Name: Mary J. Blige
Occupation: Queen of hip-hop soul, philanthropist and founder of FFAWN, and fashion design collaborator
No More Drama dressing: The NYC native, hip-hop hero, and style superstar is known as much for her signature boots-and-shades chic as for her Grammy-winning tunes (nine and counting!). The way of Mary J is always sexy, strong, and sensible as well. "Less is more for me," says the Bronx-born icon. "You gotta be comfortable. That's my motto."
Designing women: A lifelong fan of fashion, Blige is designing her own line of sunglasses, Melodies By MJB, and collaborating with industry greats. She has partnered with two friends and favorite designers: Catherine Malandrino and Gucci's Frida Giannini. "For every woman in my generation, or just women, period, Gucci is our go-to," says Blige. "And meeting Frida and hearing her story, it's just wow. Turns out she's one of those women who gave herself a chance. I want to partner with people who have something to say."
Foreign fashions: Blige, who hits the road again in October with her Music Saved My Life Tour, is loyal to her hometown style above all others. "I don't dress LA. I just can't." But she salutes the British uniform. "Oh my god, leaning into London fashion? Amazing. The women, they kill the boots and the jackets!"
"I admire Halle Berry because she always wears stuff that works for her. She just always looks nice. And Charlize — they never look like they're forcing anything, they just wear what works for them."
