we must address things for what they are. Before Kanye’s political standpoints, which have shunned him out, in the early 2000s and while he was with Kim Kardashian, he was a style and fashion icon. With the creation of his Yeezy and Y3, he was able to curate t-shirts, trainers, and so much more that fueled the streetwear fashion movement and inspired so many others with their pieces and collections.
He seems to be all about minimalism as of late, focusing on plain, all-black and baggy looks, which I see are becoming a very popular choice for people.
ASAP Rocky
Another controversial point is his current trial verdict and the fact that the victim is going to pursue this case. However, it doesn’t take away the years of iconic fashion moments and trends this rapper has started, not to mention his relationship with none other than the icon Rihanna, who is also renowned for her impeccable style and collaborations with the likes of Puma and so forth.
ASAP Rocky has been a huge inspiration for those with a love for fashion and continues to deliver outfits that are fashion forward, timeless and streetwear inspired. I am very excited to see the outfits he wears and you can tell it’s an innate and effortless thing for him, which makes him a clear trendsetter.
Justin Bieber
While I know some people are always concerned about Justin Bieber, especially because of the way he dresses sometimes. However, if you knew anything about the history of where streetwear began, you would see that Justin represents the true core of what a skater boy is all about. While he might not be the most fashion-forward person, he does dress like your everyday normal skater boy, which makes his street style so organic and real in a sense.
I personally love that kind of style where celebrities aren’t trying hard and dress like your everyday normal person, as it’s clear they are wearing these things because they like them and are comfortable, which street style is supposed to represent.
Adam Sandler
If there has ever been a style icon to follow, I would likely choose Adam Sandler every day of the week. This is what he likes and it’s always baggy shorts, baggy hoodies, baggy t-shirts and all things cosy and comfortable, and for good reason. I find this oversized style very streetwear and there was a point where everyone was wearing the ultimate baggy outfits and I genuinely believe it was the Adam Sandler movement.
I’m sure we all saw the skit of him at the Academy Awards, and I will not lie to you, he looked so cool in a room full of suits, and he was in his full casual clothes; I loved it. Either way, Adam Sandler has always remained consistent with his outfits and always stayed true to his chosen streetwear style, and for that, we thank you. Other celebrities that have embraced this oversized streetwear look have definitely been Billie Eilish, who has combined both high fashion and this form of style so amazingly; she has become, in a sense, a high fashion version of Adam Sandler.
Pharrell Williams
This music and fashion icon has forever been considered an inspiration to not only his fans but other celebrities, especially within the fashion industry. In the last couple of years has been a creative director at Louis Vuitton, which is a huge deal, also while juggling his own fashion brand. These are the characteristics of someone who knows exactly what they are doing in the world of fashion. Like they say, money can’t buy style, but it can definitely help you represent your authentic style and, in Pharrell’s case, build a whole brand and incredible reputation within this competitive and forever-evolving industry.
I would strongly recommend drawing fashion inspiration from the one and only Pharrell Williams, as every era he has had in fashion has made a statement and would be a great muse to look up to.
Tyler The Creator
I mean, how could I mention streetwear icons and not mention the one and only unique and flamboyant artist that is Tyler, The Creator? This celebrity is not only known for his music but his style, personality and willingness to break down the barriers of social norms with fashion. From his love to represent a bright and colourful look, almost every time he has become a safe space for people to look up to and wear those outgoing and attention-grabbing silhouettes and styles.
He has already created his own brand and done powerful affiliations with popular streetwear brands, so it comes as no surprise that when you Google or even think about street style icons, Tyler, the Creator springs to mind.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to celebrities that have mastered and created their own version of this clothing style, we have seen street style come in many forms. It’s evolved with us all, and it’s interesting to see how influential these individuals are within this one small space. Whether it be cargo pants, footwear, hoodies or T-shirt brands, you will find so much inspiration from streetwear GOATS.
