“Something Old, Something Blue: How Tyla Reinvented an Aaliyah Classic”
In a masterful fusion of Y2K nostalgia and contemporary glamour, rising star Tyla orchestrated what can only be described as a sartorial coup at the 2024 MTV EMAs in Manchester. The “Water” songstress didn’t just walk the red carpet – she transported us through fashion’s time portal with an ingenious reinterpretation of one of R&B’s most iconic red carpet moments.
Drawing inspiration from the late, legendary Aaliyah’s show-stopping appearance at the 2000 MTV VMAs, Tyla emerged in a Roberto Cavalli creation that sent fashion historians into a collective swoon. The piece in question? A teal masterwork from Cavalli’s fall 2000 collection, featuring the same architectural genius as Aaliyah’s original yellow version, but reimagined in a celestial blue that felt thoroughly modern.
The parallels to Aaliyah’s legendary moment were unmistakable – from the sensuous cowl neckline to the dramatically fur-trimmed leg slit, all accented by those fierce black tiger stripes that have become synonymous with Cavalli’s most daring designs. Yet, Tyla’s styling team, led by the visionary Ronnie Hart (whose client roster includes fashion darlings Sabrina Carpenter and Anitta), managed to infuse the look with distinctly contemporary edge.
Where Aaliyah opted for minimalist black heels, Tyla elevated the drama with statement-making black leather boots, featuring intricate cutouts that serpentined their way just shy of her knees. But the true coup de grâce? A Jacob & Co. choker necklace watch valued at an eye-watering $1 million, complemented by diamond-encrusted hoops and a bracelet that caught every camera flash in the house.
The beauty team worked their own magic, with hairstylist Louis Souvestre creating a sophisticated half-updo that highlighted Tyla’s caramel-kissed tresses – a modern twist on Aaliyah’s signature straight locks. Makeup artist Jimmy Stam completed the vision with a perfect balance of edge and elegance: sharp black liner juxtaposed against a nude lip that felt both timeless and thoroughly now.
This wasn’t just another red carpet moment; it was a masterclass in fashion resurrection, proving that true style transcends generations. As Tyla collected her two awards that evening, she didn’t just pay homage to a legend – she carved out her own space in the pantheon of unforgettable MTV awards show looks.
