This approach is not new, but it has become rarer and therefore more powerful. Beyoncé has long
treated albums as conceptual events, collapsing the boundaries between music, film and fashion.
Her projects are designed as unified statements, where visuals are not promotional tools but
narrative extensions. Every frame, costume and movement carries meaning. The album behaves like
a curated exhibition, meticulously controlled yet emotionally expansive.

Similarly, Frank Ocean has built a career around restraint and coherence. His albums are sparse,
slow and visually minimal, yet deeply intentional. Imagery, typography and sound exist in quiet
dialogue, demanding attention rather than demanding clicks. In a culture of excess, his work
reminds us that absence can be as expressive as abundance.

For Billie Eilish, the album has become a vehicle for visual transformation. Each era introduces a
distinct palette and silhouette that mirrors the emotional register of the music. Colour, clothing and
composition are never incidental. They evolve alongside her sound, creating a visual continuity that
allows audiences to recognise not just a song, but a phase of self-expression.
Tyler, The Creator approaches albums as character studies. His releases arrive with alter egos,
uniforms and carefully constructed worlds that feel closer to cinema than marketing. Fashion, set
design and narrative are integrated into the project from the outset. The album is not just heard – it is
performed, worn and inhabited.

Few artists have explored the album as art object as consistently as Lady Gaga. Her work has
always existed at the intersection of music, fashion and performance, with each release establishing
a visual mythology of its own. Costumes are not styling choices; they are part of the language. The
album becomes a stage where identity, spectacle and concept collide.

Rosalía brings a different kind of precision to this practice. Her albums fuse tradition and
experimentation, drawing from flamenco, pop and avant-garde imagery to build worlds that feel
both contemporary and deeply referential. Visuals are symbolic rather than decorative, rooted in
gesture, movement and material culture.

Finally, Kendrick Lamar treats the album as a philosophical structure. His projects unfold like
essays – layered, intentional and visually restrained. Imagery, staging and performance reinforce the
intellectual architecture of the music. Nothing exists in isolation. Everything contributes to
meaning. What unites these artists is not genre or popularity, but authorship. They resist fragmentation. They insist on cohesion. In doing so, they reclaim the album as a serious artistic form, one that rewards patience, attention and immersion.In a cultural landscape driven by immediacy, the album as artwork feels almost radical. It asks listeners to slow down, to look as much as they listen, and to engage with music not as content, but as creation.

Words by Fabiana Gutierrez

The post The Album as Artwork: When Music Becomes a Total Visual Project appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Beyoncé

In Custom Schiaparelli.

Beyoncé arrived in custom Schiaparelli, a look that embodied elegance and innovation. The shimmering gown featured architectural details and intricate embellishments, styled to perfection to complement her radiant presence. Queen Bey’s ensemble set the tone for the night, combining timeless glamour with a bold, modern edge. 

Taylor Swift 

In Vivienne Westwood. 

Taylor Swift turned heads on the red carpet in a custom Vivienne Westwood creation that blended boldness with elegance. The striking red mini dress featured a corset bodice, a one-shoulder strap, and an asymmetric skirt, pulled up to reveal a beaded garter chain adorned with a delicate “T” charm, a subtle nod to either her name or her beau, Travis Kelce. Complementing the ensemble were glittery strappy sandals, chandelier earrings, and a signature red lip, exuding a monochromatic red look that was equal parts romantic and sophisticated.

Lady Gaga 

In Vivienne Westwood and Tiffany & Co. 

 Lady Gaga turned heads in a dramatic Vivienne Westwood black leather gown, paired with an archival Tiffany & Co. necklace from the 1930s. With her sleek styling and avant-garde take on goth-glam, Gaga solidified her place as the queen of high-fashion statements.

Chappell Roan 

 In Jean Paul Gaultier Couture and John Fluevog.

Chappell Roan captivated the red carpet with her theatrical flair, donning an archival Jean Paul Gaultier haute couture design from the Spring 2003 collection, styled by Genesis Webb. The ballerina-inspired look, paired with John Fluevog boots, was elevated by a whimsical feathered headpiece and bold make-up, solidifying her status as a red-carpet standout.

Sabrina Carpenter 

 In JW Anderson.

Sabrina Carpenter stunned in a pale blue silk gown by JW Anderson, paired with sparkling Chopard diamonds. The whimsical, dream-like look of her dress made it one of the most memorable looks of the evening.

Billie Eilish 

 In Prada. 

Billie Eilish opted for a tailored Prada ensemble that redefined red-carpet minimalism. The structured silhouette and muted tones reflected her signature understated style while exuding sophistication.

Cardi B 

In Roberto Cavalli. 

Cardi B made a bold statement in a Roberto Cavalli gown, styled by Kollin Carter. The look featured striking details and an undeniable sense of drama, ensuring Cardi stood out among the night’s best-dressed stars.

Willow Smith 

In Alexander McQueen.

Willow Smith embraced an edgy, futuristic aesthetic in Alexander McQueen. Her look combined sharp tailoring with avant-garde detailing, capturing her bold, innovative spirit. 

Miley Cyrus 

In Saint Laurent.

Miley Cyrus channelled sleek, understated elegance in a Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello design. The streamlined silhouette and minimalistic approach proved that less is often more.

