Actual Homeless Man Inspiring Fashion in China

Sick of hearing about homeless chic? It's getting to be just about as tired as talk of plus-size models on the runway. But, while everyone from Erin Wasson to The Sartorialist and Barneys have weighed in on the discussion, never before has an actual homeless person gained fans as a result of their sartorial prowess. Although, that's exactly what's happening in China. Apparently the personal style of a homeless man living in Ningbo, China has sparked the interest of "thousands of online fans," says the Independent.

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“Web users in China have called him the ‘Beggar Prince’, the ‘Handsome Vagabond’, and, most often, ‘Brother Sharp’.” So, what’s so fashionable about the anonymous Mr. Sharp? “He is 5ft 8in, around 35 years old, and always has a cigarette between his fingers. He also appears to have a fondness for women’s clothes, which has only served to fuel his status as a fashion icon.” Apparently fans are so transfixed with the vagabond’s style, some have dubbed him the “most handsome underdog of this century,” says a Chinese source.

Who knew Wasson’s controversial comments from back in September of 2008 would find themselves so accepted just two years later? Whether it’s the nonchalance, the layering, or the dabbling in women’s wear, homeless attire has become bizzarly enticing to hipster Millenials. After all, if there’s one thing fashion and hipsters both adore: it’s irony mixed with just a bit of shock and awe. Besides, isn’t homeless chic really just the epitome of inconspicuous shopping? Seems right up the alley of another exhausted reference: the recession.