Baseball players have turned arm sleeves into more than just functional gear - they’re now a way to express personality, heritage, and style. These sleeves, originally designed to improve circulation and prevent injuries, have become a staple for MLB stars looking to stand out. Here’s a quick rundown of the 10 players who’ve redefined arm-sleeve fashion in the MLB:
- Bryce Harper: Known for his bold black sleeve, Harper blends resilience with style, especially after his Tommy John surgery.
- Yasiel Puig: His vibrant designs celebrated his Cuban roots and brought flair to the game.
- Yoenis Cespedes: Introduced neon sleeves in 2015, sparking a trend and creating iconic moments like the "Rally Parakeet."
- Shohei Ohtani: Combines minimalist designs and advanced technology to honor his Japanese heritage.
- Francisco Lindor: Uses vibrant, culturally inspired sleeves to showcase his Puerto Rican pride.
- Carlos Correa: Blends professional style with personal meaning, often honoring his Latin roots.
- Mookie Betts: Keeps it simple with clean, understated designs, letting his performance shine.
- Marcus Stroman: Fearlessly bold with colorful patterns, reflecting his individuality and confidence.
- Tommy Bergjans: Focuses on functional, performance-driven sleeves for modern athletes.
- Shota Imanaga: Utilizes Japanese-engineered Kinetic Arm sleeves for injury prevention and precision.
Quick Comparison
| Player | Style | Key Feature | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bryce Harper | Bold black designs | Resilience and custom flair | Compression, injury support |
| Yasiel Puig | Vibrant, high-energy | Cuban heritage | UV protection, individuality |
| Yoenis Cespedes | Neon trendsetter | Eye-catching neon colors | Performance and visibility |
| Shohei Ohtani | Minimalist and sleek | Japanese “Kokoro” designs | Arm health, cultural connection |
| Francisco Lindor | Bright and cultural | Puerto Rican-inspired patterns | Thermoregulation, personal expression |
| Carlos Correa | Team-coordinated | Sleek and meaningful designs | Muscle support, heritage representation |
| Mookie Betts | Subtle and clean | Minimalist seasonal themes | Grip, sweat management |
| Marcus Stroman | Bold and fearless | Colorful, energetic designs | Compression, confidence boost |
| Tommy Bergjans | Functional and modern | Performance-focused patterns | Blood circulation, injury prevention |
| Shota Imanaga | Precision-engineered | Japanese Kinetic Arm tech | Injury prevention, arm angle support |
These players have turned arm sleeves into a mix of function and fashion, inspiring fans and athletes alike. Whether it’s bold neon, cultural designs, or sleek minimalism, arm sleeves now reflect the unique identity of MLB’s biggest stars.
Baseball Drip like the Pro's
1. Bryce Harper
Bryce Harper combines fierce on-field energy with a flair for bold style. His choice of arm sleeves not only highlights his personality but also showcases his willingness to push boundaries both in the game and beyond.
Design Uniqueness
Harper's iconic black arm sleeve, which he continued to wear even during his injury recovery in August 2024, is a perfect example of how he merges function with style. While playing through elbow and wrist injuries for the Philadelphia Phillies, Harper sported this sleeve, showing that even in tough physical conditions, he remains committed to his signature look.
What truly sets Harper apart is his dedication to custom designs. While most players stick to their team colors, Harper takes it a step further, opting for designs that enhance his overall style. From his custom-made cleats to embroidered logo hats, every detail of his game-day appearance is carefully curated. This attention to detail not only makes him stand out but also aligns perfectly with his determined mindset both on and off the field.
Cultural or Personal Significance
Harper's arm-sleeve choices go beyond aesthetics - they represent his relentless drive for performance and self-expression. His philosophy is rooted in confidence and maintaining a competitive edge, even when facing physical hurdles. Speaking about his approach to playing through injuries, Harper once said:
"I just have to. It's part of the game. It's part of the process of going through a season. Just got to stay the course and understand that I rely heavy on my body."
The black sleeve became a symbol of his resilience, particularly during his extraordinary comeback just 160 days after undergoing Tommy John surgery on his right elbow.
