“I see it, I like it, I want it, I got it”: an analysis of Ariana Grande’s style
As someone who knows Ariana Grande from the Nickelodeon show Victorious, I found myself having trouble fully appreciating her music at first, even if I now found myself to be wholly obsessed. However, before I reached the point of appreciating her music, my fashion-minded brain found room to love her distinctive style. After all, there is something simplistic, feminine, and- dare I say it?- “childishly” understated about her manner of dressing.
While each outfit has its own bit of flair, there are some pieces that continue to pop up and outfits that are seemingly her go-to. If you’re interested in recreating some of Grande’s looks or want to know more about her well-known outfits, then keep scrolling to read more because there are definitely some style hacks you’ll find here!
The ponytail
One of the most recognizable pieces of Grande’s style is the signature high ponytail, sophisticated and sleek. In fact, I argue it's now hard for any Millennial or Gen Z person aware of her to see a high ponytail without thinking of the singer. However, the story of how she came to get this look wasn’t all by choice. After playing the infamous redhead of Cat in Victorious, her hair was stripped and damaged from the constant dye jobs. By placing extensions into her hair and putting it into a high ponytail the damage would be hidden and as it quickly became an iconic part of her style, even after her hair became healthier she chose not to change it.
The tip worth stealing: when in doubt, a ponytail will save the day!
High heels and sweatshirts
Given that Grande is on the shorter side, she often pairs mini dresses and oversized sweatshirts with high-heeled boots to create the illusion of her being taller. This elongates her legs and gives off an air of ‘I just woke up like this.”
The tip worth stealing: whether you’re as statuesque as a model (jealous!) or fear you’re too short (I can guarantee you aren’t) showing a minimal amount of leg with the addition of heels can certainly elevate your look.
Sporty pieces
If you’ve yet to see the fantastic photo of Grande skipping in the rain in a gray tracksuit then you’re missing out. Apart from being an excellent shot, this image shows off her relaxed outfits that she often wears out. Seeing this side of her style is excellent, because so often stars tend to leave the house ready to be followed by the paparazzi and are thus in pre-endorsed outfits. Seeing Grande don logoless track suits? Now that’s like skipping in the rain!
The tip worth stealing: never be afraid of sweatpants!
G-L-A-M-O-U-R-O-U-S
On the red carpet, she certainly gets dolled up a bit more with heavy cat-eye makeup and her signature ponytail. High heels are once again a staple for her with strapless gowns and full-skirted dresses. This can be seen time and again with her 2018 Met Gala look along with the many outfits she’s worn to the Grammy’s when collecting her awards. This use of highly feminine dressing certainly helps when it comes to her idol status because it is always so pristine and seems as if it came out of a dream.
The tip worth stealing: channel Grande yourself when dressing up for a night out by not being afraid to be as frilly as you want. I think you’ll find it quite freeing!
