Erykah Badu Is The CFDA's Newest Fashion Icon

Erykah Badu is that girl—always has been, always will be. A true style chameleon, her outfits are a masterclass in maximalism. We’re talking bold patterns, daring prints, an unexpected mashup of fabrics, and aesthetics that somehow come together flawlessly. Nothing is off-limits when it comes to this songstress’ fashion. Since bursting on the scene, the “What Men Want” actress has been breaking all the fashion rules—if there are any—and redefining her look with every outfit she rocks. She’s the queen of versatility, seamlessly blending Afrofuturism with bohemian chic, mixing in high fashion and urban streetwear. RELATED: Erykah Badu Gives ‘Main Character Energy’ In Marni One day, Erykah is draped in the structured brilliance of Thom Browne; the next, she’s floating in a whimsy Marni fit. And whether she tops off her look with a headwrap or a larger-than-life hat, Erykah makes us gag every time.

Erykah Badu received her fashion flowers – and it’s about time.

Love Black America Web? Get more! Join the Black America Web Newsletter

Subscribe

We care about your data. See our privacy policy.

Now, Erykah’s fierce approach to fashion is getting the recognition it deserves. The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) has named her the Fashion Icon of the Year. The CFDA, best known for running New York Fashion Week, has officially added Erykah to an iconic list of trendsetters who’ve shaped the fashion world. Other recipients include Pharrell, Beyoncé, Naomi Campbell, Zendaya, and Serena Williams. “Erykah Badu and fashion are synonymous in many ways,” CFDA chair Thom Browne said in a press release. “[She] effortlessly exudes herself, her unique point of view, through the clothing she chooses to wear… and each look she dreams up is so individual and true to herself.” Erykah is finally getting her well-deserved fashion flowers. We love to see it. Her style has been a major inspiration for fashionistas who live by the motto: “More is more.” Erykah shared her gratitude for the honor, saying, “This honor is amazing, and I do not take it for granted. I’ve always had a love for taking bits and pieces of the things I am attracted to, and creating something far more grand than the sum of those parts.” The CFDA Fashion Awards take place on October 28, and we cannot wait to see what the fashion icon wears. Until then, let’s scroll through some of Erykah Badu’s most iconic looks.

1. Bottega Veneta RTW Spring/Summer 2023

Erykah Badu sits front row at Bottega Veneta RTW Spring/Summer 2023 on September 24, 2022 during Milan Fashion Week. Erykah’s coat is everything!

2. Vogue Fashion World- September 2022

Erykah Badu stunted at the Vogue World Fashion Show held during New York Fashion Week in September 2022. Her take on red plaid is a moment. 

 

3. Valentino – Paris Fashion Week – Womenswear Spring/Summer 2023

 Erykah Badu attended the Valentino Womenswear Spring/Summer 2023 in haute pink! She lit up the City of lights in a monochromatic fit that served the girls! Move over Barbie girls, Ms. Badu is coming through.

4. The 2023 Met Gala Celebrating "Karl Lagerfeld: A Line Of Beauty"

Erykah Badu glides on the 2023 Met Gala Celebrating “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line Of Beauty” carpet. She channels Kark’s love for black and white with a flowy white gown and silver hat.

5. 44th Annual Grammys

Taken more than two decades ago, this picture shows Erykah’s approach to effortless style. Posing at the 44th Annual Grammy Awards, the singer wears a white and brown gown with chunky moon boots, multi-colored bangles, and black and green braids.

6. Paramount Pictures' "What Men Want" Premiere

Erykah Badu gave the girls body at Paramount Pictures’ “What Men Want” premiere in January 2019. Her curves were on full display in this printed body suit. Her slouchy boots and wide brim hat added just enough flair.

7. 2nd Annual GQ Global Creativity Awards

Erykah Badu’s artistic expression was at an all time high at the 2nd Annual GQ Global Creativity Awards. She wore a whimsy fit with all the drama. From her painted fur top hat to her mixed pattern fit, Erykah was truly a walking “werk of art.”

8. The 2021 Met Gala Celebrating In America: A Lexicon Of Fashion

No one slays like Erykah Badu.  Attends the 2021 Met Gala “Celebrating In America: A Lexicon Of Fashion,” she elevated the sophisticated colors of black and white with white pom pom lined puffy scarf.

9. New York Fashion Week 2016

Erykah Badu arrived at the Givenchy fashion show during Spring 2016 New York Fashion Week and all eyes were on her. The singer paired lioness hair with a fringe fur jacket, velvet skirt, and layered top.

10. The 2024 Met Gala Celebrating "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion"

It’s giving bright and bold! Erykah Badu attended the 2024 Met Gala celebrating “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion” in a colorful dress that we’re still talking about.