Music & Menswear: Andre 3000 as Jimi Hendrix

By Vanessa Lynn, Men’s Style Editor
The more pictures that are leaked, the more excited I get to see Andre 3000 play Jimi Hendrix in the upcoming biopic All is By My Side. Andre 3000 is very much a style icon in his own right. In 2008, he launched his own clothing line called Benjamin Bixby with plans to revive it in the upcoming seasons. To me, Andre 3000 channeling Jimi Hendrix is something so magical that it’s almost too good to be true.Hendrix was my first experience with classic rock that wasn’t bubblegum pop or the Beatles and to have him brought to life again, even for a short while by Andre 3000 is truly cool. I think he’ll do a really excellent job portraying Hendrix, even with the limitations production is encountering. After all, I rather enjoyed his version of the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan show and while not quite the same, I’m hoping the movie will be just as good.

Andre 3000 on set

So how would you achieve the look Andre 3000 is going for in his portrayal of Jimi Hendrix? Start off with a corduroy trouser in an interesting color or a basic neutral bottom. On top wear a button down shirt. Look for solids or prints and patterns that reference the late 60s like bold woven designs or paisley. If you opted for a solid button down, you could layer it with a patterned vest. Either button down option can be paired with a colored suit jacket or one that is military inspired. Hendrix was known for wearing vintage clothing and would often purchase actual military castoffs. Just remember to keep your cuts modern. You want to take inspiration from the 60s and not look like you walked right out of them. In this aspect, channel Andre 3000 and not Jimi Hendrix.

Jimi Hendrix

If you’re feeling daring enough, you could try adding a hat to your ensemble. Hendrix often wore a dark colored hat with a wide brim whereas Andre 3000 usually favors a straw hat. For shoes, you could try a woven leather derby or a Bob Dylan-esque boot, which was an extremely popular footwear option in the late 60s.

To finish off your look, either layer a few interesting necklaces or tie a handkerchief around your neck. If you’re especially daring and have the hair for it, you could even try tying the handkerchief around your forehead like Hendrix did. As last touches, complete your look with a funky stone inset ring and a pair of tinted aviators.

Andre 3000 as Jimi Hendrix
For more Andre 3000, check out one of his most recent musical collaborations: DoYaThing by the Gorillaz featuring Andre 3000 and James Murphy.

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