Influence on Fan Trends
Harper's ability to blend performance with style has reshaped baseball fashion and sparked fan trends. His influence is evident in the growing popularity of officially licensed Bryce Harper compression arm sleeves, available through retailers like License Champs. This shows how his personal style has successfully transitioned into marketable fan merchandise. Fans are so familiar with Harper's signature look that they quickly notice when he deviates from it, like wearing sleeves in colors other than his trademark black.
Harper's impact extends beyond his personal brand, contributing to a larger trend in MLB where players use their "drip" - a combination of swagger and style - as a form of self-expression. Arm sleeves have become a key part of this movement, with Harper leading the charge.
2. Yasiel Puig
Yasiel Puig brought an electrifying energy to MLB with his fearless style and flair. Nicknamed the "Wild Horse" by Vin Scully, Puig didn’t just make waves with his performance - his bold arm-sleeve choices redefined how players could express themselves on the field.
Design Uniqueness
Puig’s arm sleeves, much like his unmistakable glove, became a signature part of his image. He wasn’t afraid to push the boundaries of baseball’s traditional look, opting for bold and dynamic designs that matched his high-energy playing style.
For Puig, baseball wasn’t just a game - it was a show. His arm sleeves played a crucial role in that spectacle, amplifying his presence on the field while inspiring a wave of expressive gear choices among players. These designs weren’t just about aesthetics - they were a reflection of his cultural pride and his passion for the game.
Cultural or Personal Significance
Puig’s arm-sleeve style went beyond fashion; it was a cultural statement. In a sport known for its conservative traditions, his choices stood out as a challenge to the norm, celebrating his Cuban heritage and his love for baseball. His boldness encouraged other players to embrace their individuality and bring emotion to the field, a shift that resonated with fans and players alike.
Dodgers catcher A.J. Ellis highlighted how Puig changed the team dynamic:
"It's pretty amazing. It's pretty special to be a part of. It just doesn't seem like he's slowing down. He's definitely changed the culture in this clubhouse."
Puig’s style wasn’t just about looking good - it was about making a statement. His sleeves became a symbol of how personal expression could go hand in hand with athletic excellence.
Influence on Fan Trends
Puig’s impact on baseball fashion didn’t stop with his own gear. His willingness to showcase his personality through arm sleeves and other equipment opened the door for a new generation of players to see style as an essential part of their identity on the field. This shift has helped attract younger, more diverse audiences to the sport.
Even nearly a decade after his breakout season, Puig’s influence is still felt in MLB culture. Culture in Sports reflected on his legacy:
"I am grateful for the way Puig chose to play the game, and make ripples in the culture of baseball that we are now seeing the effects of almost a decade later."
Puig’s approach to arm sleeves wasn’t just about function - it was about expression. He showed players that gear could be a form of personal branding and fan connection, setting a new standard for how baseball players present themselves both on and off the field.
3. Yoenis Cespedes
Yoenis Cespedes brought a splash of flair to Major League Baseball by introducing the neon arm sleeve, breaking away from the understated look of traditional on-field gear. His bold fashion choice not only turned heads but also reshaped how players approached their on-field style.
A Bold Fashion Statement
On August 12, 2015, after enduring two hitless games, Cespedes decided to switch things up. He stepped onto the field for the Mets wearing a bright neon sleeve on his left arm. In the 8th inning of that game against the Rockies, he hit his first home run for the team. The vivid canary-yellow sleeve, which he sometimes paired with a matching neon necklace, stood out sharply against the Mets' blue uniforms, making it impossible to ignore. This eye-catching look not only became his signature but also left a lasting impression on fans and players alike.
A Moment of Magic
That same day at Citi Field, a parakeet appeared just as Cespedes hit his breakthrough home run, earning the nickname "Rally Parakeet." The neon sleeve quickly became a symbol of more than just style - it represented boldness, individuality, and even a touch of good fortune. Throughout the 2015 season, Cespedes would occasionally don the neon sleeve, with fans associating it with his standout moments and the quirky superstition surrounding the "Rally Parakeet."
A Trendsetter in MLB
Cespedes’ neon sleeve didn’t just stay on his arm - it sparked a movement. Fans embraced the look, especially during the Mets' exciting 2015 postseason run, where the sleeve became a kind of rallying symbol for the team. Beyond the Mets, Cespedes' daring choice influenced a shift across MLB, as more players began experimenting with vibrant, attention-grabbing arm sleeves. His success while sporting such a bold accessory helped usher in a new era of expressive athletic fashion, proving that performance and personality could go hand in hand on the diamond.
