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Home • Fashion

Channeling Nostalgia With This Celebrity Look: Mary J. Blige

Blige caused a scene in this look years back at the 38th Grammy Awards in 1996. Embrace your inner star by emulating it.
Channeling Nostalgia With This Celebrity Look: Mary J. Blige
Getty Images
By Mecca Pryor · Updated January 8, 2025

Mary J. Blige, a global superstar and fashion icon, has been delivering excellent looks and timeless style since the start of her career. Hailing from the Bronx, Blige debuted with her beloved album What’s the 411?, which masterfully blended R&B, hip-hop, and soul, earning her the title of the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul” and define an entire genre. She went on to release projects such as My Life and Mary. Blige’s extensive discography has earned her nine Grammy Awards, 37 Grammy nominations, and 15 studio albums, many of which have achieved multi-platinum status.

Her talents extend beyond music, as she has also found success in Hollywood, making her acting debut on The Jamie Foxx Show and starring as Monet, a pivotal character in Power Book II: Ghost. Blige has also ventured into the fashion world, collaborating with renowned shoe designer Giuseppe Zanotti to release the limited-edition Mary Boot, which sold out almost instantly. A second collaboration followed which also sold out.

One memorable outfit is a bold, head-to-toe cheetah print ensemble, complete with a matching shawl draped over her head, ankle-length pants, black sunglasses, and gloves, which she rocked at the 38th Annual Grammy Awards in 1996.

This timeless look can be effortlessly recreated by clicking the shopping links below, allowing you to infuse a bit of Mary’s style into your own wardrobe. From past to present, Mary remains a style icon worth emulating.

01
01 Nocturne Leopard Crop Jacket
While Mary opted for a shawl, you can get a similar look by selecting this leopard print jacket from Nocturne. Available at Nocturne
135 Shop Now
02
02 Nocturne Pencil Skirt
Opt for a skirt instead of pants to create a more feminine silhouette, which will soften the structured look of the matching jacket. Available at Nocturne
159 Shop Now
03
03 Miss Selfridge Brushed Oversized Maxi Coat

This type of jacket is trending hard right now. Pick this one up from Miss Selfridge to top off an all-leopard look or just your go-to winter ensemble.

Available at ASOS
139 Shop Now
04
04 Miaou Cam Top In Leopard
Embrace a sexier look with this form-fitting top from Miaou. Available at Miaou
135 Shop Now
05
05 Miaou Emma Capri
While capris have come back among younger generations, embrace the trend by choosing a flattering silhouette. Available at Miaou
185 Shop Now
06
06 Elisa Johnson Cookie Sunglasses
No look is complete without a pair of blacked-out shades. Choose this stylish pair from Elisa Johnson to finish off the outfit. Available at Nordstrom
86 Shop Now

TOPICS:  Channeling Nostalgia Mary J. Blige
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