In Today’s ever changing world of fashion, it’s important to have a “few good men” you can look up to when it comes to finding your fashion voice. Men who have taken the risk of stepping outside of the fashion norm to create their own personal style. At the end of the day that is what we all should strive to do. Becoming of your own by using what influences you the most, that’s the goal at hand. These men have all influenced the way I dress due to their creativity and uniqueness. Most of them are faces spotted throughout the entertainment industry, so their personal style and appearance is what makes them their living! So being on point is a key of life with them.Big Sean
- Big Sean performing his smashing hit “My Last” featuring Chris Brown at the 2011 BET Awards
Jay Z
After building a clothing brand that dominated the fashion industry for years, Jay Z vision for the ”fashion forward” man started with his love and passion for self assurance in what he wore on a daily basis. He revolutionized the world of fashion in ways many could understand and grew to love. Through the eyes of a man who sought to standout and surpass his peers musically and fashionably, Jay Z is the epitome of a person who has no fear in what he says, does or wears. His satisfaction and self confidence within himself allows him to pave the way for fashion heads all over the world.Wiz Khalifa
Bold, young, and fresh talents are a few ways to describe this outspoken artist whom is no stranger to personal style and making fashion statements trend quickly! Wiz Khalifa has a huge following of young people who view him as an inspiration. He creates his own trends and his own slogans! (i.e. Taylorgang) We all can learn from his originality, how we can make more use out of what we already have stashed away in our closets. Making use of what we already have not only saves money, but it makes your style more creative and unique! Wiz Khalifa wins for the most original! Taylor Gang Over Everything! Diggy Simmons
- Diggy Simmons, Son of Rev Run from the hit 80′s rap n’ rock band RunDMC
Swag, Swag, SWAG! the three words that describe the
uncategorical approach the young rapper Diggy Simmons displays. His “care-free” attitude reflects his personal style and how he doesn’t find it necessary to follow the crowd in
order to develop a dope fashion game!
With the release of his debut album his prime focus at the moment, Diggy makes it his priority to personalize his wardrobe in order to stand out from his peers. Something that I like about diggy that people could learn from is that he doesn’t overdo it nor does he over dress. He keeps it simple yet personal when he makes an appearance or does shows. Diggy deserves a spot on the top 25 because
of his intelligence and love for fashion!
Pharrell
- Fashion King behind Billionaire Boys Club
Chris Brown
Unpredictable, trendsetter, and limitless are all words that accurately describe the talented and and fashionably innovative Chris Brown! His fashion game rules the R&B industry and which shows through the love his fans show him on a daily basis. They use his innovative style and creative personality to develop a wardrobe that’s comfortable and to their liking. This reason, among others, are why Chris Brown deserved a spot on the top 25 list. His music allows him to show his talented vocals and lyrical compilation, but it also shows his love for fashion and how he can make simple fashion statements trend worldwide. Chris Brown uses his creative art blog Mechanical Dummy to display his interest in art and culture which allows him to show off his graffiti designs, and abstract structures. When compiling a list of top inspiration fashion greats, its impossible to have a finished product without including Chris Brown. His passion for music, art, and fashion outshines his past and helps inspire young people to invest time into building and sculpturing their own fashion style.Kanye West
Kanye West needs no introduction when it comes to fashion. Enterning early in his career at the Louis Vuitton fashion house in Paris, Kanye knows everything about high couture fashion that there is to know! Every season you can find Kanye on the front row of every fashion show in New York and even Paris. He makes sure he knows what’s likely to become a top selling trend and encourages everyone around him to do the same. Even after his first shoe release, the “Nike Air Yeezy’s” Kanye was dabbling into new ideas and inspirations to entertain to make sure he was staying relevant and constant. He wanted to make sure he was a step ahead of his competition. Currently Kanye is putting the finishing touches on one of the most highly anticipated albums of the decade! Kanye teamed up with Jay-Z to make their first album together entitled “Watching The Throne” which is set to release August 12, 2011. I look forward to outrageous trends spinning off from this tour!Justin Bieber
