Tyler, The Creator (of Fashion)
By Grace Demeritt
When people think of Tyler the Creator, they often think of his music. However, Tyler’s love of fashion and self-expression has not only led to the creation of his own clothing line, Golf Wang, but has sparked a new idea of what it means to be a hip-hop/rap artist. Whether it is through his use of bright colors, floral patterns, or excessive accessories, Tyler has been unapologetically himself, and through this, has become a role model for teens growing up just as he did.
A typical Tyler fan knows that in his youth Tyler felt like an outsider - a male who didn’t always associate with masculinity. When most men enter the hip-hop/rap sector of the music industry, they tend to be portrayed as predominantly masculine, through their music as well as their fashion statements. But Tyler has gone a different route, claiming that through his Golf Wang line, he’s created products that he likes, however “niche” they may be.
Many argue that through his collaborations, Tyler has disrupted the streetwear industry for the better. Lacoste collaborated with Golf le Fleur, a subset of Golf Wang, featuring 16 unisex garments that combine two of Tyler’s favorite things: French tennis-court style and streetwear. Similar sell-out collaborations include shoe lines with both Vans and Converse, featuring bright colors and patterns, as well as Golf Wang’s own collaboration with the “Save the Bees” campaign. These unisex lines have only added to the trend of androgynous clothing, however, Tyler’s collaborations and Golf Wang line are not the only thing he is doing in terms of fashion. His music videos and stage-looks speak volumes. In Tyler’s groundbreaking album, IGOR, he can be seen in a bright blue suit, a blonde wig, and chunky black shades, a tribute to the infamous Andy Warhol. His newest album, Call Me If You Get Lost, shows Tyler’s change in focus from bright colors to pastels, while highlighting his love for Louis Vuitton vintage trunks, blue nail polish, and chunky jeweled necklaces.
Needless to say, Tyler is constantly innovating his own look, and in turn, creating a revolution in what the streetwear-loving youth wears today. By opening the door to wearing what you want in a formerly masculine industry, Tyler has given inspiration to his fans to be who they are, unapologetically.