A few days ago we unleashed our candidates for Fashionista of the Year... it’s only fair we show the fellas some love!
This year on the Fashion Bomb, we’ve increasingly tried to cater to our male readers, showcasing the looks of some of the most stylish men in hip-hop. For Fashionable Man of the Year, we’re highlighting the guys that y’all have shown the most love via Mail Bombs and dedicated posts.
Let’s take a look, shall we?
1. Jay-Z
2009 witnessed Jay-Z going over and above mogul status, penning contemporary New York anthems and even trying his hand at design. In September, he was commissioned by the US Open to fashion a limited edition Arthur Ashe T-Shirt and in August, he collaborated with Philly retailer Villa to create a pair of city ready boots. When not rocking his own creations, Hova wore Mosley Tribes Sunglasses, Vince plaid button downs, and Play Cloths t-shirts, all the while staying on top of the year’s hottest trends.
Whether in leather vests, piped cardigans, or chic Rockstar jeans, he made a splash, blazing a style trail set to rival his rap legacy.
2. Lance Gross
Svelte, tailored, and chic, Lance Gross showed he had more than just a pretty face in 2009. Whether in velvet blazers or laid back hoodies, the Howard University trained actor wowed ladies thanks to his refreshingly cool takes on fashion.
Embracing color, he even rocked purple with purpose, conveying confidence and charisma in multiple hues.
3. Pharrell
Producer, rapper, and Billionaire Boys Club ringleader Pharrell continued his fashionable reign this year, boldly stepping out of the hip-hop box by trying knee high boots and Christian Louboutin studded sneakers.
Save his few eccentric instances, Pharrell still brought it back in sharp suits, v-neck sweaters, and bow ties, looking fly even as he dared to be different.
4. Trey Songz
Soulful crooner Trey Songz debuted a new haircut, album, and sleek steeze in 2009. Going for very grown and extremely sexy, he made cameos at high wattage events in sophisticated vests and blazer jackets in alluring black or navy satin:
He stood out on the Fashion Bomb due to his collegiate cardigans and Marc Jacobs sunglasses, which created fodder for many the male Mail Bomb.
5. Kanye West
What would a fashionable male rundown be without style czar Kanye West? A regular to international fashion weeks, this year saw ‘Ye styling shoots for Elle Magazine and designing sneakers for Louis Vuitton and Nike. With equally fashionable girlfriend Amber Rose on his arm, he cut a fetching profile, playing up and complementing each of her neon spandex laced looks with varsity jackets and dark colored tuxes:
The self styled star catered to a wide range of designers, wearing everything from Margiela to Balmain to Timberland. While one of his more creative fashionable ‘accessories’ got him into trouble at MTV’s VMA’s…
…He definitely made an impression in 2009, motivating hordes of men with swagger to embrace their inner stylist:
Which guy set it off in your opinion?
Vote below:
Did we miss anyone?
We’ll announce winners for both Fashionista of 2009 and Fashionable Man of the Year Monday Afternoon!