If there’s something we know for sure, it’s that there is no one way to Beyonce. As we approach the end of another decade, we’re taking a trip down memory lane to look at how Queen Bey’s music played a key role in her style evolution through the years. From being a part of one of the greatest musical trios of all time – Destiny’s Child, to taking the world by storm with her solo career moves; Beyonce Knowles has been a force to reckon with. Amidst chart-topping numbers and iconic red carpet looks, Queen Bey has also greatly inspired a culture that is independent, fun & doesn’t require a nod of ‘yes’ from anyone.
Smart enough to make millions, strong enough to bare the children and then get back to business; she never fails to acknowledge how women truly do Run The World! In a 2018 interview with Vogue, she distinctly mentioned her desire to showcase her true self and nothing less than that. “I don’t like too much structure. I like to be free,” were her exact words and needless to say, the world has seen these lines take center stage each time she makes an appearance.
But wait, her music hasn’t just inspired people (not just women) and playlists but has also managed to create a global style wave that is unlikely to hit the shores and dissipate for years to come. Her journey from Crazy in Love to Single Ladies, Run The World to Formation and beyond saw a fashion transformation that places her on the top of our bling list! This legendary musician’s unique fashion taste has undeniably lead to her being an ultimate fashion icon for younger and older generations alike.
Read on as we shine some light on significant moments in the musical genius’ professional life and style.
After an official split with the Destiny’s Child trio, followed by a chart-topping number Work It Out in 2002; as if on cue, Beyonce’s metamorphosis started in full force. Her solo debut as an artist was a hit, but the image she created for herself with the music video gave the world a glimpse of what was to come. Till date, her 70s funk inspired afro and the slinky shimmer dresses may be criticized but they sure got her noticed – for good.
Come 2003, Bey made a major shift from her disco image towards more sensual and bolder music and style. She gave couples pop-romantic & heated tracks to groove to, Crazy in Love & Baby Boy being among the global favourites. This is when she waved goodbye to her 70s inspired style, replacing it with bold peppy colours instead. Spotted in a corset dress on the red carpet with slicked-back hair and a sensual high slit; she made sure the paparazzi knew she was here to stay!
By 2006, she had established herself as the ultimate diva. From delivering one smashing hit to another, Beyonce owned up to her musical & sartorial success with looks that pleased MANY. Songs like Deja Vu and Beautiful Liar placed her on top of the musical charts, and strongly stated that this queen wasn’t one to shy away from skin show! The red carpets saw a similar fierce image in the form of sequin-clad dresses. We’re still reeling about this Elie Saab gown that Beyonce stunned in! With glossy lips and dramatic eyes, the future never looked brighter for the R&B queen!
The way Single Ladies grabbed every woman’s attention regardless of their relationship status, not many songs can. Just like the lyrics to this iconic track were on everyone’s lips, Beyonce too was the talk of Tinseltown. Right after delivering a groovy track like this one, she then went forward and collaborated with Lady Gaga giving us Telephone. Another great move! We could all see how this was reflected in her red-carpet style, as Bey was photographed looking bolder & brighter than ever in figure-hugging silhouettes and no bars held on sequins & shimmer. Her style observed a lot more structure too, but in a way that celebrated each and every curve!
Fast forward to 2013, the Drunk in Love star was globally recognised as a fashion icon thanks to her impeccable taste and constant style evolution. This party girl no longer needed a style ladder; she had climbed way up! Gone were her shimmery gown days, it was time to break the rules. Photographed in a semi-sheer catsuit for the 2014 Met Gala, she revamped her style with bolder beauty looks. Levelling up from the previous year, her 2015 Met Gala look is one that we just can’t get over! Exuding confidence, she stood tall in a barely-there bejewelled Givenchy gown with a high ponytail. Safe to say, we’re watching Partition on repeat.
Let’s talk about 2019 now, shall we? After all the noise that Bey’s maternity looks made and the million awards she has been graced with, one thing is for sure; there’s really no outdoing her! One look at the 2002 afro and 2019 finger curls, and we know she’s come a long way. The way Bey manages to strike the right balance between exaggeration and structure has all our votes! From oversized hats to all-out bling – a major fashion moment was made in a custom Alexander McQueen (on the left) at the premiere of The Lion King. The star made fans groove to numbers like Spirit and Mood 4 Eva.
Moving swiftly from peppy dance numbers to mellowed down tunes, independent-gal hits to heated romances; there’s at least one Beyonce song we can all relate to. Always in line with what she’s trying to deliver through her music, our bling queen never fails to stun! We can’t wait to see what’s next for this ultimate diva. But in the meantime, we say – get your 6-inch heels out and walk into the club like nobody’s business. This party season, be New Year ready & bling it like Beyonce!
Take a look at this fashion and music icon’s Grammy Awards style evolution since her solo debut.
Image Credits: Pinterest