Beyoncé’s Emmy-Winning Costumes Show Why She’s a True Fashion Icon

There’s something powerful about commanding a room without saying a word—a feat Beyoncé has mastered through decades of iconic fashion moments. It’s about taking up space and drawing attention with finesse. Whether referencing a classic rom-com moment or a public appearance, some looks never fade. Their impact seeps into the social consciousness, active wardrobe, and stage for generations to remember.

Beyoncé is often revered for her performance quality, delivering a carefully crafted experience for fans to enjoy. She and the brand she has built value intense choreography, powerful vocals, and enchanting visuals. Beyond these factors, though, is Beyoncé’s commitment to wardrobe, which has spanned decades. Over the years, from being styled by her mother, Tina Knowles, to Ty Hunter, and most recently Zerina Akers, Beyoncé has had trusted individuals help bring iconic looks to audiences. Her confidence inspires supporters, collaborators, and other artists.

Related articles: Why LOEWE Is Fashion’s Most Influential Brand

Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour alone inspired a variety of shimmery cowboy hats, boots, and bodysuits from fans and celebrity guests. The phenomenon was similar to her Renaissance Tour, in which the star encouraged fans to wear their best disco ball-inspired looks to the show. As Beyoncé glistened under the stage lights, tens of thousands of supporters twinkled back with her.

With political and cultural statements infused into her performance wardrobe, Beyoncé takes every opportunity to wear her truth. Her recent emphasis on country culture in both her music and fashion has faced racialized backlash. Many critics of Beyoncé and African American cowboy culture remain vehemently opposed to seeing Black culture and artistry as part of American culture. Beyoncé, however, has always been vocal about her country background playing a large role in her identity.

In her 2016 CFDA Fashion Icon speech, the artist shared: “When [we] were starting out in Destiny's Child, high-end labels didn’t want to dress four Black, country, curvy girls… and we couldn’t afford designer dresses and couture.” Beyoncé’s wardrobe has always aligned with her mission, her lyrics, and her identity.

Related articles: Beyoncé Redefines Music Genre with "Cowboy Carter"

Beyoncé’s concerts are a celebration of the countless hours, revisions, and sketches that go into crafting a look or an entire collection. She has also owned her own fashion brands, House of Deréon and Ivy Park. Beyoncé’s wardrobe extends into her red carpet, award show, and music video moments.

Nicky Brager, general manager and former editor-in-chief of Marie Claire, once stated: “Whatever Beyoncé wears, the world takes notice. She'll put designers and trends on the map.” Beyond luxury designer brands, Beyoncé has worn captivating looks from rising, women-led labels. Malone Souliers, Lindsey James Show Designs, and Partlow are just some of the brands she has recently relied on for custom, Out West-chic pieces. With the rise of apparel duping and fast fashion, independent artists benefit greatly from increased visibility at large concerts or appearances. As her fashion legacy grows, Beyoncé seeks to bring others with her.

In honor of her Emmy win for Outstanding Costumes for her Beyoncé Bowl Netflix special this past month, let’s revisit Beyoncé’s legendary fashion moments over the years. Her 2003 VMA dress was sleek and magical. With slight differences in the cuts between Destiny’s Child’s Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams, each look felt unique yet cohesive. Beyoncé’s off-the-shoulder bodice, large gold hoops, and smoky eye complemented the all-black, rhinestoned look. Girl groups today continue to play with group fashion, perfecting individuality within a collective.

Related articles: Beyoncé Takes the Stage for the 'Cowboy Carter' Tour

Again in 2003, Beyoncé delivered her first solo performances wearing an iconic lime green and purple-fuchsia Versace mini dress. The dress’s plunging neckline and sheer skirt enhanced her fierce stage presence and her iconic “Crazy in Love” choreography. Eighteen years later, Zendaya honored Beyoncé’s look at the BET Awards. Despite the dress’s original length, the look was instantly recognized by fans—and mothers. Tina Knowles revealed under Zendaya’s Instagram post that she was the one who cut the piece short. The callback nodded to early 2000s glam and reinforced Beyoncé’s influence across generations of performers.

During a 15-minute performance in honor of receiving the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the 2014 VMAs, Beyoncé wore an iconic bejeweled bodysuit by Ford. Though not the first time a Beyoncé bodysuit had been adored (now put your hands up!), the look sent waves through the fandom. The bodysuit left a lasting influence on elevated bodysuit costumes for Beyoncé and other performers alike.

At the 2017 Grammys, Beyoncé wore a decked-out gold costume. Often coined as Beyoncé’s “mother goddess” look, the Peter Dundas creation featured an extravagant spiked headpiece with a halo-like ring, a thick-layered choker, and a heavily embellished dress with a plunging neckline. Cardi B’s Met Gala outfit largely resembled the ethereal look, with similar pieces, shapes, and embroidery details.

Related articles: Kelly Rowland: Stepping Out of Beyoncé's Shadow

For a 2018 performance that positioned Beyoncé as the first Black woman to headline Coachella, she wore one of her most iconic costumes: a custom yellow Balmain cropped hoodie, ripped denim shorts, and shimmering fringe boots. The hoodie’s bedazzling paid homage to Black Greek organizations, showcasing another unique way to uplift Black culture.

In 2023, Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour brought fans approximately 150 new Queen B costumes. From crystallized Loewe handprint bodysuits to a rose-pink feathered Tamara Ralph gown, Beyoncé’s looks offered a wide variety of couture. However, the most iconic palette from the tour aligned with her request for silver and chrome in honor of Virgo season. The request proved highly successful among celebrities and fans, encouraging everyone to glisten boldly and confidently.

Most recently, Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour introduced looks that will continue to spark conversations for years to come. A myriad of bedazzled chaps, knee-high boots, and cowboy hats graced the stage. One of the most memorable ensembles, worn during her final performance, was a fringed glove, bodysuit, and boot set by Elie Saab that incorporated the colors of the American flag. Beyoncé’s fashion moments are more than costumes—they’re statements of power, identity, and artistry. In a world where what we wear speaks volumes, she reminds us that style can directly and powerfully shape legacy.

by Morgan Bryant