In an interview with Complex Magazine, the rapper said his often flamboyant choice of wardrobe was a product of his creative mind.

"I really think it’s because society tries to dictate the way a guy is supposed to dress and the way a guy is supposed to act, and I refuse to conform,” he said.

"A lot of these dudes would never be accused of being gay just because they all look exactly alike.”

West, who is currently dating model Amber Rose, has faced increasing criticism over his dress sense in recent months.

But the rapper said he believed both gay and straight people could showcase a diverse taste in fashion.

"If people could just realize the amount of mundaneness and followers that lack creativity... I think people’s mentality is like, 'Only gay people are that creative',” he said.

"And it’s true there are a lot of gay people who are incredible creative minds, but there are straight people who are incredible creative minds - and there’s gay people who can’t dress or create at all, too.

"Closed-minded gay people probably say they dress 'straight'."

West is due to launch a trainer range for fashion house Louis Vuitton in June.

(by Jason Gregory)