Making a Case For J. Cole's Underrated Style

The rap game's most stylish underdog.

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Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

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J. Cole's second album, Born Sinner, dropped yesterday, and while Kanye West is getting a lot of the shine, Cole also deserves some credit for his skills on the mic. It's hard for any artist to be noticed during Yeezy season, with the Internet buzzing about 'Ye's bombastic beats and intense fashion. But we never doubted J. Cole's sense of style. He has a discerning eye when it comes to his sartorial choices, and he's definitely one of the best dressed rappers in the game right now.

That's right—we said best dressed, and here's why: He's wearing all of the brands your favorite rappers aren't on yet like AMI Alexandre Mattiussi, Carven, and Avelon. Maybe you aren't noticing because you're not looking closely enough. Guys with real style wear dope clothes in silence. Plus, he's not wearing leather pants and dressing in all black like the rest of the artists in the game. Respect! 

After the leather circle-jerk that was Summer Jam 2013, it's refreshing to see a guy who approaches not only his music and lifestyle with individuality, but with the way he dresses, too. We're Making a Case for J. Cole's Underrated Style

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He seamlessly incorporates streetwear into his look.

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He knows the importance of balancing out patterns.

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He wears varsity jackets like an MVP.

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He can let one piece do all the talking.

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Fashion magazines praise his subtle style.

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He's stylish without scaring off fans with crazy "fashion" looks.

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He makes runway pieces work in real life.

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He's on his own, non-goth leather wave.

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He doesn't rely on other rappers' co-signs to dictate what he wears.

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He takes the road less traveled.

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