Celebrating a Fashion Icon and Music Legacy
At the 2024 MTV European Music Awards in Manchester, South African singer Tyla stole the spotlight, paying tribute to the late R&B icon Aaliyah. Tyla’s choice? A dazzling blue Roberto Cavalli dress, a fresh take on the gown Aaliyah wore at the 2000 MTV VMAs, captured the attention of fans and fashion enthusiasts alike.
A Memorable Red Carpet Moment
Tyla’s the African Music artist's modern twist on Aaliyah’s original zebra-print gown featured a striking blue color with a dramatic fur-trimmed, thigh-high slit. She completed the look with bold accessories from Jacob & Co.—a boutique necklace, diamond hoops, and a sparkling bangle. Her knee-high, strappy open-toe shoes added flair, enhancing her red-carpet presence.
It wasn’t just her outfit that made an impact; Tyla took home three awards: Best R&B, Best African Act, and Best Afrobeats, a testament to her growing influence in the music industry.
The Lasting Legacy of Aaliyah
Aaliyah Dana Haughton, known simply as Aaliyah, is remembered not only for her incredible music career but also for her groundbreaking fashion sense. Emerging in the 1990s, Aaliyah became a style icon whose unique blend of masculinity and femininity left a lasting impact on fashion and influenced countless artists who followed in her footsteps.
Aaliyah's Signature Style
Aaliyah's fashion was characterized by a tomboy-inspired aesthetic that combined streetwear with high-fashion elements. She often wore oversized clothing, including baggy jeans, crop tops, and coordinated sets from brands like Tommy Hilfiger.
Her partnership with Hilfiger solidified her status as a trendsetter; she became the face of the brand's Tommy Jeans campaign in 1996, which marked its first significant push into women's fashion. The iconic bandeau tops paired with baggy pants and visible boxer briefs became synonymous with her style.
One of Aaliyah's most recognizable accessories was the bandana, which she frequently wore wrapped around her head, adding to her signature look. In addition to her casual streetwear, Aaliyah also embraced more feminine styles for red-carpet events. She often wore elegant gowns, such as the stunning Roberto Cavalli dress at the Essence Awards in 2001, showcasing her versatility as a fashionista.
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Influencing Future Generations
Aaliyah's impact on fashion extends beyond her own wardrobe choices. Her unique style has inspired numerous artists across various genres. For example:
Rihanna and Beyoncé have both referenced Aaliyah’s tomboy aesthetic in their own fashion choices, incorporating elements like oversized jackets and crop tops into their looks.
Zendaya and Keke Palmer have paid tribute to Aaliyah by recreating some of her iconic outfits for events, ensuring that her influence continues to resonate in contemporary fashion.
The resurgence of baggy jeans and crop tops among younger celebrities is a testament to Aaliyah's enduring legacy. Stars like Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid often sport similar styles that echo Aaliyah’s original looks.
Aaliyah’s appearance in the original Roberto Cavalli dress remains iconic, marked by her sleek, long black hair and glossy lips. Her style has inspired countless artists, with stars like rapper Eve and model Paloma Elsesser also recreating this unforgettable look. Tyla’s homage to Aaliyah highlights the timeless influence of both the artist and the gown, celebrating their impact on fashion and music.
Tyla’s Personal Style and Artistic Vision
Guided by her stylists, Lee Trigg and Katie Qian, Tyla has established herself as a major fashion figure. Her bold style reflects her personality, like her unforgettable sand-sculpted Balmain dress at the 2024 Met Gala. Tyla’s love for tiger prints and tropical themes is part of her signature look, which she describes as a way to “make it all exciting for the fans.”
Conclusion
Tyla’s tribute to Aaliyah at the 2024 MTV EMAs was a powerful blend of style, legacy, and respect. Her recreation of Aaliyah’s iconic dress serves as both a fashion statement and a celebration of trailblazing women in music. As Tyla continues her rise in music and fashion, she’s set to make her own lasting impact, blending her unique style with a legacy that honors those who paved the way.
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