Women's Lifestyle November 9, 2025 0 Comments

How Chappell Roan’s Cyndi Lauper-Inspired Look Is Shaking Up the Fashion World Faster Than Any Workout Routine You’ve Tried

Remember when Cyndi Lauper exploded onto our screens in ’86, throwing glittering headdresses and those iconic wild curls our way, all while belting out “True Colors”? That anthem didn’t just stick around as a catchy tune—it became a beacon of love, acceptance, and resilience for the queer community. Fast forward, and here’s this incredible moment where Chappell Roan, once a 14-year-old finding her voice in Missouri, steps up at LA’s Peacock Theater to honor Lauper’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction. But here’s the kicker—it’s not just the music that grabbed the spotlight; it’s Roan’s jaw-dropping, fashion-forward homage that reimagines that nostalgic video into something utterly modern and magnetic. Ever wonder how you translate a classic into a wearable statement that stops the room? Buckle up—this story’s got style, heart, and a sprinkle of rebellion. LEARN MORE

2 min read

In 1986, Cyndi Lauper released a music video full of sparkling headdresses, big hair, chunky pearls, and trippy colorful visuals. The song, “True Colors,” would go on to become a renowned symbol of love and acceptance and an anthem for the queer community, lending its name to the artist’s non-profit organization in 2008 and finding its way to a presidential ceremony in 2022. And somewhere between there, a 14-year-old Chappell Roan stepped on stage in her Missouri hometown and found her voice through its lyrics.

Last night, Roan took the (slightly larger) stage at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater to introduce Lauper, who was officially inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. In her speech, she paid a sweet tribute to the star, noting her global influence not only on the music industry but on people. But it was with her fashion that she gave the audience chills—wearing an elaborate ensemble that brought Lauper’s classic hit to the modern day.

2025 rock & roll hall of fame induction ceremony arrivals

Frazer Harrison//Getty Images

Embodying different scenes from the music video all at once, Roan and her stylist Genesis Webb merged two of Lauper’s looks into one for a comprehensive and unmistakably Chappell-ified look. The focal point, a massive knee-length skirt with exaggerated hips and a high waist, was constructed from strips of newspaper, mimicking a ruffled or gathered effect through collage. It was designed by E.I.N.III’s Efrain Nava after Lauper’s own skirt. Pulling in another reference, designer Manny Robertson crafted a custom headdress just like the one from the music video.

ERIC THAYER//Getty Images

Jeff Kravitz//Getty Images

Roan paired the recognizable references with a crystallized bustier top, connected to a chunky necklace and layered with strands of pearls and beads. For makeup, she leaned into the yellows, pinks, and blues from the “True Colors” cover art, and on her feet, she slipped into metallic peep-toe Louboutins. To top it all off, the master of detail had her nails printed with newspaper to match.