When you think of a red carpet, images of high fashion, glittering gowns, and meticulously tailored suits probably come to mind. It’s a space where the best of the fashion world converges to flaunt their most glamorous and often elaborate styles. But among the sea of well-dressed celebrities, Ed Sheeran has stood out in his own way—not by blending in with the extravagant trends, but by carving out his own lane of comfort, simplicity, and authenticity. Ed Sheeran’s unique approach to fashion defies convention, showcasing a style that is laid-back yet undeniably impactful.
Introduction to Ed Sheeran’s Unique Fashion Style
Ed Sheeran has never been one to adhere to the typical glamorous fashion norms, especially when it comes to the red carpet. While many artists and actors see the red carpet as an opportunity to push boundaries in haute couture, Sheeran’s aesthetic remains grounded in a more casual, relatable vibe. His approach to fashion has always echoed his musical style—unpretentious, honest, and effortlessly cool.
At a time when artists are increasingly scrutinized for their appearance and outfits, Sheeran’s sartorial choices seem refreshingly authentic. He wears clothes that fit his personality rather than clothes that conform to fashion expectations. While others turn to bespoke suits and avant-garde ensembles, Ed is content with hoodies, jeans, sneakers, and t-shirts. In many ways, his laid-back approach has become a signature style—one that stands out precisely because it’s understated.
But while Sheeran might seem like he’s wearing “just” a hoodie or “just” a pair of sneakers, his choices are never random. There’s a deliberate thought behind his outfits—whether it’s maintaining his personal brand or subtly rebelling against the norms of red carpet fashion.
Signature Looks: Ed Sheeran’s Most Iconic Red Carpet Moments
Throughout the years, Ed Sheeran has graced countless red carpets, and though his style remains grounded in simplicity, there have been some memorable moments that warrant attention. Whether he’s at the Grammy Awards or a movie premiere, Ed consistently balances comfort with style. Let’s take a look at some of his most iconic red carpet looks.
One of Sheeran’s most defining fashion moments occurred at the 2015 Grammy Awards, where he opted for a black suit paired with a skinny tie. While most would expect him to go all-out for such a prestigious event, Ed maintained his signature nonchalance by layering a simple white t-shirt under the suit. It’s this exact blend of formal and casual that makes his style so intriguing—it’s as if Sheeran acknowledges the importance of the occasion but refuses to lose himself in the process.
Then there’s Sheeran’s love for hoodies. Who can forget his appearance at the Brit Awards, where he showed up in a hoodie layered under a blazer? The combination was unorthodox for the event, yet totally in line with his brand. Sheeran has often demonstrated that comfort and authenticity are non-negotiable parts of his fashion choices. While a hoodie might be seen as a wardrobe staple for anyone attending a casual outing, Sheeran proves that it can be red carpet-worthy when paired correctly.
Of course, there have been moments where Sheeran has dressed more traditionally formal, but even then, his approach is decidedly relaxed. Whether it’s swapping dress shoes for sneakers or trading a buttoned-up shirt for a simple tee, Sheeran’s style always embodies an easy-going vibe, even when he’s following a more formal dress code.
Influence of Streetwear and Casual Fashion
A key element of Ed Sheeran’s style is his embrace of streetwear. In a world where red carpet fashion is often associated with designer labels and structured silhouettes, Sheeran incorporates streetwear into his formalwear, blending casual elements with high-end fashion in a way that feels fresh and approachable.
One of the defining features of Sheeran’s red carpet looks is his footwear. Instead of opting for polished leather shoes or designer loafers, Ed often wears sneakers. It’s a choice that not only reflects his love for comfort but also speaks to his connection with streetwear. Ed’s casual footwear, particularly his penchant for simple trainers, often becomes a focal point of his outfits. Sneakers, after all, are emblematic of street culture, and by incorporating them into his formal looks, Sheeran sends a clear message: style doesn’t have to be stuffy or uncomfortable.
Beyond his footwear, Ed Sheeran’s entire aesthetic can be seen as a nod to casual, streetwear-inspired fashion. From oversized t-shirts to zip-up hoodies, his wardrobe is filled with pieces that wouldn’t seem out of place in a skate park. Yet, he wears these items on red carpets, signaling a break from tradition.
