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After unveiling her album Take Me Apart in 2017, Kelela took a hiatus and re-emerged approximately a year ago with a fresh style: a buzz cut. This has given her a fresh platform to experiment with diverse identities, or as she terms it, her “wig era.” However, for her role as the face of COS’s newest fall collection, she opted to forgo any head coverings and appear as her authentic self. This decision perfectly complements the collection’s ethos: relaxed yet refined garments, with just the right amount of texture and sophistication to transcend trends and become staples in your wardrobe.

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Kelela’s endorsement is not easily earned, as she is very particular about what she supports. COS recently hosted a fall collection runway show in New York, with Kelela in the front row, naturally. Before the start of fashion month, ELLE.com had an exclusive conversation with the singer to discuss her return to the public eye, following her own schedule, her loyal fan base, and the powerful expression that fashion can be. Connecting with her fan base and supporters has been heartwarming; it feels like she has resumed from where she left off. During the pandemic hiatus, with little to no social media activity—a norm for many artists in the past—people speculated her absence meant she had stepped away from music. However, she found it fascinating to see her name being mentioned even without her active presence, revealing the depth of her community’s attachment. The realization that people connected with her work even in her absence was fulfilling. Her fans, characterized by their style and kindness, often mirror her values, which she deeply appreciates.
When you performed on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, you seemed to do it authentically on your own terms. Do you ever feel pressured to rise to a certain commerciality? Absolutely, there’s a definite pressure to continuously offer more. Every artist today faces this constant prompt, pushing for growth and grand experiences. However, a proficient creative director, or anyone in charge of artistic vision, must balance expansion with authenticity, ensuring that the essence of their work remains intact while making a significant impact.

You’re diving into fashion month head-first. How have you approached selecting your outfits, using fashion as a means of self-expression? Collaborating with my stylist, Mario Horne, from the first tour to now, we have been evolving a narrative with our black outfits, which have opened up for the summer. It’s about portraying a mood and a story, even if it’s an imagined one. The look holds intrigue, prompting wonder about its context. I relish finding an outfit that aligns with my current state. This era—my “black dress, blonde hair era”— has transitioned into something new. I’m planning to bring back the bayang. It’s thrilling to play with pieces that evoke summer, alongside creating music.

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You’ve been a steadfast supporter of many emerging fashion designers over the years, like Maximilian of his namesake brand, Ferragamo, Telfar, Luar, and Kingsley, whose designs you wore at a recent show. How vital is it for you to champion these designers in your performances and work? It’s extremely important, and it has always felt very natural. When I began creating my music, I met a group of individuals who formed an informal collective. This was more than mere acquaintances—it was a close-knit group of friends who were excelling in their fields. My first major performance was opening for Solange at Webster Hall, where I wore innovative designs by Telfar and Hood By Air. Supporting designers from marginalized communities is crucial to me.

When one of you succeeds, it’s a collective victory, lifting everyone up. Exactly, it’s a collaborative triumph. It feels surreal… Looking around and constantly drawing inspiration from my peers rejuvenates me. The synergy with my fellow creatives fuels my drive. COS is delivering elegant simplicity for everyone. I can fully support that. Many seek chic, well-cut basics that resonate, and COS delivers excellent design. Walking down the Met Gala steps in sparkling Paco Rabanne was a memorable moment, with Raisa Flowers’ striking eye makeup. Another unforgettable ensemble was the Dries pajamas look in September 2018, paired with white Tabis, hair up, and a Y/Project earring. Entering my wig era has introduced new characters into my narrative. There’s a part of me that can’t believe I’m creating imagery akin to what I admired growing up. It feels extraordinary.