By Sarah Han
Staff Writer
“And the winner is … ”
Each year when the red carpet rolls out for the Grammys, it reveals our favorite musicians dressed to dazzle. The time and effort they put into their outfits doesn’t go unnoticed. The first thing they do at the Grammys is pose for the flashing cameras and prove that they not only love expressing themselves through music, but through fashion as well. This year’s Grammys proved that the most expensive dress or tux may not necessarily get the most “oohs” and “ahhs.” Different and inventive definitely ruled the garment choices for these young artists, who graced the red carpet in style.
Alicia Keys surprised everyone by abandoning the dark colors she usually wears and adding a bit of colorful culture into her outfit. Underneath the sea green sari-like wrap was a simple white tank top and fitted jeans with a colorful pattern running down the sides of the leg.
The careful construct of the sequined sheer material wrapped around her waist, shoulders and head gave a Middle Eastern look, while her matching glittery eye shadow transformed the outfit from street simple to Grammys glamorous. Take note that this particular look can’t be pulled off by all, but this young woman proved her “worth” beautifully.
India Arie also strutted across the red carpet with an ethnic touch. White is making a comeback this spring, evident in her halter top long floor-length skirt that were adored by all. The scarf added a splash of color to the skirt and complemented her flawless, bronzed skin. Rings of gold bangle bracelets wrapped around her wrists and the yellow pendant around her neck radiated a stunning Caribbean-like feeling from her outfit, full of warmth and radiance.
Nelly Furtado showed off her elegant side in a white, strapless Armani dress. The white contrasted nicely with her dark hair and her bright blue eyes, while the low-cut front showed off her delicate neckline. Her usual wrist décor wasn’t discarded just because of Grammys night. It was merely altered with a white lacey wrap around her wrist, adding a bit of her own personality to the outfit. A graceful yet reliable and sturdy, pair of white heels that actually harmonizes with a dress is a challenge to find. Nelly was lucky enough to find the perfect match. These shoes polished off her enchanting appearance, leaving admirers mesmerized.
No Doubt’s Gwen Stefani always makes an in-your-face fashion statement, and this year was no exception. Gwen’s ability to let her inner beauty shine through just makes her outer beauty more striking, no matter what she wears. Not only did the flowing, leopard-print halter dress flatter her figure, but it also revealed a graceful, yet wild side that simply defines Gwen.
Leave it up to OutKast to make the fashion gurus gasp in bewilderment. Despite their eccentric fashion styles, the fans still find them irresistible. These guys made their usual animated entrance to the Grammys, dressed in baby blue suits and white hats. Remember French-cuffed pants in the ‘80s? OutKast used this old school fashion fad to display their striped athletic socks, and why shouldn’t they? As long as they keep producing that music we love, they can wear whatever they please.
Just because our wardrobes aren’t filled with Armani or Versace doesn’t mean we can’t dress like a million bucks. What we can learn from these musicians is that you can still dress like a star without the wealth of a star. They taught us the exquisiteness of culture and the importance of elegance and invention. They encouraged us to select styles that show off our inner beauty and personality, and to be bold.
Like Madonna says, express yourself.
March 14, 2002