The Style Evolution of Kendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar's fashion evolution has mirrored his musical journey, transitioning from a raw and authentic street style to a more refined and eclectic aesthetic that reflects his growth as an artist and a human.

In the early stages of his career, around the time of his debut album "Section.80" in 2011, Lamar embraced a laid-back West Coast vibe. His fashion choices were heavily influenced by his Compton roots, featuring a mix of oversized jerseys, baggy jeans, and classic sneakers. This style resonated with his commitment to authenticity and storytelling within his music, reflecting the struggles and experiences of his upbringing.

As Lamar gained recognition with the release of his critically acclaimed album "good kid, m.A.A.d city" in 2012, his fashion sense began to evolve. The gritty streetwear elements persisted, as shown at 2012 BET Awards where he jumpstarted Rhude by wearing t-shirts designed by the LA based brand. Apart from supporting Rhuigi, K-Dot even was one of the first supporters of Virgil Abloh’s independent fashion endeavour, sporting a Pyrex Vision hoodie in 2013.

With the release of "To Pimp a Butterfly" in 2015, Kendrick Lamar's fashion underwent a more pronounced transformation. This period marked a departure from conventional streetwear, as Lamar began experimenting with bold patterns, statement accessories, and a more avant-garde approach. His attire became a canvas for self-expression, mirroring the complexity and artistic depth of his music. Lamar started collaborating with high-end designers, solidifying his presence in the fashion world.

The "DAMN." era, which began in 2017, witnessed Kendrick embracing a fusion of streetwear and high fashion. His outfits became a balance of luxury and urban aesthetics, often featuring designer pieces from brands like Balenciaga, Off-White, and Fear of God. Lamar's fashion choices during this time were characterised by a mix of athletic influences and bold accessories off the stage whilst on stage during his tour he was embracing the “Kung fu Kenny” looks. It was all about beautifully blending luxury brands with his Compton roots.

In recent years, Kendrick’s fashion has continued to evolve, demonstrating his versatility and willingness to push boundaries. He's been spotted wearing tailored suits for special events, showcasing a more polished and sophisticated image. One of his most notable moments in recent years has been the Tiffany & Co. crown for his Mr Morale & The Big Steppers era; 50 thorns on intertwined branch - like structures featuring 8000 diamonds.

One thing that has remained consistent throughout his career is his ability to remain tapped in with streetwear, particularly by creatives who are people of colour. An example is British - Jamaican designer Martine Rose; he wore an outfit from her namesake brand's Fall 2023 collection at the Grammys and launched a collection with her in November 2023.

A champion of black people, Kendrick has always used fashion as a way to help promote their work whilst utilising their art in creating the narratives around his music, album by album.