When I think of musicians turned fashion icons, Grace Jones is one of the first to come to mind. A model turned actress turned singer originally from Jamaica, Grace was most popular in the 70s and 80s. In the Studio 54 days, she was a muse to Andy Warhol. Later on, she got signed to Island Records came out with a bunch of danceable hits. Yeah, she was busy, but not too busy to inspire generations of fashionistas to come with her avant-garde outfits and ‘dos!
The Flat-Top
The flat-top hairdo Grace sported in the early 80s went on to be what every fresh(prince) dude was sporting in the 90s like Kid N’ Play pictured in the middle. Fast-forward to London Fashion Week 2009 and all the ladies on the Runway for Basso and Brooke’s Spring/Summer were sporting gravity-defying flat-tops.
The Pantsuit
A lot of ladies look amazing in pantsuits but none rocked like Grace at the time. The androgynous combo of a great suit and faded haircut are great signatures for both Grace and current R&B darling, Janelle Monae.
Tribal Body Art
Rihanna’s Grace-inspired tribal bodysuit for the Rude Boy video doesn’t look nearly as daring as Grace does in very similar body paint. Even in that crazy pose!
The Dramatic Headpiece
We know Mother Monster loves her a good headpiece but Grace knows how to work ‘em too. Take notes Gaga!
The Hooded Jumpsuit
Grace looks gorgeous in this purple Azzedine Alaia (pictured next to her) piece and the look still turns heads on the runway for Dian Von Furstenberg Spring/Summer 2011.
And here’s the video for Love is the Drug from 1980 so you can just take in some crazy, colourful, seizure-inducing visuals!
Tagged celebrity style, Grace Jones, Janelle Monae, lady gaga, music, rihanna