4. Shohei Ohtani
Shohei Ohtani has left an undeniable mark on baseball, not just with his skills but also with his thoughtful approach to athletic gear. His arm sleeves, in particular, blend performance-enhancing functionality with a subtle tribute to his heritage.
Design with a Purpose
In 2022, Ohtani collaborated with Oakley to introduce the limited-edition "Kokoro" line. The collection draws from his Japanese roots, combining sleek, minimalist aesthetics with cutting-edge performance technology. The design highlights clean lines and a timeless elegance that mirrors Ohtani's style both on and off the field.
A Cultural Connection
The name "Kokoro" translates to "heart" or "spirit" in Japanese, symbolizing Ohtani's strong ties to his heritage. These arm sleeves serve as more than just a functional accessory - they embody a blend of cultural pride and modern athletic innovation. It’s a seamless integration of tradition and practicality that resonates deeply with fans.
Performance That Matters
For Ohtani, compression sleeves are a critical part of his game. They’re not just about style - they help improve circulation, reduce muscle fatigue, and provide essential support to his throwing arm. Plus, with added UV protection, they’re a smart choice for a player who excels as both a pitcher and a hitter.
Setting Trends Among Fans
Ohtani’s impact extends far beyond his performance on the field. In 2021, his jersey topped MLB’s best-seller list, surpassing big names like Mike Trout and Mookie Betts. His influence doesn’t stop there - his practical yet stylish gear has inspired countless fans and aspiring players. After signing with New Balance, baseball cleat sales in Asia saw a 45% jump in just one quarter. Clearly, Ohtani’s choices resonate with a global audience, blending functionality with a signature flair that fans love.
5. Francisco Lindor
Francisco Lindor is not just a standout on the baseball field for his athletic prowess - he’s also a trailblazer in on-field fashion. Known for his vibrant and culturally inspired style, Lindor’s approach to fashion resonates deeply with fans, making him a true icon in Major League Baseball.
Design Uniqueness
Lindor’s arm sleeves are a perfect reflection of his bold aesthetic. Collaborating with his personal stylist, Allen Oniya, he crafts looks that are daring yet polished. His partnerships with major brands like New Balance and Oakley further cement his role as a trendsetter in the world of sports fashion.
In Lindor’s own words:
"My style is I don't follow trends. I run away from trends." – Francisco Lindor
This philosophy shines through in his arm-sleeve designs, which feature bold color palettes and custom patterns. Whether opting for cropped or full-length sleeves, Lindor effortlessly mixes dark, understated tones with bright, attention-grabbing shades. These choices not only make a visual statement but also reflect his cultural heritage and personal creativity.
Cultural and Personal Significance
Lindor’s Puerto Rican roots are at the heart of his style. From his arm sleeves to his signature shoe adorned with Puerto Rican hibiscus graphics, his fashion is a celebration of his heritage.
"I'm truly proud of being Puerto Rican and I wanted to send a little message to all the kids out there, that if I did it - and I come from not a lot - it is possible." – Francisco Lindor
His passion for fashion dates back to his childhood, influenced by his sisters. Today, his style serves as a platform to honor his culture and inspire young fans.
Influence on Fan Trends
Lindor’s influence extends far beyond the field and his $341 million contract with the Mets. His stylist, Allen Oniya, sums it up perfectly:
"It shows that athletes have more to them than whatever their sport is. They're looking for ways to communicate different things. For a lot of athletes, fashion is the next thing. It's the thing that a lot of times is the most relatable for them. Especially Francisco -- he loves colors, he loves to experiment, he loves to try new things. So it's very refreshing to see that." – Allen Oniya
Fans can even emulate Lindor’s style through officially licensed MLBPA Francisco Lindor compression arm sleeves, available through retailers like License Champs.
Functional Performance Benefits
Lindor proves that style and performance can go hand in hand. His on-field success only amplifies his flair, and he’s unapologetic about his bold approach:
"If I'm flashy it doesn't mean I'm disrespecting anybody." – Francisco Lindor
6. Carlos Correa
Carlos Correa blends pride in his Latin heritage with a polished, professional image, making him a standout in Major League Baseball both on and off the field. As the Houston Astros' shortstop, his approach to style - especially his use of arm sleeves - goes beyond aesthetics, reflecting a deeper connection to his roots and his role as a trailblazer for Latin American players.
