Halsey, born Ashley Nicolette Frangipane, has long been a force to reckon with—not just in the world of music but also in fashion. Known for her fearless creativity and boundary-pushing artistry, Halsey has used her platform to cultivate a distinctive sense of style, one that perfectly mirrors the emotional depth and versatility of her music. From the stage to the red carpet, Halsey’s fashion is bold, eclectic, and undeniably original.
But what truly sets Halsey apart in the world of celebrity fashion is her collaborative spirit. Over the years, she has worked with some of the top designers in the industry to craft custom looks that are as unique and unforgettable as her music. Each collaboration is more than just an outfit for the red carpet—it’s a statement, a work of art, and a reflection of Halsey’s personal journey as both an artist and a woman.
Halsey’s ability to merge high fashion with her own individuality has made her a fashion icon in her own right. She doesn’t simply wear the latest trends; she works closely with designers to push the envelope, creating looks that speak to her vision. Whether it’s a glamorous gown at the Met Gala or an avant-garde ensemble for the MTV Video Music Awards, Halsey’s custom outfits have helped her carve out a space for herself in the fashion world, making her one of the most exciting figures on the red carpet today.
The Art of Collaboration: Building Relationships with Designers
At the heart of Halsey’s red carpet success is her deep connection with designers. Unlike many celebrities who leave the creative process entirely in the hands of stylists, Halsey is actively involved in the design process. Her collaborations with designers are not just about finding something beautiful to wear—they’re about creating a cohesive look that ties into the larger narrative of who Halsey is and what she stands for.
Halsey has often spoken about how important it is for her to feel empowered and authentic in the clothing she wears, particularly when stepping onto the red carpet. She doesn’t just want to look good—she wants her outfit to tell a story. This approach has led her to partner with designers who understand her vision and are willing to experiment with bold ideas.
One of her longest-standing and most fruitful collaborations has been with Prabal Gurung, a designer known for his elegant yet daring creations. Gurung has a knack for blending femininity with edge, making him the perfect match for Halsey’s ever-evolving style. The two first connected in 2018 when Halsey wore one of Gurung’s pieces to a high-profile event, and their partnership has only grown stronger since.
Speaking about their collaboration, Gurung once said, “Halsey is the kind of person who knows exactly what she wants. She’s not afraid to take risks, and that’s what makes working with her so exciting. When we’re designing something for her, it’s a conversation—it’s about finding that balance between fashion and her personal identity.”
Met Gala Magic: When Halsey Stuns in Custom Couture
Few events in the fashion calendar are as prestigious—or as creative—as the Met Gala. With its annual theme guiding the sartorial choices of attendees, the Met Gala is a place where fashion meets art, and Halsey has never been one to disappoint. Her Met Gala appearances have been some of her most memorable moments, thanks to her daring collaborations with designers who understand the significance of the event.
At the 2019 Met Gala, themed “Camp: Notes on Fashion,” Halsey turned heads in a dramatic red two-piece ensemble designed by Prabal Gurung. The look was a modern, warrior-inspired take on femininity, with Halsey donning a structured bustier and flowing red train, channeling strength and power. The outfit, paired with gold accessories and bold makeup, stood out amidst a sea of elaborate costumes, but it also felt true to Halsey’s aesthetic—unapologetically bold and fiercely individual.
Gurung, known for embracing inclusivity and activism in his designs, was the perfect partner for Halsey at the Met Gala, as the singer herself is deeply engaged in social causes, including LGBTQ+ rights and racial justice. Together, they created a look that not only fit the theme of the night but also reflected Halsey’s ethos as both an artist and an activist.
The collaboration between Halsey and Gurung at the Met Gala exemplifies the magic that happens when a designer and artist are in sync. It’s not just about following a theme or wearing a beautiful dress—it’s about creating a look that resonates on a deeper level, making a statement that goes beyond the fabric.
