With so many different artists today in Hip Hop it’s hard to identify one style or trend that is branded to the art form. You’ve got the backpack wearers in blazers, the pimps in suits, gangsters in colors, and the thugs in the white T’s, diamonds and furs. Is it true that if an artist is with a particular style of music they should be in a specific style of dress? Is there room for mixing styles with out criticism from their peers?

First you have the Lupe Fiascos, Kanye Wests, and the Commons of the rap game. All theses artists are known for their fashion forward style of dress that includes just a little bit more than a white T and fancy jewelry. It seems that in this class of music there is more risk taking in when it comes to their wardrobes. They make statements they set trends they turn heads. Could we look at them the same if they fell in line with other rappers? Possibly, but would we pay attention to them as much?

Now comes the Young Jeezys, Lil Flips, and Games of the industry. These artists portray more of a common version of street couture if you will. It is rare that you will see either of these artists outside their comfort zones of the White T’s, or occasional Black T’s if they are feeling extra stylish that day. Could we take them seriously if they were shouting their lyrics in blazers and sweaters? More than likely, it just wouldn’t fit.

Once an artist reaches a certain level of stardom, it does not matter what threads they are rocking because at their level they are setting the tone of fashion they are not following it. Case and point Jay Z, Ludacris, Snoop,T.I. and Puffy, several artists that can go from a jersey to a suit and back again with out any questions asked. Or can they? They do face ridicule from their counterparts, Jim Jones often comments about Jay Z’s “Old Man style” and then their was Puffy formerly known as “Shiny Suit Man!!!” But nevertheless they are so big that they can make the switch and it is accepted by most.