Wale's Year In Style

Image via Complex Original

Wale's sophomore follow-up Ambition finally drops today ending a two-year drought. The DC native kept busy in between albums, releasing a mixtape and moving labels to join Rick Ross’ Maybach Music Group and put down impressive features on Self Made Vol. 1. Known for his love of kicks, Wale also pays attention to the clothes he puts on his back. This year alone, his throwback game got everyone’s attention and got dudes back on eBay searching for rare numbers. So take a look back at Wale’s Year in Style while you jam to the new album. We outchea!

WHEN: January 2011

WHERE: NYC

Complex says: Fresh J’s on his feet, Wale ties everything together with a BBC varsity jacket and Commonwealth fitted.

WHEN: January 2011

WHERE: NYC

Complex says: Adrienne Bailon might be taking all his shine, but we do notice the crispy denim Wale is wearing.

WHEN: April 2011

WHERE: 106 and Park

Complex says: The bubble vest stays in style, perfect for in-between seasons.

WHEN: June 2011

WHERE: Hot 97 Summer Jam

Complex says: Wale wins the NYC crowd at Hot 97's Summer Jam coming out in a throwback John Starks jersey.

WHEN: August 2011

WHERE: Philadelphia, PA

Complex says: This won’t be the last time you see a jersey on this list, Wale has been seen wearing a steady rotation of throwbacks this year.

WHEN: August 2011

WHERE: Washington, DC

Complex says: Wale stays with the worn denim look, and if your looking for some dope ones check out the best available now.

WHEN: August 2011

WHERE: Atlanta, GA

Complex says:  A simple Stephen Sprouse x Louis Vuitton T-shirt subtly matched with the kicks completes the outfit.

WHEN: August 2011

WHERE: Miami, FL

Complex says: Rocking an Angel’s jersey while entertaining the crowd at one of his Red Star Access shows this year.

WHEN: August 2011

WHERE: Miami, FL

Complex says: We’re all for throwbacks just as long as they fit well like this Houston Rockets jersey.

WHEN: August 2011

WHERE: Chicago

Complex says: Take care of your denim and wash it properly with these instructions and maybe you can get it to Wale’s level.

WHEN: October 2011

WHERE: BET Hip-Hop Awards

Complex says: Murdered out black, Wale shows how to wear all the same colors correctly.

WHEN: October 2011

WHERE: BET Hip-Hop Awards

Complex says: Can’t go wrong with a good old brown leather jacket and simple white T-shirt.

WHEN: October 2011

WHERE: Unknown

Complex Says: What is that—croc skin? Wale makes sure it's real by feeling on the sleeves. Damn, that's the best custom varsity we've seen so far.