Tyler, the Designer: How the “Flower Boy” is Making a Name for Himself in Fashion

From rapping the entirety of “Wolf” in the shower to daydreaming about spending all our money on Golf Wang attire, how did we get here?

With six studio albums and over 22 million monthly listeners, Tyler, the Creator is a force to be reckoned with. As the eccentric rapper’s career picked up, so did his fashion endeavors. The geeky, lovable “flower boy” converted his West Coast-inspired style into an impressive catalog that went on to influence an entire generation.

What is Golf Wang?

Golf Wang, Tyler’s brainchild, is where he gets to “call the shots.” In an interview with The Fader, Tyler “admits to feeling most fulfilled when he has complete creative control.”

Founded in 2011, Golf Wang is an anagram for Wolf Gang, his former music group. What started as a merch line evolved into a fashion empire. The body-inclusive, energetic brand creates refreshingly unique clothing, jewelry, shoes and much more, all of which drop biannually for Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter.

While part of the brand’s prosperity is due to the designer’s wild musical success, much of the credit can be attributed to brand collaborations. Working with companies such as Levi’s and Converse (which didn’t stifle his growth like another shoe brand) put Golf Wang on the map and led to an increased following.

Today, the magnetic line continues to prosper and test the bounds of fashion as Tyler sees fit. In his words, “everything with T is […] what he wanted,” which made his fans want it just as bad.

Golf x Converse

Nike has its swoosh. Adidas has its stripes. Tyler, the Creator has his flowers.

Over the course of a long-standing partnership with Converse, Tyler designed numerous shoes under three models: One Star, Chuck 70 and the Gianno. Using funky colors and patterns, as well as implementing his signature flower mark, no shoe falls flat.

The trendsetter’s sneakerhead status proves that footwear is as important as any other aspect of your look. Whether you’re more fond of the newer, chunky Giannos or the classic One Stars, it’s safe to say these sneakers are a breath of fresh air. The darling kicks have everyone (even non-sneakerheads, such as myself) ready to “RUNITUP” and empty their wallets for a pair.

Suicoke x Golf

Suicoke, the fun, younger brother to Birkenstock, is one of the lesser-known brands to collaborate with Golf Wang. I’ll admit it: I hadn’t heard of Suicoke until its iconic pairing with Golf, but man was I missing out!

The word is versatility, my darling. The Japanese footwear brand merged with Golf Wang on multiple occasions to create unique, colorful sandals similar to that of Birkenstocks. These pieces can be dressed up or down, and are perfect for a beach day, night out or just lounging around at home. With or without socks, these sandals are bound to elevate any outfit. Understandably, the world is obsessed.

Golf le FLEUR Rebranded

Gone are the days of dependency. Golf le FLEUR, a subset of Golf Wang, sent the internet into a frenzy as Tyler unearthed its rebrand in December 2021. Prior to this launch, Golf le FLEUR’s work consisted entirely of brand collabs, the most notable being with Converse and Lacoste. This new venture seeks to have the company stand on its own and be regarded as a more luxurious, high-end company (with prices to match).

As the creative continues to grow, so do his aspirations. The latest beauty-centric collection includes a nail polish set and fragrance, along with clothing and a suitcase line in collaboration with Globe-Trotter.

BRB, channeling my inner cool girl with this drop.

Le FLEUR x Lacoste

“Tyler, the Creator” and “tennis” are words I'd never think to combine. Luckily, the visionary’s sight is way ahead of the curve.

In 2019, Golf le FLEUR teamed up with Lacoste to deliver the colorful collection of our fitness dreams. The French-inspired drop featured a unisex wardrobe consisting of polos, joggers, windbreakers and more. With a subtle pastel color scheme, Tyler was careful not to draw too much attention while maintaining a clean look.

It’s been two and a half years, and I’m still pining over this collab.

With a catalog as long as dynamic as the mogul behind it, it’s no question that Golf Wang and Golf le FLEUR will continue to grow and dominate the fashion industry. Tyler, the Creator is the future. Get on board or get lost! Even then, you know who to call.

Strike Out,

Writer: Kaicha Noel

Editor: AJ Bafer

Graphics: Chloe Girod

Gainesville