Scott Weiland's Hybrid Style

Photo Credits: Belowempty.com, GettyImages, Corbis, Google Images

Stone Temple Pilots, challenged the grunge of the 90’s with melodic Beatles-y pop, infused with Zepplinesque riffs, tied together with Weiland’s stream of conscious lyrics which conjured images of black clouds and purple flowers. Scott Weiland's music does not neatly fit into any sub genres of rock, yet is unquestionably rock n' roll. Likewise, his style encapsulates the best aspects of rock n’ roll fashion.

After going through the picture archives on belowempty.com (the source for everything STP related) it is clear that Scott Weiland is a true showman who understands that a concert is an audio experience as well as visual spectacle. Weiland's style takes its cues from rock legends such as David Bowie, John Lennon, Keith Richards and Iggy Pop.

If you have seen Scott Weiland live you know what a dynamic performer he is, but for the purposes of this post I will focus on his stage outfit. He is serious musician who clearly has fun dressing up. Weiland has performed wearing Kiss makeup, dressed as Hedwig, and even like a member of Judas Priest. A typical show will go as follows: Weiland takes the stage fully layered and accessorized with a leather jacket, fitted blazer, or fur coat, mirrored aviators, assorted scarves and a hat. After the first few songs, the hat and shades come off and he sheds a layer to reveal a patterned button down, a vintage t-shirt, or a simple white tank. The songs ensue, he dances, and his chemistry with the audience is infectious. For the last two songs including the anthem “Sex Type Thing” Scott is shirtless displaying his lithe torso and arms adorned in tattoos. On one particular STP tour, Scott ended the show by stripping down to nothing more that an American Flag wrapped around his waist. Unfortunately I didn’t have the privilege of being at that show or for any of STP's performances before 2008 (I became a fan a little late in the game). These days he performs in a three piece suit, or a simple blazer accented with a bare chest.

Fortunately for all SW fans Scott Weiland now has a clothing line, a collaboration with Christopher Wicks’ of “English Laundry”. “Scott Weiland for English Laundry” is a collection of blazers, button downs, and vests all evocative of Weiland’s signature look. I assume the collection is intended for a male consumer, but I’m sure girls can also pull it off. I often take men’s clothes to the tailor to get fitted. All this talk about Scott Weiland’s style makes me wonder if I’m more psyched for English Laundry or the upcoming Stone Temple Pilots album?

Check out Scott Weiland for English Laundry here.