How Outkast’s style sets the stage for their timeless Southern hip-hop
André 3000 and Big Boi have not only influenced genres of music, but also societal norms by simply giving the world lyrics, laughter and authenticity to express ourselves not only in dance and rap but also in personal style.
Whenever I attend live musical concerts, I usually observe three key attributes: the stage, the lyrical introduction to a song and the performers’ style of dress.
As I consider my last Outkast concert, these three components were key to my enjoyment, but I can clearly say the personal style of André 3000 and Big Boi stood out. Theirs is an intentional fashion collaboration of experimental avant-garde and Southern hip-hop.
As time has evolved, these two musical icons have continued to match their lyrics to their style. The result is ironically unmatched, because of how brilliantly their vision accompanies their talents for dropping timeless hip-hop.
And because it all looks and sounds “So Fresh, So Clean” together, their style is replicated daily, not only in Atlanta and the South but throughout the modern world.
About the Author
Darryl Lesure is a style anthropologist, longtime Atlantan by way of Detroit, and owner of That Part, a styling and consultancy firm based in Atlanta.
