Having just finished a style cycle in which the terms high fashion and celebrity evoked designer jeans, T-shirts, and UGGs rather than sequins, spikes, and wild glasses, Gaga's performances mark a return to over-the-top showmanship. In an era when even Bootsy Collins, Elton John, and Madonna are dressing tamely, Gaga has nearly single-handedly brought blinking attire back to the stage.
"She's given us all permission to be bold in our fashion statements, even to have a little fun," said Karen Giberson, who lives in Media and is president of the New York-based Accessories Council. In 2009, the council deemed Lady Gaga its Stylemaker of the Year, and she did not disappoint when she arrived at the ceremony, her face covered in lace and a veil, with a white wig reminiscent of Marie Antoinette. "It's always so interesting to see what she's going to do next. You can't possibly guess what it will be," Giberson said.
Gaga has already influenced a gang of young artists, including rapper Nicki Minaj - with her pink-banged bob - as well as pop singers Katy Perry and Adam Lambert, both of whom choose glittery Goth over all-American casual. You might have noticed new artist Ke$ha sports a look complete with blue lipstick, stacks of plastic watches she wears like bangles, and sparkling eye covers. Haven't we seen that on Gaga? Even 10-year-old Willow Smith - daughter of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith - flipped her hair "back and forth" in a Mohawk, sheered leggings, and multicolored nails, surely all Gaga-inspired.