Playing with Gender Norms: Halsey’s Androgynous Style
One of the reasons Halsey’s fashion resonates with so many is her willingness to challenge traditional gender norms in her style choices. While she can certainly rock a glamorous gown, Halsey is just as comfortable in androgynous looks that blur the lines between masculine and feminine. This fluidity has become a hallmark of her style and a reflection of her belief in self-expression beyond societal expectations.
A prime example of this came in 2019, when Halsey attended the Amfar Gala in a custom Givenchy suit. The tailored black tuxedo, paired with a low-cut top and bold accessories, exuded a sense of power and confidence. It was a refreshing departure from the more expected red carpet gowns, and it showcased Halsey’s ability to adapt and reimagine traditional fashion tropes.
Her partnership with Givenchy on this look was a testament to her growing influence in the fashion world. Givenchy, a brand known for its luxurious and elegant designs, is not typically associated with gender-fluid fashion, but Halsey’s collaboration with the brand added a new dimension to its image. Together, they created a look that was both timeless and avant-garde, proving that formalwear doesn’t have to be confined to one gender.
Halsey’s embrace of androgyny in her red carpet looks speaks to her larger message of inclusivity and authenticity. She has always been vocal about rejecting rigid definitions of gender and beauty, and her fashion choices reflect that philosophy. By working with designers who are willing to explore these themes, Halsey continues to push boundaries and inspire fans to embrace their own unique identities.
The Power of Performance: Halsey’s Stage Looks
While Halsey’s red carpet outfits are undoubtedly show-stoppers, her fashion extends beyond glamorous galas and awards shows. As a performer, Halsey has mastered the art of stage style—outfits that are not only visually striking but also functional for high-energy performances. Her collaborations with designers for tour and music video costumes are just as important to her overall fashion narrative as her red carpet looks.
For her 2018 Hopeless Fountain Kingdom tour, Halsey teamed up with fashion powerhouse Jeremy Scott to create a series of custom looks that embodied the ethereal, otherworldly themes of the album. Scott, known for his playful, bold designs as the creative director of Moschino, helped Halsey craft looks that combined high fashion with performance-ready practicality.
One standout piece from the tour was a shimmering, futuristic bodysuit that allowed Halsey to move freely on stage while still making a powerful visual impact. The look, paired with thigh-high boots and dramatic makeup, was a perfect reflection of the world Halsey created with her album—one where love, heartbreak, and empowerment collided in a beautifully theatrical way.
Working with Scott on her tour wardrobe allowed Halsey to merge fashion and performance in a way that felt seamless. The custom designs were not just about looking good—they were about enhancing the story she was telling through her music and creating a visual experience for her fans.
A Fashion Icon in the Making
As Halsey’s career continues to evolve, so too does her fashion. Her collaborations with designers have allowed her to explore different facets of her identity, using clothing as a medium for self-expression. Whether she’s wearing a custom gown at the Met Gala, donning a tailored tuxedo on the red carpet, or rocking a futuristic bodysuit on stage, Halsey’s style is always intentional, thoughtful, and bold.
What makes Halsey such a compelling figure in the world of fashion is her ability to merge high fashion with personal authenticity. She doesn’t wear clothes to fit in or to please others—she wears them to express herself, to challenge norms, and to make a statement. Her partnerships with designers are a reflection of that philosophy, as she consistently works with those who understand her vision and are willing to push boundaries alongside her.
In an industry where trends come and go, Halsey’s commitment to individuality and her fearless approach to fashion ensure that she will remain a style icon for years to come. Her ability to seamlessly blend music, art, and fashion into a cohesive narrative sets her apart from other celebrities, and her collaborations with designers are a key part of that success.
From the runway to the red carpet, Halsey’s unique designer collaborations have cemented her place as one of the most exciting and influential figures in fashion today. With each new event, she continues to surprise and inspire, proving that true style is about more than just clothes—it’s about telling a story.