Lady Gaga – “Changing the World One Sequin at a Time” by Karlina Dawkins

“It’s not just about music. It’s about the performance, the attitude, the look; it’s everything. That is where I am as an artist and that is what I want to accomplish.” –Lady Gaga

2008 marked the year that this 23 year old Italian bred New York native gave the media something to talk about; and her name is Lady Gaga. Lady Gaga, born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, is what I would call a “baby-genius.” She learned to play the piano by ear at age 4, was performing at open mic night at 14, and was one of 20 kids in the world to get early admission to Tisch School of the Arts at NYU (where she later withdrew to focus on her music career) at 17. It is safe to say that this eccentric artist is well on her way, and fully equipped, to accomplishing the goals she has set for herself.

“I’m just trying to change the world one sequin at a time.”- Gaga

 On November 23^rd, 2009 Lady Gaga re-released her album under the title “The Fame Monster.” The album features 8 new songs fueled from the dark side of fame; that which she has experienced while touring the world. She has also begun her tour entitled “Monster Ball.” Gaga does possess a distinctive voice, and the ability to deliver her music in an innovative way. But what is it about Gaga that has everyone talking? Her elaborate sense of style, that’s what. While establishing a name for herself, Gaga performed at burlesque shows and night clubs on the lower east side of downtown New York City. The burlesque performances, city night life, rock star influences, and Gaga’s innate creativity have birthed and nurtured her iconic style.

“I was always an entertainer. I was a ham as a little girl, and I’m a ham today”-Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga’s fashion icons have been Peggy Bundy and the renowned Donatella Versace. Even fashionably self charged individuals need inspiration. Gaga began establishing her look, as well as her name, by designing and creating her show pieces for her performances in the lower east side clubs during her early career days.  When Gaga debuted to us all, in 2008, she had a bit of help in building and branding the fashionable decisions she made when simply leaving the house or putting on a show. Gaga refers to this collaborative team as Haus of Gaga. Haus of Gaga collaborates with Gaga on her music, stage sets, and fashions. Last Wednesday, December 2^nd, Grammy nominations were announced. We were on pins and needles to see how many nominations Lady Gaga would pull in. However, the real showstopper would come in January when the Annual Grammy Awards air and we are once again delighted with a fashionable surprise from our rising star (a hand full of Grammys for her to take home would also be nice). After being graced with Gaga’s eclectic ensembles at this year’s VMAs and AMAs there are only feelings of anticipation to see what she will come up with for the 2010 Grammys. So, it is no surprise that Gaga assembled a team of masterminds, Haus of Gaga, to assist in projecting her ideas for all to see. She understood that she would need some assistance if she planned on changing the world; surely if she planned on doing it with sequins [smile].

In June of 2009 B. Akerlund became Gaga’s first official personal stylist. Lady Gaga was persistent in attaining Akerlund’s services and finally won her over in time to begin work on the Paparazzi video. Prior to working with Akerlund, Gaga worked with Creative Director, Matthew Williams, under the Haus of Gaga. Akerlund was floored by Gaga’s diligence on getting them to work together, but was unaware of how she became acquainted with her work. Akerlund interviewed with Anthem Magazine where they asked her how Lady Gaga knew of her and her work. Akerlund replied:

[I have no idea. She just said she knew. I asked her, “How do you know that we’re so perfect for each other?” and she said, “I just know.” She’s like a sister that I never had.]

And perfect they are. Lady Gaga has taken the fashion world by storm. No one can expect the norm when Gaga is to be present. Outrageously fabulous hair, shoes, hats, sunglasses, jewelry, and other accessories are the cherries a top the Gaga sundae we can’t help but to devour when she hits the scene. Akerlund has a great deal of input for Gaga’s looks, but she understands that Gaga is an artist that knows what she wants and will not hesitate to take the initiative and make it herself; as she always has. These ladies don’t worry about the hottest designer or what’s trendy; they go with what they feel is right. With Gaga and Akerlund as a team, there are no limits to what we may see. A talented girl from New York with every sense of style lends for an unexpected future in the world of music and fashion.

It is as I always say, and believe in; make everything you wear your own. Life is too short to look like someone else, and fashion has no boundaries that can’t be pushed.

“I can’t live without high heels or fake lashes” – Lady Gaga 

Style Watching Lady Gaga

(Courtesy of Zimbio.com)