If you’re a Playboi Carti fan, you might’ve used the phrase, “that’s so Opium” before, and not in reference to the narcotic drug. When we say “Opium,” we’re talking about Carti’s record label and the style that comes with it. But what does that look like? Why are Carti’s die-hard fans all dressed like this?
Since his break onto the scene back in 2015 with his single “Broke Boi,” Playboi Carti has always been known for his style know-how, signing for AWGE headed by A$AP Rocky (another fashion legend in the rap world) just a year later. His style has progressed pretty dramatically over the years too, being heavily streetwear-inspired like his looks throughout his self titled and “Die Lit” eras from 2017 to 2019.
He switched things up in 2020, when he started being seen with bold red dreads and a lot of 1017 ALYX 9SM, Givenchy (basically anything Matthew M. Williams) and Rick Owens. After the release of his highly popular yet controversial album “Whole Lotta Red,” Carti would go on to build a really tight relationship with Demna, constantly rocking his Balenciaga as he was heavily influenced by his close work with Ye and his Donda album. He would keep this dark, punk-infused aesthetic up until this year where he altered his style, once again.
This time around, Carti introduced Timberland’s 6-inch boots into the rotation, constantly rocking them with numerous fur coats and jackets as well as oversized leather blouson jackets. He’s also leaned into late ‘90s nostalgia, rocking basketball jerseys the wrong way around and polo shirts with durags, bandanas and fitted caps for an updated, retro Hip-Hop style.
With the “Opium” style referring to the all-black, oversized punk look, the agenda on the style is slowly changing, thanks to Carti’s very own style change. Fans have been seen wearing both styles.
In terms of footwear, it’s either chunky black boots from Balenciaga or Rick Owens or Timberland boots he’s been rocking recently and paired with extremely baggy, dark wash denim.
There’s a big range of tops to choose from, with his new basketball jersey obsession in heavy rotation for many fans or biker-style leather jackets from cult brands like PHTMNE and NO/FAITH STUDIOS that are synonymous with Carti’s fanbase. Bomber jackets and fur jackets are popular here too, keeping it very in tune with the rapper’s own preferences.
To top it all off, accessories are crucial to every Carti fan’s outfits, with Ushanka’s or fitted caps - bonus points if it’s got pointy ears - being their weapons of choice. Chunky chains and wallet chains are always good to look out for, especially if they’re Chrome Hearts.
Whether you love him or hate him, you’ve got to admit: Playboi Carti’s got some serious motion. As long as he keeps being him, anything he tries and wears more than twice will always pop off - just ask the kids that’ve paid over £1,000 for Balenciaga’s Steroid Boots because of him.
Featured image via @mangomaat ©
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