Kanye West’s old fashion sense (Photo via Wikimedia Commons.)
Kanye West, the influential rapper, producer, and fashion mogul, has left an indelible mark on the world of style. From his early days as a backpack rapper to his current status as a fashion industry heavyweight, Kanye has continually pushed boundaries and redefined what it means to be fashionable. In this article, we will take a chronological journey through Kanye’s style evolution, examining key moments and trends that have shaped his iconic image.
The Preppy Backpack Rapper (2004-2005)
When Kanye signed to Roc-A-Fella records in 2002, his style began to ascend. Prior to that, he followed hip-hop fashion trends of the late ’90s and early 2000s. However, it was after the release of his debut album, “The College Dropout,” in 2004 that Kanye’s style truly came into its own. He embraced a preppy aesthetic, often seen wearing Ralph Lauren Polo shirts layered under sweaters and accessorized with a Louis Vuitton backpack. This reinterpretation of classic hip-hop style resonated with fans and set the stage for Kanye’s future fashion endeavors.
The Influence of Kanye’s Preppy Style
Kanye’s preppy style not only resonated with fans but also influenced the wider fashion landscape. His ability to merge luxury and streetwear was groundbreaking, and he became known for mixing high-end brands like Dior and Louis Vuitton with streetwear staples like Bapestas and Adidas Rod Lavers. Kanye’s influence extended beyond his own wardrobe, as people began to emulate his style choices, from wearing Polo shirts with popped collars to embracing classic Americana aesthetics. He single handedly changed the global Sneakergame with Adidas which is the brand behind the famous Adidas Campus
Kanye’s Impact on Polo Ralph Lauren
Kanye’s association with Polo Ralph Lauren brought new excitement to the brand, which had cooled off in the 2000s. While Polo enthusiasts from the ’90s appreciated the brand’s graphic-heavy pieces, Kanye celebrated classic Americana, showcasing a more preppy and refined side of Polo. His iconic Bear knit sweater from 2001, now commonly referred to as the “Kanye Bear,” became a coveted item among a new generation of collectors and consumers. Kanye’s impact on Polo can still be seen today, as his influence is evident in the resale market, with listings often referencing his name or featuring pictures of him wearing Polo pieces.
The Rise of Kanye’s Empire
As Kanye’s musical career flourished, so did his influence in the fashion industry. He expanded his creative endeavors, establishing his own brand, Yeezy, and collaborating with major fashion houses like Louis Vuitton and Adidas (their bestselling model today is Adidas Campus 00). Kanye’s sneaker collaborations, such as the Air Yeezy and the Yeezy Boost, became highly sought after, solidifying his status as a fashion icon. The Yeezy brand, which includes both sneakers and apparel, is now valued at billions of dollars, a testament to Kanye’s business acumen and his ability to shape the fashion landscape.
Shifting Silhouettes and Color Palettes
Throughout his career, Kanye has continuously pushed boundaries and introduced new trends. From elongated tops and skinny denim in the 2010s to earth-toned boxy fits in his Yeezy Season 1 line, Kanye has consistently influenced how people dress. His dominating silhouette and color palette choices have become synonymous with his eras, reflecting his ever-evolving artistic vision. Whether it’s his preference for suede chelsea boots or his introduction of cropped tops, Kanye has changed the way we approach fashion and get dressed.
Collaborations and Creative Partnerships
Kanye’s impact extends beyond his solo ventures. He has collaborated with a diverse range of creatives, from the late Virgil Abloh to Matthew M. Williams, Jerry Lorenzo, and Justin Saunders. These collaborations have brought fresh perspectives to the fashion world, with each individual bringing their unique aesthetic to the table. Kanye’s ability to assemble a team of talented individuals at Donda has contributed to the success of his brand and further solidified his influence in the industry.
The Enduring Legacy of Kanye West
As we reflect on Kanye West’s style evolution, it’s clear that he has left an enduring legacy in the world of fashion. His ability to merge luxury and streetwear, his innovative collaborations, and his fearless approach to style have forever changed the industry. Kanye’s impact can be seen in the way people dress and the trends that continue to emerge. He has not only influenced what people purchase but has also shifted the way we think about fashion and express ourselves through clothing.
Conclusion
Kanye West’s style evolution is a testament to his creativity, influence, and entrepreneurial spirit. From his preppy backpack rapper days to his current status as a fashion mogul, Kanye has continually pushed boundaries and redefined what it means to be stylish. His impact on Polo Ralph Lauren, his collaborations with industry experts, and his ability to shape trends and silhouettes have solidified his place as a cultural icon. As we look to the future, it’s clear that Kanye’s influence will continue to shape the fashion landscape for years to come. We hope that Kanye will surprise us with new collabs on the Adidas Campus 00s in the near future.