A Style That Tells a Story
Every detail of Correa's look, from his arm sleeves to his custom cleats, carries personal meaning. His cleats, in particular, serve as a canvas to celebrate his identity and family.
"The cleats, they describe who I am and my personality. My first cleats are for my family and have cool designs." – Carlos Correa
Correa’s flair for mixing personal and professional style doesn’t stop there. He even made headlines by wearing a vintage Street Fighter T-shirt during a postgame Zoom press conference, seamlessly weaving pop culture into his image. His attention to detail underscores his commitment to using fashion as a form of self-expression.
Honoring Heritage Through Fashion
For Correa, style is more than just looking good - it’s about representing who he is. Inspired by Puerto Rican legend Roberto Clemente, Correa sees his platform as a way to honor his heritage and uphold values of community and professionalism.
"He paved the way for us Latin American players to be able to play at this level and show people we can play the game and be good at it. For me, it really means a lot because if not for him, I would not be here." – Carlos Correa
This connection to Clemente’s legacy is a driving force behind Correa’s approach to both his career and his community.
Building a Personal Brand
Correa understands the importance of branding in today’s game. He strives to be a role model for young Latin players, emphasizing that success requires more than just skill on the field - it’s about professionalism and marketability.
"I want to be able to be an example for Latin guys coming up. Learn English. It's not only about baseball. It's what's outside of the sport, too, that can help you get paid. At the end of the day, it's our job. We're a brand. You've got to be able to sell yourself the right way." – Carlos Correa
His business savvy is evident in his five-year endorsement deal with Adidas, which has been described as "huge, record-setting". This partnership highlights how Correa merges performance with self-expression, setting the tone for a new generation of players.
Staying True to His Roots
Off the field, Correa’s commitment to his community remains unwavering. He actively gives back to his hometown, ensuring his success benefits those who need it most.
"I will never forget my roots. That's why every year when the season is over, I go back home, talk to my people, bring batting gloves and bats and give them to kids whose parents can't afford that stuff. It's a poor community. That's where I still live." – Carlos Correa
Correa’s generosity extends to his family as well. After signing with the Astros, he purchased a home for his parents and enabled his father to retire - further proof that his values guide everything he does.
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7. Mookie Betts
Mookie Betts brings a unique blend of subtle sophistication and top-tier performance to the game. While many players gravitate toward bold, attention-grabbing designs, Betts has carved out a signature look that leans on simplicity, reflecting his steady excellence on the field.
Design Uniqueness
Betts’ arm-sleeve design is a masterclass in minimalism. A standout example is the 2023 Topps Holiday card, which showcases his "Candy Cane Lights Arm Sleeve", demonstrating how he seamlessly incorporates seasonal themes into his style. His minimalist approach proves that simplicity can leave a lasting impression in MLB, perfectly complementing his composed and professional image.
Personal and Symbolic Meaning
Betts’ style mirrors his calm and collected personality. His preference for clean, understated designs aligns with his philosophy of letting his performance do the talking. With accolades like six All-Star appearances and a Gold Glove Award in 2022, his achievements speak volumes, reinforcing his quiet confidence on and off the field.
Influence on Fan Trends
Betts has redefined what it means to be a trendsetter in baseball fashion. Fans who appreciate a more polished and subtle aesthetic look to him for inspiration, proving that you don’t need loud patterns or bright colors to make a statement. His influence highlights how a well-thought-out, minimalist style can resonate just as powerfully as the flashiest designs.
8. Marcus Stroman
Marcus Stroman has carved out a reputation not just for his pitching prowess but also for his bold sense of style. He’s one of baseball’s most fearless trendsetters, seamlessly blending athletic performance with a strong commitment to self-expression. His choices, from arm sleeves to headbands, challenge the sport’s traditional norms and showcase his individuality.
Design Uniqueness
Stroman’s arm sleeves are a standout feature of his on-field look, often showcasing bold colors and intricate patterns that pair perfectly with his signature headbands and custom gloves. What makes his style so compelling is the intentionality behind it. Every piece of gear reflects his fiery presence on the mound and his dedication to staying true to himself. It’s not just about aesthetics - it’s about making a statement.