Charli XCX 

In Jean Paul Gaultier.

Charli XCX lit up the red carpet in Jean Paul Gaultier, styled by Chris Horan. The look fused playful sensuality with couture-level craftsmanship, a perfect fit for the pop provocateur.

Doechii

In Thom Browne, Messika, and David Yurman.

Doechii embraced structured tailoring in a Thom Browne suit, accessorised with Messika and David Yurman jewellery. Her look balanced femininity and boldness, cementing her as a red-carpet trailblazer.

Madison Bear 

In Miss Sohee.

Madison Beer dazzled in Miss Sohee, with a gown that radiated glamour and sophistication. The intricate detailing and luxurious fabric made this look unforgettable.

Jaden Smith 

In Louis Vuitton.

Jaden Smith turned heads in a Louis Vuitton suit, complete with a castle-shaped helmet. The statement piece added an abstract touch to an otherwise sleek and tailored ensemble.

Kehlani 

In Robert Wun and Jimmy Choo.

Kehlani stunned in Robert Wun, paired with Jimmy Choo heels. The structured design and bold accents made her look a standout look on the red carpet.

Raye

In Giorgio Armani Privé.

Raye sparkled in a custom Giorgio Armani Privé gown, paired with Nikos Koulis earrings. The shimmering fabric and timeless silhouette exuded old-Hollywood glamour with a modern twist.

Paris Hilton 

In Chrome of Hearts.

Paris Hilton stunned in a plunging caped gown by Chrome Hearts, adorned with intricate gold embroidery. She completed the look with matching opera gloves, aviator sunglasses, and crystallised pumps, showcasing her timeless red-carpet elegance.

Olivia Rodrigo 

In Vintage Versace.

Olivia Rodrigo channelled vintage elegance in a slinky black Versace gown. The minimalist design highlighted her natural beauty while nodding to iconic fashion moments of the past.

The 2025 Grammy Awards gave us unforgettable performances and even more unforgettable fashion moments. From archival masterpieces to daringly modern creations, the red carpet was alive with creativity and individuality. Each look, meticulously crafted and styled, reminded us that music and fashion share a common thread: self-expression. Whether it was Beyoncé’s regal elegance, Lady Gaga’s goth-glam opulence, or Olivia Rodrigo’s vintage sophistication, the night proved that the Grammys are as much about style as they are about sound. Which look was your favourite? Let us know as we eagerly await what next year’s red carpet will bring.

Words By Claire Gaura 

The post The Best Looks From The 2025 Grammys Red Carpet appeared first on Voir Fashion.

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Symbolic Portrayal Of Cowboy Carter

Beyoncé’s portrayal of Cowboy Carter makes a striking statement about the interplay of race, gender, and identity in America. Through this role, she fights the deep-seated sexism she encountered in the country music industry, reclaiming her narrative in the process.

_{https://www.instagram.com/beyonce/}

A Fusion Of Genres

While ‘Cowboy Carter’ contains many country-inspired sounds, it also includes elements of hip-hop, bluegrass, and Chicano Rock. Beyoncé seamlessly transitions between these various genres, resulting in a unified and compelling listening experience. Beyoncé also reimagines classic country songs like Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” infusing them with her own unique style of music. Through her reinterpretations, she challenges stereotypes within the genre.

Tribute To Pioneering Artists And Platforming New Stars

“Cowboy Carter” pays tribute to pioneering artists like Linda Martell, the first Black woman to perform at the Grande Ole Opry. By featuring voices from country lore throughout the album, Beyoncé shines a light on the contributions of Black artists to the genre.

In addition to honouring pioneers, “Cowboy Carter” also showcases emerging talent in the country music scene. Artists like Rhiannon Giddens and Shaboozey contribute their distinctive voices to the album amplifying underrepresented voices.

_{https://www.instagram.com/beyonce/}

Navigating the Pop-Country Divide: Beyoncé straddles the line between pop and country on “Cowboy Carter,” enlisting collaborators like Miley Cyrus and Post Malone to explore the blurred boundaries between the two genres. Through these collaborations, she integrates the existing relationship between pop and country music.

A Cast of Supporting Players: Behind the scenes, “Cowboy Carter” boasts an mpressive roster of producers and musicians, including The-Dream, Pharrell, and Stevie Wonder. Their contributions help bring Beyoncé’s vision to life, adding depth and richness to the album’s sonic landscape.

In conclusion, “Cowboy Carter” is not just another album from Beyoncé, it’s a bold statement on the complexities of identity, representation, and artistic expression in America. By blending genres, honouring pioneers, and challenging traditional narratives, Beyoncé continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in music.

_{Written By Gabriella Neocleous}

The post Exploring Beyonce’s ‘Cowboy Carter’ And Its Musical Influence appeared first on Voir Fashion.

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On March 12, the 32-time Grammy winner revealed the title of her upcoming eighth studio album, “Cowboy Carter,” on her official website and on March 19^th she shared the album artwork on her personal Instagram account. 

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A picture of Beyoncé herself with long bleach blonde locks, sat on a white horse holding an American flag. Her outfit is a stunning red white and blue western jumpsuit and she wears the album title “Cowboy Carter” sash again in red white and blue. The photo was shot by LA based photographer Blair Caldwell.

