Richard Dale
Ahead of her Met Gala debut, Queen Latifah shared her excitement about joining what she described as “the tribe of Thom Browne.” The renowned designer, celebrated for his austere yet whimsical tailoring, had previously dressed Queen Latifah for her BET Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021, an experience she described as feeling “gorgeous.” For Queen Latifah, Browne’s work evokes nostalgic memories of her days in Catholic school, where uniforms were the norm.
Reflecting on her time in Catholic school, Queen Latifah recalled the constant quest to infuse personal style into her uniform attire. She noted that Browne’s designs resonate with her because of their attention to fine details and unique presentation. Each garment, she observed, possesses a distinctiveness that allows it to feel special and individualized, a sentiment echoed by many who wear Browne’s creations.
Despite Browne’s recognizable aesthetic, Queen Latifah emphasized that his designs manage to imbue a sense of uniqueness to each wearer. Whether it’s the precise tailoring, the unexpected detailing, or the overall presentation, Browne’s garments possess a versatility that allows them to adapt to the wearer’s style and personality.
As Queen Latifah prepared to make her mark on the Met Gala red carpet, she anticipated a surge of energy akin to the buzzing excitement of bees swarming around a hive. This metaphorical imagery captured the anticipation and vibrancy surrounding her debut in Browne’s ensemble, symbolizing the sense of unity and collective excitement she felt as part of Browne’s creative “tribe.”
With her admiration for Browne’s work and her own unique style, Queen Latifah looked forward to showcasing her interpretation of Browne’s designs at the Met Gala, confident that she would bring her own flair to the celebrated designer’s creations.
