When the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) announced Erykah Badu as the 2024 Fashion Icon Award recipient, it felt like the ultimate “finally!” moment. The CFDA is an organisation that represents and supports fashion designers, honouring those who made a major impact in the industry. From day one, Badu has made her unique mark on fashion with a unique style that’s truly her own, and no one makes a red carpet moment quite like she does. From her towering hat or flowing silhouette, every outfit tells a story—and it’s all authentically Badu.
Here’s a look at five iconic times she shut it down.
The 2024 GQ Creativity Awards
At the GQ Creativity Awards in New York City, Badu turned heads in a Marni masterpiece. Her black-and-white coatdress was a mix of elegance and avant-garde, with red detailing and accessorised with grey gloves for that extra touch of mystery. And, of course, Badu’s signature sky-high hat made an appearance, this time topping off the look with a surreal, oversized accessory featuring a yellow and black tulle overlay. With this one, she reminded us all that in her world, more is definitely more.
Met Gala magic (2022)
For the Met Gala celebrating “In America: An Anthology of Fashion”, Badu’s ensemble was nothing short of iconic. She went for a look that combined classic Americana with her own eccentric twist. Like a beacon on the red carpet, Badu stood out in her signature mix of layers, textures, and, yes, another glorious hat. She somehow pulled off high drama and effortless cool in the same outfit—how does she do it?
A hooded look at the Austin Film Society (2020)
For the 20th annual Texas Film Awards in Austin, Badu took her eclectic style up a notch in a white garment featuring airbrushed Louis Vuitton Damier Ebene patterns. It was part art piece, part fashion statement, and totally Badu. The tight hood added an almost futuristic feel to the outfit, showing off her ability to reinvent classic patterns in ways only she could.
A bold vision in yellow (2016 Soul Train Music Awards)
When Badu arrived at the 2016 Soul Train Music Awards in a voluminous yellow gown, it was the fashion moment we didn’t know we needed. The bright yellow was bold, playful, and full of life, much like the artist herself. With oversized sleeves and a flowing skirt, the gown had a whimsical, almost otherworldly vibe. Topped off with her signature hat, this time in burgundy, the look cemented her as a true fashion visionary.
The iconic green moment (2000 Oscars)
Badu’s green gown at the 2000 Oscars was a showstopper for the ages. Collaborating with her friend Charlene Sheppard, Erykah Badu crafted a look that was intentional and deeply personal. Working with Black designers and artisans to bring her vision to life. The dress itself featured bold yellow raffia accents and a matching head wrap, radiating power and heritage. This early red-carpet moment became a defining statement, establishing the fearless, boundary-pushing style that would become her signature.
With every outfit, Erykah Badu continues to remind us that fashion can be more than just clothes. She’s not just dressing to impress; she’s dressing to express—her mood, her heritage, and her unapologetic individuality. And that’s what makes her a true icon.