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The image is very American and stately and it suggests some patriotic themes that may present in the piece of work. The singer posted it in honour of the ten-day countdown to the album’s March 29 release.

“This album has been over five years in the making. It was born out of an experience that I had years ago where I did not feel welcomed…and it was very clear that I wasn’t. But, because of that experience, I did a deeper dive into the history of Country music and studied our rich musical archive. It feels good to see how music can unite so many people around the world, while also amplifying the voices of some of the people who have dedicated so much of their lives educating on our musical history,” Beyonce wrote in her caption. 

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“The criticisms I faced when I first entered this genre forced me to propel past the limitations that were put on me. act ii is a result of challenging myself and taking my time to bend and blend genres together to create this body of work.”

Beyoncé then continued to reveal that there would be “a few surprises on the album” and shared that she trusts that fans will be incredibly excited to hear the “heart, soul, love and passion” she put into this piece of work.

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“I focused on this album as a continuation of RENAISSANCE…I hope this music is an experience, creating another journey where you can close your eyes, start from the beginning, and never stop. This ain’t a Country album.”, “This is a “Beyoncé” album. This is act ii COWBOY CARTER, and I am proud to share it with y’all!” she concluded. 

This anticipated piece of work is set to be the second album in what is now rumoured to be a Trilogy of “Renaissance” albums.

_{Written By Lauren Dickson}

The post Cowboy Carter: Let’s Talk Beyoncé’s Act II Renaissance Artwork appeared first on Voir Fashion.

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The success of Nadia’s portfolio up to now has earned her a loyal army of fashion groupies eagerly awaiting her next piece of work. She has become one of the trendiest visual artists of the moment. But who is she? And how has she projected to the level that she has?

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_{Simi & Haze for “Women” – Nadia Lee Cohen https://www.nadialeecohen.com/women-2020}

Nadia Lee is a British photographer and videographer; she was born in the British countryside and has always had a passion for photography and film making. Her parents used to create her sets to photograph in the garage of her childhood home and after discovering her talent, she promptly moved to London to study Photography at the London College of Fashion. 

_{Nadia Lee Cohen https://www.instagram.com/p/C0X3zJXRYt_/}

_{Lily for “Women” – Nadia Lee Cohen https://www.nadialeecohen.com/women-2020}

As a part of her master’s project, Cohen headed to LA to capture her go to golden age americana aesthetic, only to discover the real Hollywood Boulevard was one of trashy stores and broken dreams. 

_{Credits – Nadia Lee Cohen https://www.nadialeecohen.com/women-2020}

This sad reality of the state of a place she had dreamed of became her new inspiration and her saturated surreal dreamscape photography began to focus on the visual terrors of the urban environment. “The world I photograph and create doesn’t reside in the same world that we live in,” Nadia is recorded saying.

_{Miriam for “Women” – Nadia Lee Cohen https://www.nadialeecohen.com/women-2020}

To those less fascinated by the world of fashion photography Cohen is best known for the people she’s worked with, and she has built quite the portfolio photographing several high-profile celebrities with her own spin.

Filmography

She has also achieved incredible accolades in filmography. She visually directed the music video for Tyler the Creator and Kali Uchis “After the Storm” music video, A$ap Rocky’s “Babushka Boi” as well as Playboy and several short films.

_{“After The Storm” Stills – Kali Chis Feat. Tyler The Creator https://www.instagram.com/p/BeYhANbhnC2/}

By Nadia Lee Cohen – “Women” & “Hello, My Name Is”

She’s also published two books documenting her work. One titled “Women” in 2020 documenting exactly that –  Women – which stared the stunning Alexa Demie and Simi & Haze as well as Cohen herself making a feature. Followed by “Hello, My Name Is” in 2021 – a book in which Cohen photographs her own self portrait while dressing as different characters.

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Skims – Kim Kardashian 2023

Recently Nadia Lee was the creative genius behind the photography for Skims winter holiday collection that depicted brand founder Kim Kardashian in the style of vintage 60’s magazines. As well as advertising the brands silky boxers, all in ones and fluffy crop tops the shoot also used props like snow boots and skis to create the vintage wintery aesthetic.

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CR Fashion Book – Kim Kardashian 2023

In 2023 Cohen shot Kim Kardashians 4^th cover with CR Fashion magazine, and being the first magazine to ever give Kim a cover this one was likely quite sentimental. CR Stated Kim has been a muse since the cover of that issue in Fall/Winter 2013 – and in this shoot Nadia Totally re-envisioned their muse to the point she was almost unrecognisable.

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Interview Magazine – Kim Kardashian 2022

Nadia also shot Kim for the ‘American Dream Issue’ of Interview Magazine, and the interview to go with, which ended up being onE of the magazines most read articles ever. I think we have to admit Kim is the perfect pick for this cover, being one of, if not the most famous women in America.

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Interview Magazine – Lana Del Rey 2023

Lana had an amazing tell all with Interview, in which she was interviewed by Billie Eilish and was shot by Nadia Lee Cohen. So many people have said this photoshoot is prime Lana and exactly how they see her style and image.

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Skims – Lana Del Rey 2024

Nadia also recently shot another Skims campaign featuring Lana for their Valentines collection, which turned out incredible and again, was so in Lana’s romantic style and reflected the vibe of her music, which takes a lot of inspiration from love and heartbreak.