Justin Bieber has serenaded fans all over the world at the young age of 16. He has managed to slide his way into the world of young teens everywhere. In my opinion, it is safe to say that Justin Bieber is considered an idol to many and has inspired young people all over the world that they can become a trendsetter. Justin does all he can to please his fans, but what he does to satisfy himself is dress according to his personality and liking. It’s obvious his team of stylists aren’t pressuring him to dress according to the trends just because they are what other celebrities are wearing. What you never want to do is sell yourself out just because some “professional stylist” says something else is hotter than what you are wearing. Just do like Justin, keep yourself encouraged and be independent. Know what you can wear and what you “shouldn’t”.Drake
- YMCMB Recording Artist – Drake
Tyga
- YMCMB Recording Artist – Tyga
lil Wayne
CEO of YM - lil wayne
In the eyes of many, he is considered a evolutionist. He turned the rap industry around within a single decade. He birthed many exceptional albums and is the mastermind behind one of the most successful recording labels of all-time. Lil Wayne has the talent, and most importantly, he has the following to change and evolve the entertainment industry indefinitely. Wayne’s fashion game is very unpredictable. No matter the day, time, season, or year, Wayne is bound to be rocking the best of the best. He makes it his priority to be an influence to the young rap community. His fans are the most important people in the world to him so he will make sure they are following the appropriate example. Wayne’s fashion style doesn’t change, it matures. It’s the very thing that makes him stand out in the sea of people with incredible swag. Wayne isn’t done converting people into fashion heads, so don’t expect him to stop dressing out of the ordinary. Let his style influence you to be influential!
Robert Kardashian
Rob Kardashian leaving Katsuya after his B-day Dinner.
Justin Timberlake
JT posing for GQ magazine upon the launch of his clothing line "William Rast"
Justin Timberlake has made a house hold name for himself over the years. He wrote his name in the history books while achieving massive record sales and acquiring a large fan base. His talented songs and music videos have catapulted him into the fashion realm. It is here where people like myself can really get a sense of JT’s personal style. He has become the inspiration of so many different trends amongst groups of people, friends, and communities. With his clothing line “William Rast” Justin is able to showcase his love for fashion and even incorporate his own personal style into his clothing line. For a chance we are able to see what inspires Justin to become the fashion icon that he is. I guess it’s fair to say that Justin Timberlake stuck to his word when he told us he was “bringing sexy back” lol His new take on fashion and sense of style allows for any man to feel completely comfortable when wearing items from his clothing line. Justin is a fashion icon of our time and will continue to turn heads and break records.
Will Smith
Will Smith and his superstar son Jayden Smith
David Beckham
David Beckham is one of the worlds greatest soccer players currently dominating the sport. Although he is often seen wearing his LA Galaxy uniform, don’t be surprised if you see him dressed to impress for a night out on the town with his wife “Posh”. What I like about this English phenom is his ability to turn on his fashion sense and turn heads! It could be for a simple walk to the coffee shop, you will still see David Beckham pushing the fashion envelope. What really impress me about David is that his unprecedented style doesn’t make-up his personality, his personality makes up his Style! On a regular, I’m exposing how important it is to allow your personality to help you create a suitable wardrobe that’s fitting for you. Using David Beckham as an inspiration could really help you get the ball rolling on creating your own wardrobe. David bears talent and a high sense of fashion, he definitely deserved a position on this post!
