Fashion: There's no reason to laugh at these comedians' styles

THERE is a brand new breed of fashion icon shifting through the ranks that has got everyone more than a little surprised.

The comedian has burst out of his humorous shackles and started on a style ascent that no-one saw coming.

This climb up the fashion ladder can be pinpointed to the moment Russell Brand flounced on to the scene, all skinny jeans and rock-star chic, using the way he looked as part of his act.

Now it would appear a comedian's appearance is as much an ingredient of their on-stage persona as their material - and don't these Fringe stars wear it well?

Jim Jefferies has more than a touch of the inner rock god about him, enjoying all facets of life on the road. His look is really masculine - jeans and checked shirts are his uniform of choice, with a little bit of leather thrown in for good measure. He stays true to his Australian roots by infusing a bit of double denim into the mix.

Arj Barker is a very cool customer indeed. He's the Johnny Cash of comedy, promoting a distinctive look that rotates around black. He understands the importance of his image, so doesn't take too kindly to being dressed by anyone other than himself. That way, if he makes a fashion faux pas, he has nobody else to blame.

Ali Cook mixes comedy with magic for a show that will leave you feeling freaked out and entertained. This on-stage combination of laughter and tricks spills into his fashion choices too, flitting from suits to funkier attire throughout the performance and even a wet suit for good measure.

Dave Hill is a visual treat. His act is pulled from all facets of his personality, using imagery and music in his show. This New Yorker takes geek chic to an edgier level, teaming outrageous blazers with denim and pulling it together with brooches, ties and shoes.

Sam Simmons' show is called Fail, and it doesn't fail on either the fashion or comedy fronts. His performance is energetic and quirky, just like his style. His comedic power lies in his hat collection - this guy is a true showman with every fibre of his fabric.

Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the best dressed boys at the Fringe who are guaranteed to crack a smile on even the most dour-faced Edinburgher in the city. Just go to see them!

• Jim Jefferies, Alcoholocaust, McEwan Hall; Arj Barker, Let Me Do the Talking, Assembly at George Street; Ali Cook, Pieces of Strange, Gilded Balloon Teviot; Dave Hill, Big in Japan, Pleasance Courtyard; Sam Simmons, Fail, Gilded Balloon Teviot.