Rag Report: `80s hip-hop

Rag Report dives under the covers of fashion publications to rant or rave about all the glossy goodness. 

 V magazine goes `80s

This month, Lily Donaldson and Liya Kebede don hip, funky threads in a 80’s inspired seven-page editorial for V magazine. Dressed in wild animal print and chunky gold accessories, these girls embody the times of Salt-N-Pepa. 

In the first spread, Kebede and Donaldson are staring at the readers. Their poses are relaxed yet commanding. The juxtaposition of each model’s outfit is amazing. From the different hair color to the position of their Nasir Mazhar sunglasses, each model stands out but also complements one another.

This photo of Kebede is mesmerizing. Her body pose is reminiscent of 80’s hip-hop. Even though her gaze is away from the camera, Kebede still engages the readers. Immediately, we notice the multitude of bangles and rings on each finger. Stylist Clare Richardson paired Adidas high tops with KLS (Kimora Lee Simmons) sequin pants under Bebe denim shorts and a Karl Lagerfeld sleeveless vest. The overall look is loud and flashy, but it works effectively with the shoot’s theme.

Donaldson is a natural in front of the camera. Her editorial shots never disappoint. In her solo shot, she looks and poses amazingly. Styled in a Burberry Prorsum coat, Ashish pants and customized Reeboks, the outfit is definitely an attention-seeker. She effortlessly shows off the clothes while maintaining a beautiful facial expression. 

Overall, the editorial is fun and entertaining. Both models manage to convey the “grandmistresses” of 80’s hip-hop.

- by Ivie Igbeare