Tyler, The Creator: From Outlier to Innovator
from my archives, circa 2021
Tyler, The Creator’s evolution, from goofy skater kid and outlying rapper to fashion designer and innovator, GQ Provocateur of the Year and Grammy award winning musician, has paved the way for a generation of label defying, fashionable young creatives evolving from outlier to innovator.
Built upon boundary pushing authenticity and unapologetic self-expression, Tyler’s fashion and music empire has gained immense traction and patronage, making him one of the largest influences on fashion, music and culture for Generation Z (those born in 1997- 2012). This influence has somewhat defied the concept of trends by inspiring individuality rather than imitation, creating an innovative way for fashion and culture to emerge.
Tyler’s career began in 2007 as a founding member of rap collective and brand ‘Odd Future’ where he and his cohorts came together to create clothes, films, and definingly, music. Playful experimentation and acceptance of the outcast were its core, defining features. Tyler has paid homage to these values as he’s developed into a globally renowned rapper, musician, avant-garde fashion designer and trend leader.
Tyler’s first solo appearance in the fashion world was the 2011 launch of his streetwear fashion brand Golf Wang (also known as Golf). The brand was clearly distinguishable from merely being Tyler’s form of artist merchandise, but it lacked the sense of legitimacy that would deem it a respectable brand in the world of fashion. This would soon change as the brand grew and matured, becoming one of the most successful musician-run clothing brands to date. Golf birthed its charmingly named subsidiary, Golf le Fleur in 2016. Le Fleur came into being as a shoe collaboration with Converse, this successful ongoing partnership has led to further le Fleur collaborations with Lacoste, retaW Candles and Jeni’s Ice Cream.
Golf and Golf le Fleur have been vehicles of fashion expression for Tyler, reflecting his artistic vision and trend forecasts. With two seasonal Golf releases and various smaller “drops” (a limited release of items, a key feature of streetwear culture), from both brands in between, the range of items produced is extensive, all of which are designed by Tyler.
Outside of his role as Golf Wang and le Fleur owner and designer, Tyler, The Creator’s name in the world of fashion holds great significance. Similarly, to his music, Tyler has an outlandish style that is, at its core, is versatile, bright, and playful. As Tyler has developed as a person, artist and designer, his style has transformed from humorous adolescence to maturity and an undeniable clean-cut-class.
Many elements of 1950s men’s fashion influences appear prominently in Tyler’s style. Whether he’s wearing a 50s style plaid sport coat paired with brown slacks and unreleased Golf le Fleur dress shoes or, in true 50s style, a pair of Bermuda shorts with a button-up cardigan layered over a collared shirt and tie (all by Golf Wang of course), he most certainly is pulling inspiration 1950s fashion. Tyler’s style is not limited to these vintage influences, one of the most noticeable style links in regard to Tyler’s aesthetic of style is to film director, writer and producer, Wes Anderson. Anderson’s work is hugely distinguishable in its unique use of colour, composition, narrative and undeniable beauty. Tyler could blend seamlessly onto the set of Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel or Moonrise Kingdom with his eclectically charming attire.
The evolution of Tyler, The Creator’s personal style, commercial designs and prominence in the world of fashion has influenced the styles and creative processes of many. With his continual emphasis on self- expression and integrity to one’s self, Tyler has cleared a path for young creatives to push boundaries, bloom and embrace their individuality whilst doing so himself. Tyler is undoubtably someone to keep an eye out for as he grows further as a fashion designer slash innovator, musician and, of course, Creator.
