The pair were immediately drawn to the oversized suit, which featured subtle gold detailing and an extended shoulder. “It felt perfect,” said Mandelkorn
Janelle Monáe chose a more subdued look for the 2025 Grammy Awards, opting for a navy menswear-inspired suit from Area, rather than the bold and extravagant outfits she is known for. Attending the ceremony at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, the 39-year-old singer and her stylist, Alexandra Mandelkorn, felt the occasion called for a respectful and refined approach, especially given that the event was raising funds for the city’s wildfire relief efforts.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Mandelkorn explained the decision, saying, “We pulled things that were more avant-garde, a bit more wacky and out there, but that doesn’t feel like the mindset right now. Janelle and I are always on the same page about things, and we’ve talked about this moment in time. Doing things extra-large or over the top doesn’t feel right.”
The stylist emphasized that the focus was on Janelle’s comfort and confidence. “Ultimately, this was about Janelle feeling good in what she’s wearing, but not feeling like all eyes are going to be on her because what she’s wearing is so out there,” Mandelkorn added. “This doesn’t feel like the moment for that.”
The pair were immediately drawn to the oversized suit, which featured subtle gold detailing and an extended shoulder. “It felt perfect,” said Mandelkorn. “She loved the shoulders and the oversized element of it, so it’s not totally out of her wheelhouse.” Monáe paired the suit with a military-inspired captain’s hat, chain necklaces from Maison H. Jewels, and platform shoes by Ralph Lauren. Mandelkorn explained the choice of the hat, saying, “[The hat] is giving a little bit of Janet [Jackson], a little bit of Grace Jones, and that’s what really sold Janelle on it.”
Finishing the look with classic accessories, Monáe’s outfit was a perfect blend of cool, powerful, and comfortable, without drawing undue attention. Mandelkorn noted that jewelry is often a last-minute decision, based on what Janelle is feeling in the moment, but the Ralph Lauren platforms remain a go-to choice for the artist.