Usher
Usher has always been a celebrity that is capable of keeping his fashion meter at a normal level. Every red carpet event, guest appearances, and photo shoot, you can always expect Usher to dress in a manner that is quite simple, but is still him. Usher is the celebrity who believes that you don’t have to impress to nail the look you are going for. Meaning, you shouldn’t always rely on a compliment from others just to make you feel good. You should always, no matter what others say, stick to what works for you. Fashion wise, Usher is definitely running with the big dogs. In the countless concert performances that he does, his wardrobe is never the same. His ability to turn it on and off at the drop of a hat makes him that more fashionably appealing. Just because Usher doesn’t dress to impress the photogs and paparazzi, don’t think he doesn’t know his fashion. Usher attends countless runway shows and can be spotted on the front row of fashion week every fall. His dedication to fashion exceeds all expectations and offers a inspiration to everyone around the world who seeks confidence within themselves.
Adam Levine
Michael Ealy
Michael Ealy has always been very low-key about his life and his career. He pushed through the acting industry at a very young age and have been frequently seen in high budgeted films such as “Takers” and Oprah Winfrey’s special “There Eyes Were Watching GOD”. It’s quite hard to find men who possess business fashion attributes. Michael Ealy makes minimal effort to show his dapper business wardrobe. No matter what coast he is on, Michael always shows his unique sense of fashion. Everyone can learn from his experience in fashion and learn how to attain that “business swagger” that Michael Ealy displays daily.
Bruno Mars
Common
Common always keep a low profile no matter what projects he may be involved in. Including when creating his skillful albums with mind-settling, conscious music. He is always found collabing with fellow rappers and even a few R&B artists that are currently dominating the music charts. Common Definitely knows how to stay focused and determined at going after what he wants most out of life.
He didn’t just make this list because he is a trendsetter for every young guy who follows him, but he also is a inspiration that continues to inspire everyone to become what they want. He encourages young people to stay in school and continue to better yourself in order to get where you want to be in life. Common uses that same educational inspiration to help inspire our wardrobe. Often seen in a graphic tee and some denims, Common specializes in perfecting the Urban Gentleman deep down within him. Only a select few people can manage to bring out the sophisticated man within them at the most appropriate times, and Common definitely is one of them. His unique swagger and incredible rhymes are what keeps him current among the young people. Common earns his spot on the top 25 with minimal effort.
J Cole
Hailing from Fayetteville, North Carolina, J Cole exploded onto the Rap scene and immediately became a force to be reckoned with! The talent that he displays both lyrically and fashionably are what sets him apart from his fellow peers. He knows how to entertain and energize crowds at any of his sold out concerts. J Cole’s interest in fashion style is the replication of his creative personality. He takes time to construct a wardrobe that specifically fits his interests and needs. J Cole is without a doubt a fashion icon that will be acknowledged for years to come. In order to continue to support J.Cole and his talents, make sure you pick up his highly anticipated album Cole World – The Sideline Story
P Diddy
Amongst his numerous career endeavors, Sean “P. Diddy” Combs has created a brand name for himself that ranks among the likes of many well known fashion companies and trendsetters. His entrepreneurial characteristics paved the way for who and what he have become today. Starting one of the worlds leading fashion companies at an early age, P. Diddy let his CEO attributes guide him to become one of the worlds most sought after fashion experts. P. Diddy’s sense of style is very broad. His wardrobe allows him to dress as a professional by day and a street fashion king by night! Diddy’s inspiration showers down upon young men everywhere daily. He strived to become the best and reached that goal with much determination and hard work.
Everyone can learn from Diddy’s incredible work ethic and be motivated by all of his accomplishments. Diddy doesn’t just dress to impress the media, instead he wants to insure that every young person around the world have confidence in themselves and have the drive to reach their goals. Diddy is a true inspiration and a fashion mogul that will go down in American history.
Miguel
Making his debut in 2010 and captivating the R&B world with his song “All I Want Is You” featuring J. Cole, Miguel is one of those come-up-stars that must be watched in order to see the success he will achieve in the future. His skillful ability to arrange music and add his own unique spin to it makes Miguel the trending artist that he has become. He applies the same idea to his wardrobe. He takes what is already current and turns it into something that looks worth thousands of dollars. Only the creativity within him can take the responsibility for his cool wardrobe stunts!