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_{Written By Lauren Dickson}

The post Beyoncé And Nadia Lee Cohen Have Teamed Up To Bring Us Renaissance Act II: But Who Is Nadia Lee Cohen? appeared first on Voir Fashion.

But if there’s one key takeaway from the Louis Vuitton Spring Summer 2024 Show, it’s that it’s not just about fashion– it’s an immersive experience that’s a little bit Louis Vuitton, a little bit celebrity-inspired, and a whole lot Pharrell.

The Phlace

The show took place on Paris’ oldest bridge le Pont Neuf while overlooking the river Seine in a nod to the brand’s Parisian roots. Guests arrived by boat to see the historical location covered in Louis Vuitton’s signature Damier check, drinking champagne and enjoying chicken nuggets prepared by celebrity chef Jean Imbert. What followed was a three-hour celebratory spectacle filled with fashion, music, and culture that confirmed Vuitton’s promise to position itself as a ‘cultural brand’.

The Phriends

A live orchestra and gospel choir accompanied the 71 looks that strutted down the runway, building excitement that exploded as Jay-Z gave a surprise concert near the end. The rapper wasn’t the only A-lister in attendance; amongst the 1,750 guest list were also Naomi Campbell, Jaden and Willow Smith, Kim Kardashian, and Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo. Most notably however, were Pharrell’s closest friends lining the front row. From Beyoncé and Zendaya’s reunion to A$AP Rocky and Rihanna’s matching denim fits, the show seemed more like that party hosted by the cool, popular kids we all desperately wanted to get invited to.

The Phinspiration

But unlike those high school parties, Pharrell wants everyone to feel included with the ‘Lovers’ collection. Following his announcement to take the reigns on Valentine’s Day, the 50-year-old kept the capsule theme going by revolving the whole show around love and community. ‘I make clothes for humans’, he said to Vogue ahead of the show, ‘It’s very inspired by the love and support of the people here that I’ve just been blessed to be able to experience’. He even included his confidants inside the collection, with Rihanna being the face of the campaign and the clothes referencing Tyler The Creator’s signature preppy look.

The Phieces

And now on to the actual clothes. The runway opened with a neutral, boxy suit preliminary for the increasingly quirky and detailed looks that followed. Center stage was the LV Damier checkerboard, reinterpreted everywhere from leather biker jackets to fur coats. Pharrell also focused heavily on bags and introduced the ‘Damouflage pattern’, a digitized camo print that inspires thoughts of Minecraft.

Overall, the collection was an organized haphazard mix of vastly different aesthetics. Slick tailored pieces contrasted baggier clothes, and 70s flared trousers debuted alongside pearl-embedded tracksuits. Truly no style was left behind: there were leather football shirts, watch chain jewelry, camouflage parkas, and even a golf cart filled to the brim with LV trunks. The Vuitton logo was everywhere, with additional “LV Lovers” graphics plastered on both female and male models. There’s no doubt that a collage of so many opposing styles shouldn’t fit together; yet somehow Williams made it work.

The Phuture

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At the end of the show, Pharrell took a standing ovation in a ‘Damouflage’ patterned jacket and trousers, sweetly bringing out the Louis Vuitton design team to honor the community behind his debut (very on theme if you ask us). After such a grandiose presentation, the fashion industry is already wondering what the entertainment mogul is bringing to the table next. If his opening show is any hint, we can expect more statement bags, ‘Damouflage’ everywhere, break-the-internet moments, and a lot of celebrity power. The ‘phuture’ is Pharrell, and we’re all here for it.

_{Words by Alexia De Las Heras}

^{Header Image: @Louis Vuitton Instagram}

The post The Pharrellification Of Louis Vuitton appeared first on Voir Fashion.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CsISHQjIGbQ/

Here are our favourite looks:

^{Image Credit: Z.J. Backgrid}

Living up to her Queen Bee reputation, Beyoncé wore this custom Mugler yellow and black metallic bodysuit, paired with black vinyl gloves and thigh-high boots, and a helmet equipped with antennae and yellow-tinted sunglasses. The outfit references the Mugler spring 1997 couture collection, inspired by insects.

Fans went crazy for this magical UV-colour-changing dress by Anrealage. The white bell-sleeved cloak transformed into a multi-coloured display when the light shone on it. The technology behind the coat was the work of Tokyo designer Kunihiko Morinaga, who showed colour-changing clothes at Paris Fashion Week FW23.

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Beyoncé was giving ‘Formation’ with this wide-brimmed hat and a custom diamanté leotard from Balmain FW23. The bodysuit featured an intricate pearl web, matching her pearl-rimmed cat eye sunglasses, and was styled with black vinyl thigh-high boots.

£ 5795

Balmain Silver Embroidered Dress

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£ 27

Ego Diamanté Droplet Detail Western Hat

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£ 15

Pieces Diamanté Cat Eye Sunglasses

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£ 654

Le Silla Eva Thigh-Length Leather Boots

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^{Image Credit: Kevin Mazur}

Out of all her bodysuits of the evening, this bejewelled Loewe number stole the show. Adorned with manicured hands, with which Bey wore matching latex gloves, the suit was custom made by Jonathan Anderson and was reminiscent of the hand-dress from Loewe’s FW22 collection at Paris Fashion Week.

