It’s no revelation to note that hip-hop is currently showcasing some of the best-dressed guys around. But while we can sit here and talk for hours about Kanye, Wiz, A$AP and Drake, it’s also worth recognising a new generation of artists rising through the style ranks in 2016. Here are five of our favourite pretenders to the rap game's fashion throne.
STYLE ADVICE
New hip-hop style icons
By Sam Higgins, 7 March 2016
Picture: Getty
Chance The Rapper
Although Chance The Rapper has been on our rap radar for a couple of years now, his helping hand in Kanye’s latest album The Life Of Pablo has seen him rise to global prominence. The Ultralight Beam lyricist's time in the studio with Ye seems to have paid dividends sartorially, too. Just look at him here, easily pulling off denim dungarees with a pair of white Vans and his signature snapback.
Picture: Corbis
Vic Mensa
Although like Kanye and Chance, Vic Mensa hails from Chicago, his taste seems to differ greatly to theirs. Like a true fashion anarchist, Vic rejects the typical streetwear influence and instead regularly expresses his inner punk. His love of 70s-inspired threads is exemplified here, rocking a white denim jacket decorated with graffitied tags and a UK flag and black jeans that showcase the same detail on the pockets.
Picture: Corbis
Future
With 12 releases in the past four years, Future is evidently a busy man. Even though he must live his whole life in the studio, recording track after track, the rapper still makes sure he’s looking the part when he does actually go outside and up on stage. Here he is showing that off in a grey Trapstar hoodie, longline shearling-lined blue bomber and grey jeans.
Picture: Getty
Young Thug
We’ve been tipping Young Thug for sartorial greatness for a little while and have been sat here, patiently waiting for his occasionally eccentric personal style to become as honed and effectively delivered as his rap. At the latest Yeezy showcase, Kanye not only gave Thug air time to premiere his new track, but also dressed him head to toe in Season 3. Let’s just hope he kept hold of those pieces and thinks he looks as good in them as we do.
Picture: HLenie | www.instagram.com/hlenie
Rejjie Snow
'Irish rapper' is a rare phrase – in fact, we’re unsure whether we've ever uttered it previous to this. So when one comes along full of potential, they really stand out. Dublin-born Rejjie Snow is breathing new life into the European rap scene with a fresh outlook and unique flow. At the same time, he’s also consistently nailing street-ready looks filled with covetable brands from Palace to Supreme. Just look at him here on stage in Paris in an oversized grey hoodie, Champion joggers and some nicely worn-in adidas kicks.
STYLE. GROOMING. INSPIRATION. ADVICE.
