The Weeknd, born Abel Tesfaye, is a music icon with chart-topping hits and a fashion icon whose evolving style has captured the attention of fans and critics alike. The Weeknd’s style journey mirrors his artistic transformation from his minimalist roots to a bold embrace of retro-inspired aesthetics. Known for blending sophistication with a touch of rebellion, The Weeknd has cemented his place as a trendsetter in both the music and fashion worlds.
The Style Odyssey of The Weeknd
Early Days of Sleek Minimalism
In the early stages of his career, The Weeknd’s style was characterized by understated, minimalist choices that reflected his mysterious persona.
- Neutral Palette: Black and dark tones dominated his wardrobe, emphasizing simplicity and elegance.
- Signature Hair: His iconic freeform dreadlocks became a standout feature, adding an element of individuality to his otherwise understated looks.
- Streetwear Edge: While his palette remained neutral, bomber jackets, hoodies, and slim-fit jeans lent a casual, street-smart edge to his ensembles.
The Starboy Era – Introducing High Fashion
The release of Starboy marked a pivotal moment in The Weeknd’s style evolution.
- Designer Collaborations: Partnering with brands like Puma and Alexander Wang, The Weeknd began integrating high-fashion elements into his wardrobe.
- Red Carpet Ready: Tailored suits with clean lines and unique textures became his signature for formal events.
- Statement Jackets: His love for bold, structured outerwear, like the red leather jacket in the “Starboy” music video, showcased his growing confidence in experimentation.
Retro Cool and the After Hours Era
The After Hours era saw The Weeknd diving headfirst into retro aesthetics, drawing inspiration from the 1980s and ’90s.
- Bright Colors: The vibrant red suit from his Blinding Lights performances became instantly iconic, channelling the glitz and glamour of vintage Las Vegas.
- Vintage Accessories: Sunglasses with retro frames and leather gloves added a polished yet nostalgic touch.
- Narrative Style: His wardrobe choices during this period aligned with the darker, cinematic themes of his music videos and performances.
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The Dawn FM Era – Futuristic Flair
The Weeknd transitioned to a futuristic aesthetic with Dawn FM while retaining his retro influences.
- Monochromatic Ensembles: Streamlined black and white outfits dominated, often accentuated by metallic or reflective elements.
- Ageing Makeup: Hee used prosthetic makeup to appear old for promotional campaigns, pairing this visual storytelling with his sartorial choices.
- Experimental Layers: Long coats, turtlenecks, and asymmetrical designs added depth to his outfits, blending avant-garde with wearability.
Signature Styles
Throughout his career, The Weeknd has cultivated a distinctive style that fans easily recognize.
- The Perfect Jacket: From leather bombers to tailored blazers, outerwear remains a cornerstone of his look.
- Modern Classic Shoes: Loafers, sleek sneakers, and polished boots complete his ensembles.
- Subtle Accessories: Minimalist jewellery and retro sunglasses reflect his preference for understated elegance.
Street Style Inspiration
Off-stage, The Weeknd’s street style is effortless yet stylish.
- Casual Cool: Hoodies, oversized tees, and joggers dominate his everyday looks, often paired with luxury sneakers.
- Monochrome Magic: His casual outfits often stick to a single colour palette, creating a cohesive and polished appearance.
- Statement Sneakers: His footwear choices, such as Yeezys or custom designs, add a fashionable edge to his casual attire.
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Red Carpet Moments
The Weeknd has delivered unforgettable red carpet-looks that highlight his evolving taste.
- Sleek Suits: His tailored black tuxedo at the 2021 Billboard Music Awards exemplified modern elegance.
- Pop of Color: Bold choices, like the purple suit he wore to the 2016 Oscars, showcased his growing confidence in experimenting with colour.
Fashion in Music Videos
The Weeknd uses fashion to tell stories in his music videos, elevating his visuals to cinematic masterpieces.
- Blinding Lights: The red suits symbolised chaos and glamour, reflecting the song’s themes of excess and heartbreak.
- Save Your Tears: Prosthetics and retro outfits highlighted themes of self-reflection and fame’s impact.
The Trendsetter Effect
The Weeknd’s influence on fashion goes beyond his style.
- Hair Inspiration: His iconic dreadlocks sparked a wave of similar hairstyles among fans.
- Menswear Revolution: By blending formalwear with streetwear, he’s inspired a generation of men to embrace versatile dressing.
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Sustainable Choices
Recently, The Weeknd has shown interest sustainably and ethically.
- Charity Collaborations: He’s worked with brands to release collections supporting environmental causes.
- Timeless Pieces: His preference for durable, classic clothing reduces the need for fast fashion and promotes longevity in style.
Conclusion
The Weeknd’s style evolution is a testament to his artistry and willingness to experiment. From sleek minimalism to bold retro influences, his fashion journey mirrors his musical growth. Whether he’s on stage, walking the red carpet, or spotted in casual streetwear, The Weeknd continues to redefine modern menswear, leaving a legacy as one of the most stylish artists of our time.