£ 895

Loewe Gloves Graphic Print Velvet Maxi Dress

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£ 22.50

Jaded London Kiss Me Quick Raw Hem Tank Top

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£ 36

Jaded London Kiss Me Quick Raw Hem Maxi Skirt

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https://www.instagram.com/p/CsIxSdMsvHX/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Another custom Balmain look, Beyoncé transformed into a mirror ball in this asymmetric mirrored mini dress. She paired it with silver thigh-high boots and metallic sunglasses.

£ 220

rotate Birger Christensen Hemly Strapless Croc Effect Dress

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£ 26

Weekday Trek Oversized Sunglasses

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£ 42.49

Raid London Amberr Long Block Heeled Boot

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^{Image Credit: Kevin Mazur}

Beyoncé wore another bodysuit, this time a futuristic-silhouette number from Alexander McQueen. It was hand embroidered, mixing different textures like rhinestones, intricate beading and metallic threads, and featured padded shoulders and hips.

£ 606

Zhivago Message To Love Jumpsuit

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£ 52.50

Jaded Rose V Neck Embellished Jumpsuit

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https://www.instagram.com/p/CsGR45ygP7e/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

David Koma, who also designed Bey’s Oscars performance look last year, created this custom ensemble inspired by his SS23 collection. The look consisted of a turtleneck bodycon dress with a ruched, high-low skirt, a long iridescent metallic coat, chunky silver earrings, and holographic asymmetric cowboy boots.

£ 1160

David Koma Mother Of Pearl Print Mesh Dress

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£ 493

Alexandre Vauthier Holographic Knee High Boots

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£ 55

Club Exx Solar Beam Iridescent Jacket

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£ 189

Kenneth Jay Lane Silver Tone Crystal Earrings

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Beyoncé heads to England next week and covers 40 cities in Europe, the UK, Canada, and the US, concluding in New Orleans in late September. Let’s hope we get to see even more looks as the tour goes on!

^{Words by Lucy Walshe}

^{Header Image by Kevin Mazur}

The post Beyoncé Kicks Off Renaissance Tour In Custom Couture Looks appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Andrea “Dre” Greene, a young lady from Houston, would do anything for her favourite R&B singer Ni’Jah: max out credit cards, shun her sister’s boyfriend, and even murder the star’s haters. Dominique Fishback (Judas and the Black Messiah) stars as the psychotic Dre in the seven-part satirical psychological thriller that debuted earlier this month on Amazon Prime.

Writers and creators Donald Glover and Janine Nabers wanted to make it blatantly obvious that pop star Ni’Jah is a parallel to Beyoncé. Of course, Ni’Jah’s fanbase’s nickname is the Swarm very similar to Beyoncé stan’s nickname the Beyhive, Dre accidentally bites Ni’Jah just like the rumoured incident with a fan biting Bey, Ni’Jah’s releases “Festival” about her unfaithful husband much like Beyoncé’s Lemonade, and there’s even a Solange doppelganger in the show. The series even begins with the slightly on-the-nose message: “This is not a work of fiction. Any similarity to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events, is intentional”.

Though the events are inspired by details and incidents throughout Beyoncé’s career, the examination of fandom culture is of course applicable beyond her fans. “Beyhive don’t kill us, it’s not that bad, it’s actually pretty cool!”, Childish Gamino joked at the premiere of the show.

Glover called Swarm a “post-truth TV show” in an interview with the Hollywood Reporter. The Atlanta writer and Janine Nabers assess the dangers of parasocial relationships showing how online fandoms can spring into witch hunt attacks, dox those that diss the star they stan, invade celebrities’ privacy, and even go as far as violence through using Dre as depiction of an extreme case.

Talking to Vulture, Glover said he wanted Dre to be “brutal” and told Fishback to watch Isabella Huppert in the Piano Teacher for inspiration for her performance. However, some of the writer’s comments on how he prepared the actress for the role have rubbed people the wrong way. Glover told Vulture he instructed the actress to: “Think of it more like an animal and less like a person”.

Despite the lack of help she received in interpreting her character’s deeper motives, Dominique Fishback delivers a spine-chilling performance as Dre as she continues further into psychosis as the years pass. The brief connection we get to see between Chloe Bailey (Black-ish) who plays Dre’s sister Marissa and Dre gives us more insight into the softer side of the character but unlucky for us their screen time together is short lived. Packed with gore, tension, as well as dark humour, Swarm is a thriller that keeps its audience engaged with its hooking plot and dramatic performances. 

The show seems to find its groove more as we get further down the rabbit hole. Just as Dre struggles to distinguish between reality and fiction so does the viewer as episode six plunges us into a true crime documentary following a police detective trying to solve Dre’s murders. In a particularly meta, twist Donald Glover himself even gives a red-carpet interview about him making a TV show based on Dre’s life therefore suggesting Dre exists in our world. It’s a mind melt moment nearly as genius as the second half of  the American Horror Story series Roanoke.

A little ironically Twitter and TikTok have been hyped over popstar Billie Eillish’s acting debut as the extremely intense blonde lesbian cult leader Eva who takes Dre under her wing in one of the murder’s more vulnerable moments. She’s just the slice of camp that the show needed.

