Cardi B, the Bronx-born rapper turned global superstar, has never been one to shy away from making a statement—whether in her music, personality, or fashion. Her journey from humble beginnings to dominating red carpets in custom Moschino pieces is a testament to her fearless approach to style and her rise as a cultural icon.
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Let’s take a closer look at Cardi B’s style evolution, from her days of DIY outfits to becoming one of fashion’s boldest stars.
The Early Days: DIY Fashion and Bronx Roots
Before Cardi B became a household name, she was already making waves on social media with her hilarious videos and unique sense of style. Raised in the Bronx, Cardi often relied on creativity to stand out. She would mix and match affordable pieces, often from fast-fashion retailers, and accessorize with oversized jewelry and fur coats to create a signature look.
As a stripper in her early twenties, Cardi’s outfits often leaned toward bold, body-conscious styles that highlighted her curves. Her ability to confidently rock anything—whether it was a $20 dress or a sparkly two-piece set—hinted at her future as a trendsetter.
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“I always wanted to look good, even if I didn’t have a lot of money,” Cardi said in an interview. “You can still look fly on a budget.”
2017: A Breakout Year with “Bodak Yellow”
Cardi B’s breakout hit Bodak Yellow in 2017 catapulted her into the spotlight, and with her newfound fame came opportunities to elevate her wardrobe. Even as she began gracing red carpets, Cardi’s early looks stayed true to her personality—bold colors, daring silhouettes, and a touch of Bronx swagger.
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One memorable moment came at the 2017 BET Hip Hop Awards, where she wore a dazzling purple gown with thigh-high slits, embodying both glamour and attitude. Her love for vibrant, over-the-top fashion became increasingly apparent, setting her apart from other stars.
2018: The Year of High Fashion Beginnings
In 2018, Cardi B took her fashion game to the next level. With the release of her debut album, Invasion of Privacy, her style became a powerful extension of her persona. She began working with celebrity stylist Kollin Carter, who introduced her to high-fashion designers and helped curate her most iconic looks.
At the 2018 Grammy Awards, Cardi stunned in a custom Ashi Studio gown, a voluminous white ensemble that established her as a serious contender in the world of couture. The gown, paired with sparkling accessories and her infectious personality, made headlines, with many dubbing her one of the best-dressed stars of the night.
Moschino and the Red Carpet Reign
One of Cardi B’s most significant fashion partnerships has been with Moschino, led by creative director Jeremy Scott. Known for its playful, avant-garde designs, Moschino’s aesthetic aligns perfectly with Cardi’s bold personality.
At the 2018 Met Gala, Cardi wowed in a custom Moschino creation—a beaded gown with an elaborate headpiece and cape that celebrated the event’s “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination” theme. The look cemented her as a high-fashion force to be reckoned with, and her collaboration with Scott has since flourished.
From glittering gowns to jaw-dropping streetwear-inspired pieces, Moschino has become one of Cardi’s go-to brands for making a statement on and off the red carpet.
2019: Fashion Domination and Grammy Gold
Cardi B’s 2019 Grammy appearance is one for the history books. She arrived in a vintage Thierry Mugler gown from the brand’s Fall 1995 couture collection, resembling a pearl emerging from a clam shell. The dramatic look was a masterclass in theatrical fashion and paid homage to one of the industry’s most iconic designers.
The Mugler gown showcased Cardi’s willingness to embrace risk and her deepening appreciation for fashion as an art form. It also proved her ability to command attention in a room full of A-list stars.
Later that year, Cardi became the face of several high-profile campaigns, including a collaboration with Reebok. She seamlessly transitioned between couture gowns and sporty streetwear, demonstrating her versatility as a style icon.
2020-2022: Global Icon and High-Fashion Collaborator
Despite the pandemic putting a pause on many red-carpet events, Cardi continued to make waves in the fashion world. She used social media to showcase her love for high fashion, often sharing pictures of herself in looks from designers like Balenciaga, Mugler, and Schiaparelli.
In 2021, Cardi made headlines at Paris Fashion Week, where she wore multiple jaw-dropping outfits, including a sculptural gold breastplate by Schiaparelli and an embroidered Mugler ensemble. Her ability to turn any street into her personal runway solidified her status as a global fashion icon.
Moschino Couture and Today’s Reign
Cardi’s partnership with Moschino has continued to thrive, with Jeremy Scott designing custom pieces for some of her biggest performances and appearances. From glittering bodysuits to extravagant gowns, the Moschino aesthetic perfectly complements Cardi’s larger-than-life persona.
In 2023, she stole the show at the Met Gala once again, this time in a Moschino gown featuring intricate floral detailing and dramatic layers. The look was widely praised as one of the evening’s best, proving that Cardi remains at the forefront of red-carpet fashion.
Why Cardi B’s Style Matters
Cardi B’s style evolution is more than just a series of memorable outfits—it’s a reflection of her journey from humble beginnings to global superstardom. Her fearless approach to fashion mirrors her unapologetic personality and her determination to break boundaries in the music and entertainment industries.
She has also become a champion of inclusivity in fashion, frequently working with brands that cater to diverse audiences. From fast fashion collaborations with Fashion Nova to couture partnerships with Moschino, Cardi proves that high style doesn’t have to fit into one mold.
The Future of Cardi B’s Fashion Legacy
With her influence only growing, Cardi B is poised to continue dominating the fashion world. Whether she’s rocking DIY outfits or couture masterpieces, one thing is clear: Cardi’s style is as bold, fearless, and unforgettable as the woman herself.
As she famously said, “I’m living my best life, and I’m going to wear whatever I want doing it.”
