When it was time for Doja Cat to dream up a 2022 Grammys look, she knew just who to call: Donatella Versace. The Italian fashion designer is no stranger to creating unforgettable Grammys moments, from Jennifer Lopez’s iconic jungle-print dress in 2000 to the present day.
For the 2022 Grammys, the designer took a page out of a history book, gleaning inspiration from Marilyn Monroe’s famous rendition of “Happy Birthday, Mr. President” to President John F. Kennedy in 1962. The actress serenaded the then-president while wearing a rhinestone embellished gown that clung to her hourglass figure. 60 years later, that signature silhouette took on a new form when it served as the catalyst for a stunning Versace gown created for Doja Cat.
“Donatella understands women and the dress looks just like the sketch,” Doja Cat explained to Vanity Fair.
Courtesy of Versace
Working with Brett Alan Nelson, the pop star’s creative director and stylist, to achieve the breathtaking look, the Versace team spent 300 hours constructing the gown and an additional 175 hours to hand-embroider the details. “Brett and I have an amazing creative connection where we bounce ideas off of each other and he always over-delivers,” the “Say So” singer said of their partnership.
The finished product? A satin corset with crystal-embellished boning, layered with a crystal embroidered tulle dress for a wet effect. “I have worked with Versace throughout the years, and I have always been such a fan of their atelier looks. I reached out to the team and told them that we wanted to give sex, in a mint blue color, sheer with a little hint of Marylin Monroe, but with an edge,” Nelson said.
Courtesy of Versace