^{Image by Prime Video}

_{Words by Molly Sutherland}

^{Header Image by Quantrell D. Colbert}

The post Why Swarm Is Our Favourite TV Show ATM appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Rousteing told French Vogue that the idea to collaborate came about when he was sketching while listening to the new album on repeat after its July 2022 release, and was inspired by the lyrics and music. He contacted Beyonce and her stylist, Marni Senofonte, and said he would like to create a couture collection together as co-designers. He had many sketches inspired by the album but managed to whittle it down to just one per song, two of which Beyonce already wore to the Grammys and BRIT awards before the collaboration was officially released. The looks incorporate historic elements of Balmain and celebrate Beyoncé’s heritage, bringing to life the powerful emotions encapsulated in her music.

Rousteing and Beyoncé have worked together many times over the years, from perfecting outfits for her 2018 Coachella headline to opening his 10-year anniversary show for Balmain in 2021.

She says he is a “dream collaborator and a constantly innovating and evolving creative”, with whom she knew she “would want to work on a collection from their very first meeting”.

Renaissance is Beyoncé’s 7th studio album, created during the COVID-19 pandemic with the intention of inspiring happiness and an escape from isolation to listeners, and to celebrate the liberation of marginalised people through dance. It won a Grammy for best dance and electronic album and was nominated for album of the year.

Now, let’s look at some of the 16 outfits it inspired:

Cozy; comfortable in my skin (cozy, cozy)

^{Image Credit: Balmain}

A ‘feu d’artifice’ firework-inspired dress made of black velvet and pink feathers with a matching black velvet turban. The look represents self-love and visualises being surrounded by explosions of fireworks.

Break My Soul; I’m buildin’ my own foundation, yeah

^{Image Credit: “Church Girl” from Renaissance Couture – BeyoncéxBalmain. Photography by Louie Banks, courtesy of Balmain}

Draping shiny black velvet to create a hooded dress, cinched with a black chrome electroplated bustier. Designed to project power and confidence onto the wearer, creating the illusion of a naked torso by 3D printing the bustier.

Thique; Baby, that’s that thique

^{Image Credit: Balmain}

Hammered brass bustier adorned in crystal pendants over a black velvet bodysuit, with matching crystal earrings and velvet turban. Inspired by Parisian chandeliers and traditional ballroom design.

Church Girl; nobody can judge me but me, I was born free

^{Image Credit: Balmain}

Black velvet cape with red interior, metallic belt, and silver chrome bustier. The hat is inspired by records. The outfit represents success, self-confidence, and not apologising for enjoying yourself.

Pure/Honey; It should cost a billion to look this good

^{Image Credit: Balmain}

Mixing sequins, metals, and feathers with harlequin, zebra, and psychedelic patterns to create this bodysuit. As seen on Beyoncé at the BRITs, it aims to pay homage to and channel the energy and joy of the ballroom community.

Virgo’s Groove; I want it right here, right now

^{Image Credit: Balmain}

Pink velvet gown and ‘second skin’ with metallic décolleté by sculptor Elie Hirsch and a reinterpreted vintage Balmain hat. Beyonce and Olivier are both virgos, and the look represents disco, funk, and intensity.

Energy (01); Oh, la, la, la
That’s the way them boys sound when I walk through the block-block-block

^{Image Credit: Balmain}

Black-dyed pheasant feathers grab your attention, embroidered onto a macramé gown. Crafted from black silk, velvet, rayon, and patent-leather threads, this was one of the most complicated designs in the collection, designed with the intention of creating something sensual and alluring that commanded power.

Energy (02); You know that I’m gon’ be extra when that camera go pop-pop-pop-pop-pop-pop

^{Image Credit: Balmain}

Gown, hat, and earrings created with a pattern inspired by traditional African hair-braiding. Taking over a month to complete its creation; the gown began as a series of sketches of African motifs before transforming into this powerful silhouette.

America Has a Problem; Boy, you can’t get no higher than this No, ‘cause love don’t get no higher than this no, no

^{Image Credit: Balmain}

Jumpsuit with draped red velvet and gold chrome bustier. It reflects the song’s confidence and attracts attention through its similarity to the red carpet.

Summer Renaissance; It’s so good, it’s so good, it’s so good, it’s so good, it’s so good

^{Image Credit: Balmain}

Wig, cape, and dress embroidered with fringes, crystals, and rhinestones.The final track on the album inspires outright extravagance and maximalism. Beginning her world tour in May 2023, we can only hope to see more of these looks on Queen B, perhaps she will wear one to the upcoming Met Gala…

_{Words by Lucy Walshe}

^{Header Image by Mia Washbrook}

The post Balmain And Beyoncé Produce First Wearable Album appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Beyonce & Sade

It’s sort of hard now to imagine the sensational Beyoncé before she was a sensation. However, there was, of course, a time when Beyoncé Giselle Knowles was not yet Queen Bey and known to the world as a cultural icon. In 1997 Beyoncé first rose to fame as a member of the R&B girl group Destiny’s Child who released five albums becoming one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. Her seven studio solo albums achieved her icon status with all of them debuting at number one on the Billboard 200. She is now one of the world’s best-selling recording artists having sold over 200 million records worldwide.