Every night when Miguel hits the stage at sold out venues, he not only puts on a show lyrically, but he also shows off his versatility in style and allows his personal style to illuminate through his wardrobe. If Miguel had not pursued a career in music, it is often said that he would have a phenomenal career in fashion and design. He knows what people are wanting to get their hands on and into their wardrobe. Miguel is the type of artist who feels that if he isn’t showing his true style, then he is only being lead by what is perceived to be acceptable. No one should tell you what YOUR personal style should consist of. At the end of the day, it’s your style and your personality that must illuminate through the fashions you choose to wear.
If you want a true lesson in creativity and style, Miguel is the perfect teacher. You Tube his performances and see how unique and inspiring his wardrobe is. He provides insight on how to accessorize as well.
Trey Songs
It doesn’t take a blind man to notice the swagger and confidence displayed by Trey Songs! This all-American R&B phenom is currently dominating the Billboard charts with his soulful lyrics and incredible creativity. Every track he produces, he makes it shine with his personality while also giving it it’s own flare. Trey Songs undoubtedly knows how to sell sex with every project he undertakes. Currently Trey Songs is the face for the mens Roca Wear collection. Selected by Jay-Z, Trey took the responsibility of making women all over the world fantasize over his good looks and awesome swagger.
Trey’s ability illuminate amongst a sea of celebrities shows how pure and true he is to committing to wherever his heart leads him. His fashion depicts a young man who is fascinated over colors, patterns, and textures. Trey uses his inner personality when shopping and literally wears his heart on his sleeve. Everyone chooses to follow and be like their favorite celebrity, but Trey often encourages young people to follow what they feel makes them complete. Don’t spend insane amounts of money on something just because it’s what society is saying should be worn. People who know how to shop according to their personality will not only save themselves time and money, but also the regrets that would follow had they went along with what society says is the new trend.
Trends are there to influence and to help get your creative juices flowing. Use them to your advantage.
The 25th most influential man to exude personal style is none other than the worlds leading trendsetter of all time …
Michael Jackson
Hailing from Gary, Indiana, Michael Jackson quickly knew he was destined for greatness. At a very tender age, he was the center of attention in his family’s talented band, The Jackson Five. After quickly shooting to super stardom, Michael and his band of brothers took the world by storm and serenading young girls all over the world. Traveling to different countries, dinning on exquisite cuisines, and meeting new people everyday was the complete norm for the young teenager. Michael Jackson’s family band soon after broke apart, spawning whom the world would soon dub as the most talented performer of all time. Michael Jackson may have had a voice coach, band director, and even a hair stylist, but one thing Michael surely didn’t need was a fashion stylist.
Michael wasn’t your ordinary performer. He serenaded sold out arena’s in what he thought projected his loving and caring personality. Shiny shirts, silky pants, and leather shoes was as average as the pop legend would go. He wanted the audience to leave his shows having had the “Michael Jackson Experience.” Being the only performer of his time donning such creative costumes, Michael was able to draw his fans closer thru his fashion choices. He would encourage everyone, old and young, to be who they were deep down inside, not someone that other people wanted them to be. This was the attitude he portrayed everyday to his young fans all over the world. He even had other celebrities breaking out of their shells to find their inner self. He felt that no one should be given the job of choosing what you should wear because only you know what fits your personality.
This is very true. People who wear what they see in magazines clearly are driven by a society of followers rather than their own personal choices. As stated earlier, those fashion picks in your favorite magazine are only their to provide influence. You shouldn’t allow it to dictate what should be in your wardrobe.
Michael Jackson was undoubtedly the best performer to ever grace the universe, but he also was someone who believed in following your own heart and personal desires. He encouraged young people to do what they wanted in life because they were the only ones who could live it. Michael Jackson will forever be missed and will always live in our hearts. He will also live through his music and the impact it had on everyone’s life back in the late 70′s and early 80′s.
Thank you Michael Jackson for your contribution to our lives through music and fashion.