There’s a certain ease in his outfits that feels deliberately relatable. Where some celebrities might seem untouchable in their high-fashion looks, Sheeran’s streetwear-inspired outfits bridge the gap between the celebrity world and the everyday person. In this way, Sheeran’s casual approach to fashion feels inclusive—his style is something fans can emulate, and in a broader sense, it challenges the idea that fashion has to be intimidating or exclusive.
Collaborations with Designers: When Sheeran Steps into High Fashion
Though Ed Sheeran is best known for his casual, street-inspired style, he has had his moments in high fashion. While he doesn’t frequently collaborate with big-name designers in the way that some of his peers do, there have been occasions where Sheeran has embraced more formalwear or even donned designer pieces.
One example of Sheeran stepping into the world of designer fashion was at the 2020 Global Citizen Prize event. On this occasion, Sheeran wore a sleek suit designed by the British luxury brand Burberry. While still sticking to his preference for comfort (the suit was tailored in a way that allowed for movement and ease), this marked one of the rare instances where Sheeran embraced a more polished, high-fashion look. Still, he remained true to his ethos by pairing the suit with sneakers, once again merging formal with casual in a way that only he can.
While Ed Sheeran doesn’t typically make headlines for his fashion collaborations, his choices resonate with those who value authenticity over labels. When he does partner with designers, it’s on his terms—reflecting his personal style rather than conforming to fashion norms.
Impact on Fans and the Fashion Industry
Ed Sheeran’s fashion choices have resonated deeply with his fan base, many of whom appreciate his down-to-earth approach to style. For fans, Sheeran’s fashion is a reflection of his personality—humble, relatable, and unpretentious. By dressing in clothes that feel accessible, Sheeran creates a sense of connection with his audience. After all, it’s much easier for a fan to emulate his look of sneakers, jeans, and a hoodie than it is to mimic the extravagant couture worn by other stars.
But beyond his fan base, Sheeran’s fashion choices have also made waves in the broader fashion industry. In a world where red carpets are often equated with high fashion, Sheeran’s casual approach challenges conventional ideas about what it means to dress up. He’s part of a growing movement of celebrities who are redefining red carpet fashion, showing that comfort and personal style can coexist with glamour.
In many ways, Sheeran’s approach to fashion is aligned with the growing emphasis on individuality in the fashion world. More and more, celebrities are rejecting traditional fashion rules and embracing their unique styles—whether that means gender-neutral clothing, sustainable fashion, or, in Sheeran’s case, casualwear on the red carpet. His confidence in dressing the way he wants, rather than the way he’s expected to, has made him a quiet disruptor in the fashion world.
Ed Sheeran’s Evolution in Fashion
As with many artists, Ed Sheeran’s style has evolved over the years. In his early career, Sheeran was known for his extremely casual look—think oversized t-shirts, cargo shorts, and worn-out sneakers. At the time, he was more focused on making a name for himself musically, and fashion took a back seat.
However, as Sheeran’s career progressed and he became a household name, his style started to evolve. While he still prioritizes comfort and casualwear, Sheeran’s red carpet looks have become more refined. Over the past few years, he’s embraced more polished silhouettes, from tailored suits to sleek jackets, without losing the elements that make his style distinctly his own.
Even with these changes, one thing remains clear: Ed Sheeran has always stayed true to himself. His fashion choices are not about following trends or pleasing critics, but about feeling comfortable in his own skin. Whether he’s wearing a hoodie at the Brit Awards or a tailored suit at the Grammys, Sheeran’s style is a reflection of who he is—genuine, laid-back, and quietly revolutionary.
Conclusion: Redefining Red Carpet Fashion
Ed Sheeran may not be the first person you think of when it comes to red carpet fashion, but that’s precisely why his style matters. By refusing to conform to traditional expectations, Sheeran has redefined what it means to dress for the red carpet. His style is a reminder that fashion should be about personal expression, not about following rules. Whether he’s in a hoodie or a designer suit, Ed Sheeran’s fashion choices send a powerful message: confidence in your own skin is the best accessory anyone can wear.