She cites many artists as having a crucial influence on her sound and career such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Whitney Houston, and the super sensual sophisti-pop singer Sade Adu.

 “For years I’ve turned to Sade for inspiration – I cannot even begin to count the nights, days, hard times – when I need her – she is there, to inspire me, and brighten me. Her music has been a true friend, as all true music should be. Thank you SADE. Love, Beyoncé”.  

Beyoncé.com

For those unfamiliar with the Nigerian-born British singer Helen Folasade Adu, known simply as Sade, she is the lead singer of the eponymous band and an incredibly influential soul singer with six stunning studio albums under her belt. Starting out singing back up in band the Pride, Sade formed in 1984 after her solo performances gained attention of record companies. Aailyah, Brandy, and Drake have all named her as an influence on their music with Drake even having a tattoo of the singer on his torso.

First-time listeners to Sade should start with her debut album, Diamond Life, one of the top-selling debut recordings of the ’80s and the best-selling debut ever by a British female vocalist. It’s impossible not to fall for her charms – her honey-smooth husky vocals aresoul soothing, the synth and sax create gorgeous drama, and the incredible lyrics paint stories of heartbreak and transport the listener to nocturnal 80s London. All nine songs are of the highest quality. Even if you haven’t listened to the artist, you may be familiar with the first track, ‘Smooth Operator’, about a fashionable womanising heartbreaker who Sade sees through. The song’s chorus and post-chorus are ridiculously catchy – you’ll be singing “Coast-to-coast, L.A. to Chicago” for days after listening. ‘Cherry Pie’, which describes a sweet love going sour, is another highlight on the album with clean guitar licks, breath-taking harmonies, and some very funky bass. It’s clear to see how Sade’s cool sexy sound has an effect on Beyoncé’s own musical style. With all of Sade’s discography holding gems, there’s lots to dive into if you enjoy her debut.

Sade is renowned for her super chic sense of style. She studied fashion design at Saint Martin’s School of Art and was a model before her musical career. Her outfits are clean cut and often B&W. Simple jumpers, suit trousers, sexy backless bodysuits, blue jeans, loose men’s shirts, and leather jackets make up the singer’s wardrobe – her look is timeless despite being nestled in 80s and 90s trends. With red lipstick and gold hoops Sade accessories her outfits minimally and effectively.

Doja Cat & Lauryn Hill

California rapper Doja Cat marched to the beat of her own drum from the moment she stepped into the spotlight in 2018 with her viral single ‘Mooo!’. After releasing three studio albums and a load of singles that hit the mark of pop perfection (‘Kiss Me More’, Need to Know’, ‘Woman’, ‘Get Into It (Yuh)’, ‘Say So’) she has solidified herself as one of the most exciting artists in pop music today.

Doja states an array of artists spanning different genres as influential on her work from her idol Nicki Minaj to Rihanna, Beyoncé, D’Angelo, Missy Elliott, Erykah Badu, and Jamiroquai. In an interview with The Honey Pop from 2021, Doja said that her mother’s music sounded like “poetry” to her and that one of the artists her mother would listen to was Lauryn Hill.

“My mom got me some albums when I was a kid, and they were Rihanna, Amy Winehouse, Beyonce, but she would listen to D’Angelo and Jamiroquai and Lauryn and Erykah… When she would play Busta and Lauryn, it sounds more than music to me. It sounds like poetry. It’s entertaining to listen to. And I was always really inspired by that.”

The Honey Pop

Dua Lipa, Britney Spears, SZA, Jay-Z, Nas, Lil’ Kim, and K-pop artist Jennie of Blackpink have also all cited Ms Lauryn Hill as influential on them. Neo-soul singer, rapper, songwriter, and producer Lauryn Hill is often credited as one of the greatest rappers of all time and as a key figure in bringing female rappers into the limelight. The New Jersey singer’s career started in 1993 when she starred in Sister Act 2 alongside Whoopi Goldberg. In high school, she formed the group which later become the iconic hip-hop trio Fugees alongside Prakazrel Michel and Wyclef Jean.

If you’re looking for a place to start with Lauryn’s music, Fugees’ second LP The Score is the perfect place to do so. Peaking at number one on the U.S. Billboard 200, it has sold more than 200 million copies worldwide. It’s an absolute staple in the hip hop genre and has undergone a resurgence in recent years with Gen Z discovering the album due to ‘Ready or Not’ and ‘Fu-Gee-La’’s popularity on TikTok. ‘Ready or Not’ is a cold ominous track that stands the test of time and displays Lauryn’s prowess as a rapper. Their cover of ‘Killing Me Softly With His Song’ became their biggest hit – and for good reason with Lauryn’s incredible vocals touching the hearts of many. ‘Fu-Gee-La’ is super catchy with its infectious beat and chorus that invites the listener to sing along. Overall, the album displays everything you could want from a hip hop album with smooth flows, memorable beats, and excellent productions. Despite it being almost two hours long time flies when listening to it.

Lauryn’s only solo album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill released in 1998 is also an album any soul, R&B, hip hop, or rap fan is guaranteed to enjoy. With lush production, passionate vocals performances, and melodies that will grip you and won’t let go, it’s plain to see why the album won five Grammys. The concept of the album is airtight with Lauryn delivering several lessons through the tracks and the skits set in a school with the teacher asking the students questions about love and relationships. The album delves into several themes such as love, motherhood, heartbreak, and religion.