Personal and Cultural Meaning
For Stroman, style is deeply personal. His fashion choices are a reflection of his identity and a way to bring authenticity to a sport that has often shied away from individuality. By blending high-end fashion with urban streetwear influences, he bridges his personal and cultural roots while pushing MLB toward a more expressive future.
"I think people get this negative connotation sometimes of me being polarizing based on how I look. I'm tattooed, I wear a durag when I pitch, and I think they put a lot of stereotypes together that create this image around me that are not true at all. I feel like I'm someone who's always been my authentic self, and by being that, I feel like I'm kind of an outcast in baseball when it comes to personality. They always say confident people make unconfident people uncomfortable." - Marcus Stroman
Shaping Fan Trends
Stroman’s influence goes beyond his own wardrobe - he’s inspiring fans to embrace individuality in their style. His gear choices often spark conversations and trends, showing that self-expression belongs in sports as much as it does anywhere else. A great example of this came in April 2024, when Stroman joined a Yankees trend started by Aaron Judge, wearing mint-green gear. The seafoam green look quickly spread, with teammates incorporating it into their gloves, cleats, arm sleeves, and even catcher’s gear. Stroman’s ability to blend team spirit with his personal flair shows how style leaders can inspire others to be bold while staying connected to the group. Fans, in turn, are encouraged to experiment with their own looks while staying true to who they are.
9. Tommy Bergjans
Tommy Bergjans, a standout from Haverford College, represents a modern wave of athletes who combine skill on the field with smart, functional gear. His use of compression arm sleeves is a great example of this blend.
Benefits for Performance
Compression sleeves, like the ones Bergjans uses, offer several benefits for athletes. They enhance blood circulation, ensuring oxygen and nutrients are delivered directly to the working muscles in the arms. By reducing muscle vibrations during play, they help limit muscle damage and soreness, allowing players to maintain their best performance while also guarding against overuse injuries. Additionally, these sleeves keep muscles warm and ready, which can lower the risk of injuries and support consistent arm function throughout a game.
Recovery and Style
Managing gear properly is just as important as using it. Many players, including Bergjans, remove their compression sleeves after games to restore normal blood flow and aid recovery. His practical approach to wearing compression sleeves reflects a growing trend in baseball - prioritizing gear that balances performance with style. Bergjans’ focus on functionality aligns with a broader MLB movement where athletes aim to look good while staying at the top of their game.
10. Shota Imanaga
Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga, a former WBC Champion and standout player for the Yokohama DeNA Baystars, pays tribute to Cubs history by wearing jersey number 18 - a nod to Ben Zobrist.
Imanaga also incorporates the Kinetic Arm sleeve, a piece of technology widely used by Japanese baseball players. This choice not only reflects his connection to Japanese baseball traditions but also demonstrates his commitment to top-tier performance tools.
Performance Benefits of the Kinetic Arm Sleeve
The Kinetic Arm sleeve helps pitchers maintain the correct arm angle, a critical factor for consistency and injury prevention. Imanaga himself highlights its importance:
"Using the Kinetic Arm allows you to maintain the correct angle of the arm." - Shota Imanaga
Expanding Japanese Influence in MLB
Imanaga’s presence in MLB is part of a larger wave of Japanese players making their mark. For instance, in 2024, Japanese tourism to Los Angeles increased by 26%, leading Dodger Stadium to hire additional Japanese-speaking tour guides. This reflects the growing cultural and fan engagement impact of Japanese players on the league.
