The fashion icon that is Solange Knowles turns 30 years old today! We’re celebrating the major fashion inspiration this style star has given us by recreating some of her coolest looks. Channeling her penchant for bright colors, bold shapes and effortlessly chic vibes, ESSENCE editors give their best attempt at capturing her cool-girl style.
“How classic is Solange’s orange off-the-shoulder moment? I love how she incorporated a bright lip to top off the look.” –Dominique Hobdy, Assistant Fashion Editor
“This C/MEO Collective jumpsuit definitely captures the bold yet chic feel of Solange’s look. The eye-catching color, structured cut and off-the-shoulder detail are definitely on brand. Thank God for impulse buys”
“Bold silver accessories completed the look. I went for silver loafers instead of pumps because Solange loves to pair an unexpected style of shoe with her outfits.”
“Big hair, bright bandeaus and high-waisted white pants are what summer Instagram dreams were made of!” -Virginia Lowman, Assistant Digital Beauty Editor
“I couldn’t find a bandeau with a sweetheart neckline so I used this olive-hued scarf as a top instead. This is the one perk to having a small bust: more versatility when it comes to repurposing clothing and accessories.”
“If you don’t have white pants, culottes are a cool alternative. Pair them with a funky shoe à la Solange, and strike a casual (and fierce) pose. Tip: the “no-looker” pose is always a winner—a little mysterious, a little alluring and always worth the double-tap.”
“I still remember seeing this look for the first time while covering fashion week. Those boots! That dress! Those shades! It was an outfit to remember.” –Dominique Hobdy, Assistant Fashion Editor
“This relaxed fit Anthropologie dress paired with Asos gladiator sandals may not be an exact replica of Solange’s fashion week outfit but it’s a great summer ensemble, easy and breezy.”
“Solange is good for a fun, in-the-moment pose so I had to give a little of that off during the shoot.”
“Everyone remembers the shock and awe they felt after seeing the first photos from Solange’s epic NOLA wedding. Who didn’t want to incorporate a cape into every outfit after that? I love the elegance of the cape paired with the peek-a-boo factor of the plunging neckline.” – Virginia Lowman, Assistant Digital Beauty Editor
“If you can’t find a jumpsuit with a cape, opt for one that is lightweight with straps that are long enough to style it in different ways. Toss one strap over each shoulder like I did here and watch the heads turn. You’ll feel as glamorous as Solange even if it’s just for a moment.”
“When you’re dressed in an outfit that makes you feel regal, the bigger the hair, the better!”
“Another cape—told you I was obsessed! Because floor-grazing capes don’t necessarily fit the aesthetic of my everyday lifestyle, this ruffled jumpsuit works well as a modified version of Solange’s citrus 2-piece set.” -Virginia Lowman, Assistant Digital Beauty Editor
“The trick to mimicking the look of a 2-piece set is finding a jumpsuit with a deep ruffle that falls just above or below the navel.”
“To up the Solange factor, incorporate a fun shoe with embellishments like fur or tassels. I paired my jumpsuit with these white faux fur heeled sandals I found on sale at Topshop last fall. Solange is known for playing with color and texture.”
In yet another fashion week slay, Solange lets the early fall breeze do the work while rocking this flowing set.
“This Zara dress was the closest I could get to Solange’s gorgeous two-piece burnt orange set. The light material and cascading hem is what ‘effortless chic’ is made of.”
“Clearly, I was in the moment and feeling super Solange-like.”
Solange is not only #StyleGoals, but #SquadGoals as well. So, here’s to all the moments she slayed alongside her girls! Happy Birthday, Solange!