Lauryn is one of the key figures in influencing women’s style in hip hop culture as well as being a muse for the fashion world in general. Her style has been an inspiration for several fashion collections such as the s/s 2000 Dior collection, the 2017 hip hop collection by Alexander Wang, and the Menswear s/s 2021 Louis Vuitton collection. Associated with the revival of the natural hair movement, she is known for styling her hair in braids, locs, and afros. Lauryn’s outfits scream cool girl with her mixture of feminine dresses with more masculine pieces like sports jackets, bucket hats, and trainers. The pops of colour in her makeup and clothes make her always eye-catching. Whilst her look is a little less out there than Doja’s we definitely see the influence Lauryn has in Doja’s unique style.

Rihanna & Grace Jones

Barbadian singer, actress, and businesswoman Robyn Rihanna Fenty is an inspiration to many with eight acclaimed studio albums and 250 million record sales worldwide making her the second best-selling female music artist of all time after Madonna. Of course, she has people she admires herself and has Madonna, Mariah Carey, Bob Marley, Prince, and Janet Jackson as among her influences.

Grace Jones certainly inspires Rihanna’s style with Rihanna recently donning an ensemble very similar to Jones’ style throughout the years.Lady Gaga, Annie Lennox, Lorde, and Nile Rodgers have all spoken about Jones as an influence on their music.

The model, singer, and actress was born in Jamaica and moved to New York as a teenager. She started off as a model in the 70s before being signed by Island Records and releasing her debut album Portfolio in 1977. She really shined however when she ditched her disco sound in favour of new wave in the 80s. Jones’ fifth album Nightclubbing is the easiest place to start with her music. Though the album is genre-bending mixing elements of disco, with new wave, reggae, art pop, and R&B and therefore at first a little inaccessible to unfamiliar ears hits ‘Pull Up to the Bumper’ and ‘Demolition Man’ are sure to sway any sceptical listener. Slinky, smoky, and mechanical it’s a mood setter for a drizzly cold evening.

Jones has been a muse for designers Issey Miyake and Thierry Mugler as well as for photographer and artist Andy Warhol. Renowned for her androgynous looks inspired by gay culture she is often pictured wearing sharp suits, gloves, and a scarf headdress blending the lines between masculine and feminine dress. She is famous for wearing striking eye make-up, contour that accentuates her high cheekbones, a red lip, and her boxy short haircut.

Shygirl & Róisín Murphy

Our favourite new rapper, DJ, and singer-songwriter Shygirl has some varied influences – unsurprising considering her distinctive sound. The hyperpop nymph Blane Muse from South London, whose debut album Nymph dropped last year, listed Mariah Carey, Aphex Twin, Madonna, Rihanna, Björk, and Irish electropop singer Róisín Murphy as among her biggest influences in an interview with MTV.

Róisín Murphy has been making obscenely good off-the-wall electronic art pop, disco, and house music since 1994 when she first formed the duo Moloko alongside her romantic partner at the time Mark Brydon. If you want to dive into the band’s work a good place to start is their fourth and final album Statues from 2003. Since Murphy and Brydon had split before the album was made but as the group were contractually obliged to make another album Murphy handled most of the project without the help of Brydon setting the stage for her solo career. Statues is a buoyant energetic album that documents the milestones of a relationship before its disintegration with lyrics about heartbreak set to funky house instrumentals. Standout tracks are the grand ‘Forever More’ and the funky magical ‘Familiar Feeling’ although the whole album is perfect for hitting the dancefloor to.

As for Róisín’s solo albums, her latest Róisín Machine encapsulates everything that makes her so captivating as an artist. The nu-disco album features ten insanely replayable tracks all hypnotic due to the repetitive house beats and majestic spoken-word vocals. The album starts with the perfect dance track ‘Simulation’ which entrances the listener with the Daft Punk-esque synths and echoey vocals. ‘Kingdom of Ends’ is one of the best build-ups in a song with the track promising to erupt into a euphoric party at any moment but never quite delivering the satisfaction. The stupidly sexy ‘Shellfish Mademoiselle’ is a thumping rhythmic track that just oozes sleazy charm.

Although both Shygirl and Rósín Murphy are house artists their music completely differs with Róisín projecting an 80s-inspired deep house sound and Shygirl giving us house mixed with hip hop and electronica to create a cold futuristic vibe. Despite this Róisín’s experimental spirit clearly runs deep in Shygirl too with both artists bending genres to achieve new sounds.

Murphy described her performances as “a bit like The Rocky Horror Picture Show” in The Financial Times due to her audience’s tendency to dress up to mimic Murphy’s outlandish style. Avant-garde is the term that springs to mind when looking at Murphy’s experimental costumes that she wears on stage. Her looks are reminiscent of the 90s NYC club kids with boxy outfits in bright primary colours, Sioux Sioux eyeliner, and wacky concepts such as a yeti suit or a 3 headed headpiece. She can easily channel her sexy side too with her latex one-pieces and suits serving steamy coolness.

Words By: Molly Sutherland

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