Player Comparison Table
Here's a breakdown of how different players use their arm sleeves to combine performance and personal style:
| Player | Sleeve Type | Main Design Features | Practical Uses | Style Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bryce Harper | Custom Performance | Bold colors and embroidered logos | Compression and sun protection | Matches his bold, brand-conscious image |
| Yasiel Puig | Vibrant Statement | Bright neon colors with team-coordinated designs | UV protection and muscle support | A striking, high-visibility fashion choice |
| Yoenis Cespedes | Neon Trendsetter | Neon green/yellow design debuted in August 2015 | Enhanced performance and visibility | Sparked the neon sleeve trend in MLB |
| Shohei Ohtani | Technical Performance | Minimalist design with advanced compression materials | Promotes arm health and prevents injuries | A clean, polished, professional aesthetic |
| Francisco Lindor | Colorful Expression | Bright designs inspired by his gloves | Improves circulation and thermoregulation | Showcases his vibrant, joyful personality |
| Carlos Correa | Team-Coordinated | Team colors with a sleek, professional touch | Muscle support and temperature control | Highlights his team-oriented approach |
| Mookie Betts | Versatile Performance | Adaptable colors with high-tech materials | Enhances grip and sweat management | Reflects understated excellence |
| Marcus Stroman | Bold Confidence | Colorful designs paired with matching headbands | Provides compression and a mental edge | Embodies his energetic and confident vibe |
| Tommy Bergjans | Modern Innovation | Contemporary patterns with performance focus | Advanced compression and flexibility | Represents cutting-edge style |
| Shota Imanaga | Kinetic Technology | Japanese-engineered design | Aids injury prevention | Honors Japanese baseball heritage |
This table highlights how arm sleeves bring together cutting-edge sports technology and individual expression. By using materials like nylon, spandex, and polyester, these sleeves offer benefits like improved compression, breathability, and injury prevention. They’ve become an essential tool for athletes looking to boost performance while showcasing their personal style.
Conclusion
The ten players highlighted in this list have reshaped how Major League Baseball views on-field fashion. Their choices in arm sleeves demonstrate that gear can seamlessly merge practicality with personal flair, encouraging a new wave of athletes to showcase their individuality while staying within the game's uniform guidelines.
These early trailblazers sparked a broader movement across the league. Today, it’s common to see players experimenting with bold, vibrant colors that go beyond traditional team palettes. This shift has pushed the boundaries of baseball’s classic aesthetic, keeping the influence of these style pioneers alive and well.
Looking ahead, advancements in technology are taking on-field fashion to the next level. Inspired by these bold trends, innovations like smart fabrics are entering the game. For example, AI-driven sleeves and materials that adjust compression in real time are part of a growing smart sportswear market, which is projected to hit $70 billion soon. Personalization and sustainability are also becoming key, with over half of consumers (54%) factoring in environmental impact when making fashion purchases.
FAQs
Why are arm sleeves so popular among MLB players, and how do they balance performance with style?
Arm sleeves have become a must-have for MLB players, offering a mix of practical advantages and personal expression. From a performance perspective, these sleeves provide crucial muscle support, enhance blood flow, and shield players from UV exposure and minor scrapes. They also help maintain optimal muscle temperature, which can lower the chance of strains and assist in post-game recovery.
But it’s not just about function - arm sleeves have also become a way for players to express their personality. With vibrant colors, eye-catching patterns, and custom designs, many players turn them into a style statement, adding a touch of flair to their on-field presence. This combination of utility and self-expression has solidified arm sleeves as a signature feature in today’s baseball scene.
How do MLB players like Yasiel Puig and Francisco Lindor use arm sleeves to showcase their culture and individuality?
MLB stars like Yasiel Puig and Francisco Lindor use arm sleeves not just for practicality, but as a way to showcase their heritage and personality on the field. Yasiel Puig, famous for his lively and bold persona, often sports vibrant, colorful sleeves that celebrate his Cuban roots and energetic style. These eye-catching designs have become a signature part of his on-field presence.
Francisco Lindor, meanwhile, seamlessly combines cultural pride with contemporary fashion. His choice of arm sleeves reflects his personal flair while creating a connection with fans who admire his individuality and creativity.
For these players, arm sleeves are more than just gear - they're a canvas for self-expression, inspiring others to celebrate their identity through sports fashion.
What new technologies are being used in arm sleeves, and how are they changing baseball gear and style?
Modern arm sleeves have taken a leap forward, blending technology with functionality to boost performance, provide protection, and even add a touch of style on the field. Some sleeves now come equipped with specialized support systems that help reduce arm fatigue and lower the chances of injuries. These designs focus on stabilizing critical areas, like the elbow and shoulder, while still allowing players full freedom of movement. The result? Better performance with less risk.
Another exciting development is the rise of smart sleeves. These come with built-in sensors that monitor throwing intensity and workload, giving players real-time insights to better manage their arm health. By combining advanced features with eye-catching designs, modern arm sleeves have become more than just gear - they’re a perfect mix of performance and personal expression.