The Sound of Style

Singers and fashion can be an iffy combination. Sometimes they get it right, but usually due to over the top theatrical costumes, they get it wrong. Really wrong. Fortunately, two very classy ladies have been changing the unstylish face of music. And thanks to them, the Grammys red carpet might not have to be such a freak show after all.

Marina and the Diamonds

First, let's start with my queen - Marina and the Diamonds. Don't let the stage name fool you, this is one singer not a band. Marina Diamandis won my heart with her materialistic and self loving hit, Primadonna. How could I not adore someone who was singing about all my core values and making statements like "all I ever wanted was the world"! In addition to her incredible vocal talent and entertaining song writing, Marina has a quirky and girly style. Or as Marina would would put it, style that is inspired by Marilyn Monroe, Madonna, and Marie Antoinette. In her music videos, she's playful with her varying themes (See: American dream, HBIC Power & Control, and a sultry Heartbreaker). On stage, she stays true to her Electra Heart persona with a simple silhouette, high platforms, and the trademark heart drawn on her cheek. She has the appearance of a barbie doll but the kind of soul that can connect with you through so many relatable experiences in her music. 

Lana Del Rey

And then there's Lana Del Rey, a bit more melancholic artist. With themes emphasizing on wasted youth, short love, and abandonment, Lana's dark image can get a little depressing. But like Marina, she's a lyrical goddess. Throw in a little sass ("I'm your little harlot, starlet, Queen of Coney island"), some danger ("kiss me hard in the pouring rain, you like your girls insane"), and some sadness ("been trying hard not to get into trouble, but I've got a war in my mind"). Lana loves living on the edge and the storytelling of her music videos show that. Other things to note in those lengthy videos is her style, from her heavy makeup and long nails to her classic appearances. Del Rey describes herself as a "self-styled gangsta Nancy Sinatra". Her mix of retro and rebellion has won over major fashion fans, earned Vogue editorials, and landed her a contract as the spokesmodel for H&M.