LA-Based Grammy Artist Miguel on His "Dangerous, Sexy" Style

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Miguel, the 28-year-old LA native singer, was just about everywhere last year. Known for his unique sound that blends R&B, hip hop and rock, he won a 2013 Grammy for his hit song "Adorn" and earned two 2014 noms for his collabs with J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar. (And let's not forget his Mariah Carey moment.) He also caught the eye of the fashion set with his distinct sense of style and posed in McQueen, Margiela and Alexander Wang for MR PORTER. We caught up with the rising star before his Levi's Grammy kick-off show at Hollywood's Fonda Theatre to talk style, shopping and Sade.

Though full-scale designs remain in the pipeline (he's looking to team up with "a brand or two" on looks that coincide with the release of his new music), the singer has already tested the waters by linking with Jay-Z approved T-shirt line Deer Dana. In addition to landing his own mug on a tee, Miguel collaborated on tributes to Sade and Grace Jones. "The honest truth is that I don't see enough shirts with Sade or Grace Jones on them and they are f*cking amazing!" he explains. "Who doesn't want to wear Sade?"

About his look: Miguel has been working with LA-based stylist Jasmine Benjamin for the past two years, and she tells us that their work together is fine-tuned "almost down to a science." The two are in constant communication over his looks to the point that entire outfits can be pulled using what Benjamin calls "code names" she receives directly from Miguel. "We're actually really selective," the artist adds. "It's more about what the look communicates. I'm not much of a talker, so I like things that communicate 'bold' and 'confident.' They are not overbearing, but they are powerful and catch your eye."

When Miguel does his own shopping, he explains that he "always starts with Saint Laurent and Opening Ceremony," and professed his love for vintage gear from smaller boutiques. Although he didn't spill his secret vintage treasure troves, for new collections he praised Hedi Slimane's new take on Saint Laurent: "Their silhouettes fit my taste." Benjamin counts Costume National, UNIF and McQ by Alexander McQueen as major players in his "counter-culture, dangerous, sexy vibe." Like any loyal stylist, Benjamin was also reluctant to reveal her sources, but named American Rag CIE and Maxfield as two must-shop retailers.

Born and raised in San Pedro, Miguel now lives near Marina del Rey. He spends most of his free time at home but does enjoy chilling at small bars around Venice. He says he shies away from Abbot Kinney because "it gets a little hectic over there."
· Miguel [Official Site]
· Levi's [Official Site]
· Inside the Grammy Gift Lounge: Guitars, Vegas Vacays, More [Racked]