Trinidad James Talks About Breaking Barriers in Fashion
“It’s just interesting to see how everything I was bashed for, people now wear.”
Union has recently linked up with Trinidad James to talk about fashion, masculinity and breaking barriers in music and culture. James, who recently released his Father FiGGA EP, talks about how he is inspired by the 1970s, punk rock and his Caribbean heritage. The Atlanta-based rapper also spoke about his inspirations and why gender is a construct that shouldn’t apply to clothing. Read a few highlights from the interview below, see out a few shots from the photoshoot above and check out the entire interview via Union.
Traditionally, a lot of black style has incorporated elements of the masculine and feminine. How do you think you channel that?
I think the key is to see past ideas of masculine or feminine and figure out the purpose behind your fashion choices.
Tailoring has also played a huge role for you. You’ve been wearing fitted trousers since before it was a trend in hip-hop. What has been the most interesting thing about the evolution of fashion as it pertains to rap?
For me, the main thing has been my confidence has grown. Five to seven years ago people would ridicule you if your pants were “slim” or “skinny.” It’s just interesting to see how everything I was bashed for people now wear and think they’ve started as a trend.
How would you describe your current sense of style?
My current style is a little bit all over the place. I will say, now that I’m a little more seasoned I do like to call it “Trendy DAD.”
