AMERICAN SABOTAGE

By Deputy Fashion Editor Sinead Sheridan

It is undeniable that the rapper/songwriter A$AP Rocky currently is one of the most influential figures in fashion. Since his music debut in 2010 his style mainly consisting of flannels, hoodies and snapbacks was an accurate reflection on the streetwear style at the time. His unique style mainly featured Supreme, a brand known for its bold logo that dominated this genre of fashion. Adidas was another brand that was present in his style as his friendship with the designer Jeremy Scott materialised into a collaborative three-way sneaker collection in 2013.

His love for fashion design is visible through the multiple collaborations he participated in  throughout  the years, from JW Anderson to Guess Originals. As we moved to the mid 2010s, his clothes became more tailored. Blazers and casual jackets were a prominent feature in his wardrobe. The Teddy Bomber Jacket designed by Yves Saint Laurent worn by the rapper was hugely influential. The muted colours suddenly became more bright as A$AP began to experiment with texture as he styled contrasting textures that broke the fashion ‘rules’. He wore pieces by Gucci and Balenciaga that enforced the boldness within his style. 

As of now, the anticipation of his upcoming album, Don’t Be Dumb  is accompanied by a fresh image of suits and sunglasses. Although some elements are reminiscent of his early style that consisted of the tailored clothes and aspects of muted colours, it has become more modern. This new style debuted last year, in his very first fashion show by his label AWGE. The show titled ‘AMERICAN SABOTAGE’ was certainly eye-catching, along with the featured pieces. The show's venue was Hôtel de Maisons in France and had many famous attendees such as Pusha T to his girlfriend Rihanna. 

Once the show began, snippets of unreleased songs from his highly anticipated album set to release this year blasted throughout. The show's satirical nature was made up of balaclavas, camouflage print, suits and even bulletproof vests were layered in a stylish manner whilst maintaining a deeper message that went beyond just satire. The show was a clear political commentary on the state of America. Models holding up signs of the slogan Don’t Be Dumb was a direct representation of the political protests in America right now as we live in a time of anxiety and existential dread due to the certain leaders holding such power within the USA. Cakes plastered with the imagery of the American flag, guns and money were served to each guest. One cake specifically had the words ‘It’s easier to buy a gun than a cake’. As the show came to a close with a loud applause, Asap Rocky came out with a bomber jacket with his own mugshot on the back of it.

As of now, the Asap Rocky gun trial has finally concluded after two weeks with the verdict of ‘not guilty’. The strange fascination of courtroom fashion was definitely present during this trial. The media could not get enough of his suits, long coats and sunglasses as it aesthetically aligned with the popular office core aesthetic. This trial clearly will not have a negative impact on his image as he was recently announced to be the new creative director of RayBan glasses with his collection being released in April. His fashion on trial garnered more attention than his last fashion show, even though the style was very similar. Did he carry the ‘controversial’ message he tried to portray in his runway show, of everything that is wrong with America, stronger within  his own trial?