Janelle Monáe may have played it safe at the Grammys, but at the 2025 Costume Designers Guild Awards, she reminded us why she’s one of fashion’s most fearless risk-takers.
Honoured with the Vanguard Spotlight Award—a recognition given to artists who push creative boundaries and inspire both industry insiders and audiences—Janelle had no choice but to deliver a look as bold as her legacy. And she did not disappoint.
There was zero chance she was going to roll up in another navy suit. Instead, she stepped onto the red carpet in a Viktor & Rolf Fall 2024 Haute Couture trapezoid suit with razor-sharp, gravity-defying shoulders that could cut through any fashion debate. It was the kind of surrealist, sculptural design that demands confidence—and, of course, Janelle had it in spades.
Also, let’s take a moment to appreciate her return to her signature black-and-white palette. It’s been a minute since we’ve seen her fully embrace her trademark aesthetic, and this was a triumphant comeback.
Now, here’s the thing—you’re either going to love this, or you’re going to see it and immediately think of those carnival cutout boards where you stick your face in for a photo op. And honestly? That just makes me love it even more. Fashion should be fun, and Janelle has always understood that better than most.
She accessorized with a Dolce & Gabbana Miss Sicily bag, patent leather loafers, and a sock combo that leaned into the suit’s quirky proportions. While I personally prefer the runway styling—black tights and red pumps would’ve added an extra punch—I respect how she made it her own.
This look was daring, divisive, and totally Janelle. And that’s exactly why she deserved this award.
Stylist: Alexandra Mandelkorn.
Credit: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic / Vogue.com
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