The announcement that Erykah Badu would be receiving the 2024 Fashion Icon Award at this year’s CFDA ceremony sparked one immediate reaction: “Duh.” The legendary singer’s inimitable personal style has graced red carpets and fashion shows for decades, leaving an undeniable mark on the world of fashion. Her recognition as a Fashion Icon is not just well-deserved but long overdue.
From the moment Badu burst onto the scene in the 1990s, she brought a unique and captivating energy to her red carpet appearances. Her looks were unlike anything else, often featuring voluminous silhouettes, sky-high chapeaus, and a distinct sense of individuality. This deliberate approach to fashion extended beyond mere aesthetics. “I’ve always had a love for taking bits and pieces of the things I am attracted to and creating something far more grand than the sum of those parts,” Badu said in a statement upon receiving the award. “From the music I make, to the looks I put on, to the technology I’m developing; I’m always looking for more innovative, exciting ways to be more expressive and connect with people—to be closer to nature.”
One of Badu’s earliest and most unforgettable looks was at the 2000 Oscars. She arrived in a striking green gown adorned with yellow raffia accents and a matching head wrap. Designed in collaboration with her friend Charlene Sheppard, this look exemplified Badu’s commitment to supporting emerging talent. During this period, she consciously chose to wear exclusively Black designers from New York, Dallas, and Atlanta, using her platform to advocate for up-and-coming voices.
While Badu has since embraced pieces from major fashion houses, her core fashion philosophy has remained consistent. Her signature dramatic headwear is often created by Bona Capello, a Tokyo-based label. Thom O’Brien, the founder of Bona Capello, remarked in 2017, “Erykah is the real deal. She supports independent artists and has an understanding of the creative process.” Badu’s presence is a constant fixture at Fashion Month, particularly at shows like Marni and Thom Browne, whose tailored suits she frequently wears.
In recent years, Badu has continued to make a statement at the Met Gala. Her first appearance in 2014 saw her adorned in a sleek white coat designed by Riccardo Tisci for Givenchy. At the 2022 Met Gala, she wore a striking patchwork Marni look with dangling beaded strands, a creation by Francesco Risso. “He put so much thought into this—he knew that I liked wearing things that make noise and music,” Badu shared about the look in her Life in Looks video.
Erykah Badu’s fashion journey is a testament to her artistic vision and her unwavering commitment to individuality. Her unique style has not only influenced the fashion world but also served as an inspiration for countless individuals to embrace their own unique sense of self. As she steps into the spotlight as a Fashion Icon, it is a moment that celebrates not just her extraordinary style but also her profound impact on the industry and beyond.
