Kanye West: Streetwear Evolution 2017-2022

Streetwear has seen massive changes from 2017 to 2022, and no conversation about its evolution would be complete without mentioning Kanye West. His influence on fashion, particularly streetwear, is undeniable. This article explores how Kanye's style shifted during those years and how it mirrored, and often drove, the broader trends in streetwear. We'll dive into specific outfits, collaborations, and design choices that highlight this transformation. From high-end collaborations to more accessible everyday wear, Kanye’s impact touched all corners of the streetwear world. Let's get started, guys!

2017: The Calabasas Era and Athleisure Boom

In 2017, Kanye West was deep into his Calabasas era, heavily influenced by a blend of sportswear and high fashion. This period significantly shaped the athleisure trend that was already gaining momentum. Think Adidas Yeezy collaborations, particularly the Yeezy Wave Runner 700, which became a staple. These sneakers, with their chunky silhouette and muted color palettes, perfectly encapsulated the vibe of the time. They were versatile enough to pair with workout gear or more upscale streetwear pieces.

Kanye's personal style during this time often involved oversized hoodies, track pants, and, of course, Yeezys. He frequently sported Adidas Calabasas tracksuits, co-designed with Adidas, pushing the concept of comfortable yet stylish clothing. These pieces weren't just about aesthetics; they were about functionality and ease of wear, resonating with a generation that valued comfort without sacrificing style. This was a crucial moment where streetwear began to blur the lines between casual wear and high fashion, a direction Kanye heavily steered.

Moreover, the Yeezy Season collections played a crucial role. These collections, though sometimes controversial, consistently introduced new silhouettes and color schemes that influenced the broader market. Earth tones, muted greens, and sandy hues became increasingly popular, moving away from the brighter, more vibrant colors that had previously dominated streetwear. This shift towards more understated palettes marked a significant change in the aesthetic landscape. The focus shifted from loud branding to subtle design elements and unique textures.

Celebrities and influencers quickly adopted these styles, amplifying Kanye's influence. It wasn't just about wearing the clothes; it was about embodying a lifestyle that balanced comfort, luxury, and individuality. This era cemented Kanye's role as a tastemaker and trendsetter, setting the stage for the further evolution of streetwear in the years to come. He wasn’t just following trends; he was creating them. The Calabasas era was truly a turning point, solidifying athleisure as a dominant force in streetwear and laying the foundation for more experimental styles.

2018-2019: High Fashion Meets Streetwear

The years 2018 and 2019 saw Kanye West pushing boundaries even further, blending high fashion with streetwear in ways that were both innovative and provocative. During this period, there was a notable increase in collaborations between streetwear brands and luxury fashion houses, and Kanye was at the forefront of this movement. His influence was evident in how these collaborations were styled and marketed, often favoring a more raw and unfiltered aesthetic.

Kanye's personal wardrobe expanded to include more avant-garde pieces from designers like Raf Simons and Rick Owens. These designers, known for their deconstructed silhouettes and unconventional materials, began to influence the broader streetwear scene. We saw more experimentation with layering, asymmetrical cuts, and unusual fabric combinations. It wasn't just about wearing expensive clothes; it was about making a statement through unique and thought-provoking designs.

The Yeezy Boost 700 continued to evolve, with new colorways and variations that reflected this shift towards more experimental aesthetics. The introduction of the Yeezy 500 added another dimension, with its retro-inspired design and focus on comfort. These sneakers weren't just fashionable; they were functional, designed for everyday wear. This blend of fashion and function became a hallmark of Kanye's approach to streetwear.

Another key aspect of this period was the increased emphasis on sustainability and ethical production. Kanye, while not always consistent in his messaging, often spoke about the importance of creating clothing that was both environmentally friendly and socially responsible. This message resonated with a growing segment of the streetwear community that was becoming more conscious of the impact of their fashion choices. While the actual implementation of these principles was debated, the conversation itself was significant in shaping the direction of the industry.

Streetwear brands started to incorporate more sustainable materials and ethical production practices, responding to consumer demand and setting new standards for the industry. This wasn't just a trend; it was a fundamental shift in values, reflecting a broader cultural awareness of environmental and social issues. Kanye's influence, whether direct or indirect, played a role in amplifying this message and pushing the industry towards a more sustainable future.

2020-2022: Minimalism and Donda Era

From 2020 to 2022, Kanye West's style took a turn towards minimalism, coinciding with the Donda era of his music. This period saw a reduction in flashy designs and a greater emphasis on simple, utilitarian silhouettes. The color palettes became even more muted, often focusing on blacks, grays, and earth tones. This shift mirrored a broader trend in streetwear towards more understated and timeless designs.

Kanye was frequently seen wearing monochromatic outfits, often consisting of simple t-shirts, hoodies, and trousers. The focus was on the quality of the materials and the fit of the garments, rather than on bold graphics or logos. This minimalist approach was a stark contrast to the more maximalist styles that had dominated streetwear in previous years. It represented a maturation of the aesthetic, a move towards more sophisticated and refined designs.

The Yeezy line continued to evolve, with new models like the Yeezy Foam Runner pushing the boundaries of footwear design. The Foam Runner, with its unconventional shape and sustainable construction, became a polarizing but influential piece. It demonstrated Kanye's willingness to experiment and challenge conventional norms in the fashion industry. It also highlighted the growing importance of sustainability and innovation in streetwear.

The influence of workwear also became more prominent during this period. Kanye was often seen wearing durable, functional clothing inspired by construction workers and military personnel. This trend reflected a broader interest in practicality and durability in streetwear. It was about creating clothing that could withstand the demands of everyday life while still looking stylish. This blend of functionality and fashion became a key element of the minimalist aesthetic.

Moreover, the Donda era was marked by a sense of introspection and spirituality, which was reflected in Kanye's clothing choices. There was a sense of stripping away the superficial and focusing on what was essential. This minimalist approach resonated with a generation that was increasingly disillusioned with consumerism and seeking more meaningful forms of expression. Kanye's style became a symbol of this shift, representing a desire for authenticity and simplicity in a complex world.

The Enduring Impact

Kanye West's influence on streetwear from 2017 to 2022 is undeniable. He has consistently pushed boundaries, challenged conventions, and set new trends. His impact extends beyond just clothing; it encompasses music, art, and culture. He has used his platform to promote creativity, innovation, and individuality.

His collaborations with Adidas have redefined the sneaker industry, creating highly sought-after designs that have influenced countless other brands. His Yeezy Season collections have introduced new silhouettes and color palettes that have shaped the broader fashion landscape. He has also championed emerging designers and artists, providing them with a platform to showcase their work.

Kanye's ability to blend high fashion with streetwear has blurred the lines between these two worlds, creating a more inclusive and dynamic fashion ecosystem. He has shown that fashion can be both luxurious and accessible, both exclusive and inclusive. He has also demonstrated the power of fashion as a form of self-expression, allowing individuals to communicate their identities and values through their clothing choices.

While his personal style and public persona have often been controversial, his impact on the fashion industry is undeniable. He has inspired a generation of designers, artists, and consumers to embrace creativity, individuality, and innovation. He has also challenged the industry to become more sustainable, ethical, and inclusive. Kanye West's legacy in streetwear will continue to be felt for years to come, shaping the future of fashion in ways that we cannot yet imagine. So, whether you love him or hate him, you gotta admit the guy's got style.