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Chic singer-songwriter Lauryn Hill, a film actress and former member of the Fugees turned solo artist, became famous for her signature style, as well as her songs in the 1990s. When her solo album "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill" was nominated for 10 Grammy Awards in the same year, winning five, she'd reached style icon status. Although most typical '90s fashion is in the vintage category today, Lauryn's unique combination of bold glamour with an earthy edge remains current.
Style the Unexpected
What made Lauryn Hill's look so coveted in her heyday was the masterful mixture of daring, diverse styles in a single outfit. Work with different patterns that aren't usually paired together, like a tribal print or beaded Native American design on one garment with plain stripes on another. Mix textures, such as silk or cashmere with leather, or put your most feminine accessories with menswear-inspired pieces. Most of all, add a little hip-hop into your most glam garments, like a big, chunky jacket over a little black dress.
Red Carpet Chic
Hill's most formal looks at awards ceremonies and events in the '90s and today are made up of many long, loose garments. Get out your maxi dresses and skirts in muted, neutral colors, and start layering. Put breezy button-down tops or even short dresses over floor-length skirts, or go for a chic kimono jacket. Hill's other statement wear includes bold, brightly colored jackets, leopard trench coats, patterned leather blazers and military jackets. For jewelry, opt for anything oversized in gold.
Casually Creative
Hill's everyday looks are no less glam than what she chooses to wear on stage and screen. Keeping your color palette neutral, wear the wide-legged trouser trend with high heels and a sleeveless shirt or halter top. Limit your jewelry to bangles, necklaces and oversized hoop earrings in gold tones. You can also rock the menswear look with a button-down blouse, but be sure to add some softer accessories, such as a patterned headscarf or thick, knitted skull cap.
Bold Beauty
There's no need for neutrals when it comes to Lauryn Hill-inspired cosmetics choices. Make your own fine features pop with a wine, dark berry or brown-colored lipstick, and purple smoky eyes with lots of lashes. Color only the apples of your cheeks with a deep blush shade. For hair, you've got your pick of several signature styles, including long braids, cropped coils, a short Afro and full, bouncy dreadlocks that fall just to the shoulders.
