Breaking Down The Weeknd’s Very Specific Uniform

To a certain extent, all men have a uniform. Once you know what works on you, it’s hard to avoid wearing it all the time. Absolute style pros will latch on to something that feels directional in addition to being flattering. Take for example Abel Tesfaye, a.k.a. The Weeknd, whose personal uniform is a defining look in menswear right now.

When we shot the musician wearing Kanye West’s highly anticipated Adidas collection, he looked no different than he does in real life—slim black jeans, longer T-shirt, boxy jacket, and fine-looking sneakers. It’s a polished, beautifully proportioned combo that works just as well for an all-night rager as it does for an early-morning coffee meeting. And it’s having a moment. Sure, Tesfaye didn’t invent it (Kanye and other artists before him played a part), but he’s certainly owning it. And that’s kind of the whole point of a uniform, right?

WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA - AUGUST 30: Abel Tesfaye, aka The Weeknd attends the Republic Records Private Post-VMA Celebration at Ysabel on August 30, 2015 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Gabriel Olsen/FilmMagic)FilmMagic

Boxy Jacket. Tesfaye’s partial to bomber jackets, jean jackets, and military-style coats in boxy cuts. Pockets are essential ’cause the red carpet can get awkward.

TORONTO, ON - JUNE 21: The Weeknd arrives at the 2015 MuchMusic Video Awards at MuchMusic HQ on June 21, 2015 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by Isaiah Trickey/FilmMagic)FilmMagic

Longer T-Shirt. A T-shirt cut in a roomier fit that’s longer than the hem of the jacket is a go-to for Tesfaye, who mostly wears them in black.

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 24: Music artist The Weeknd attends the 2015 UJA-Federation Of New York Music Visionary Of The Year Award Luncheon at The Pierre Hotel on June 24, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Brad Barket/Getty Images)Getty Images

Slim Black Jeans. The perfect pair bunches up at the knees and ankles and looks roomy enough to breathe in. Ink black is the only choice; no distressed blues here.

HOLLYWOOD, CA - JUNE 25: The Weeknd attends the premiere of "Amy" at ArcLight Cinemas on June 25, 2015 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic)FilmMagic

Fine-Looking Sneakers. Pared-down, luxed-up sneakers of all varieties are the icing on the cake. Stan Smiths might be too dainty here, but souped-up Superstars always work.