“The Grammys always push the envelope with fashion, and that’s what I’m doing,” commented Teri Hatcher referencing her completely-sheer Jean Paul Gaultier.
Aside from Hatcher, however, the 48th Annual Grammy Awards seemed more ho-hum than hip. Much like the show itself, the Grammy’s “green carpet” style seriously lacked its usual luster, with nary a bright color or off-the-runway gown in sight.
Old Guard
Between performances from the likes of Paul McCartney and Bruce Springsteen – and U2 and Mariah Carey stealing the show (and the awards!) – this year was all about the industry pros.
Fresh from a break up, rock royalty Sheryl Crow truly sparkled in a ruffled black gown with intricate white embroidery; she may have a few years on, say, Kelly Clarkson, but Sheryl managed to outshine many of her fellow chart-toppers.
Speaking of fellow chart-toppers, a very pregnant Gwen Stefani didn’t let her new shape put a damper on her eccentric wardrobe. True to style, she chose a one-shouldered cheetah-print gown with a very flattering beaded empire waist from her L.A.M..B. collection, accessorized with bold red nails, lips, and earrings.
Fiona Apple, back in the spotlight with the Grammy-nominated The Extraordinary Machine, looked amazing in a frothy pale pink J. Mendal gown. Worn with a glistening gold sash, a mix of gold jewelry, and long, loose waves, she was a dead ringer for Mary-Kate Olsen.
R&B queen Beyonce looked her usual glamorous self in a curve-hugging, metallic dress designed by her mother, head designer of House of Dereon. The other soulful singer of the evening, Mariah Carey, began the night in a lace-trimmed black gown and later performed in a very body-hugging cream number, which seemed to be minidress morphed into a gown with the help of a little chiffon.
Fresh Faces
Though Kelly Clarkson conquered as far as Grammy awards go, the 20-something singer’s choice of gown, a basic black strapless from Max Azria Atelier, was much too conservative this event (especially at her age!).
On the opposite end of the conservative spectrum, Alicia Keys raised eyebrows in a shockingly low-cut sequined black lace Armani Prive gown.
Hip hop singer Ciara, who usually chooses equally scant gowns, wore a rather angelic white Alberta Ferretti frock with a waist-defining rhinestone belt. For her Sly & the Family Stone performance, Ciara opted for a thigh skimming little black dress (emphasis on little!)
Famed for her soulful music and hippie-chic style, Joss Stone started the night in a graphic-print Roberto Cavalli, topped with diamonds and a daisy. She switched gears to a wild multi-colored striped gown for her performance.
On the male front, trendsetting Kanye West, who typically favors preppy Ralph Lauren polos, showed up in a chest-baring YSL outfit reminisce of Al Pacino in Scarface. Want particulars? The look consisted of a white blazer, red navel-baring oxford, black pants. To finish it off, Kanye chose a huge gold pendant, black leather gloves, and plastic aviator sunglasses. It wasn’t a good idea in the eighties and certainly isn’t a good idea now.
Outstanding Grammy Trends
- Neutral colors
Black and white were the two shades of choice; those feeling particularly adventurous, like Fergie from the Black Eyed Peas, chose champagne or beige. - Red details
Cherry red lipstick, dark maroon nail polish, and rubies jazzed up the otherwise colorless palette showing up on Beyonce, Gwen Stafani, Christina Aguilera, and more. - Corsets
An waist-cinching corset is universally flattering, essential for look paparazzi-perfect. Madonna donned a shimmering purple version for her showstopping opening performance. - Metallics
A huge trend from Fall ‘05, metallics had an enormous presence. Destiny’s Child, Paula Abdul, and India.Arie all glistened in gold.
