gucci fendi prada lady gaga | Lady Gaga fashion 2009

Lady Gaga's impact on music and popular culture is undeniable, but her influence extends far beyond her vocal prowess. From the moment she burst onto the scene, Gaga established herself as a fashion icon, a performance artist who used clothing as a powerful form of expression. Examining her early work, particularly the unreleased track often referred to as "Fashion" (and sometimes "Fabulous"), provides a fascinating glimpse into the nascent stages of this fashion-forward persona. This article will delve into the lyrical content and potential meanings of "Fashion," contextualizing it within the broader scope of Lady Gaga's 2009 aesthetic and its significance in shaping her artistic identity. We will explore the song's themes of consumerism, body image, and the constructed nature of celebrity, all filtered through the lens of high fashion brands like Gucci, Fendi, and Prada, and the influence of designers like Vivienne Westwood.

The Lyrics: A Glimpse into a Fashion-Obsessed Mind

The lyrics of "Fashion," while simple, are remarkably evocative. They paint a picture of a woman utterly consumed by the world of high fashion, obsessed with thinness, and seemingly willing to be molded and manipulated by the industry. Let's break down the key lines:

* "Oh oh, la la la / I am, I'm too fabulous / I'm so, fierce that it's so nuts": This opening establishes a tone of self-assuredness and extravagance. The repetition and playful "la la la" create a catchy, almost childlike quality, contrasting with the more serious themes that follow. The declaration of being "too fabulous" and "fierce that it's so nuts" suggests an awareness of the performative nature of fashion and the expectation to project an image of power and confidence.

* "I live, to be model thin / Dress me, I'm your mannequin": These lines reveal a darker undercurrent. The phrase "I live, to be model thin" speaks to the immense pressure placed on women (and particularly those in the entertainment industry) to conform to unrealistic beauty standards. The subsequent line, "Dress me, I'm your mannequin," suggests a willingness to relinquish control, to become a blank canvas upon which designers and stylists can project their vision. This highlights the objectification inherent in the fashion industry and the potential for individuals to lose their sense of self in pursuit of an ideal.

* "J'adore Vivienne habillez moi, / Gucci, Fendi,...": This line explicitly references the iconic British designer Vivienne Westwood, known for her punk-inspired and often subversive designs. The phrase "J'adore Vivienne habillez moi" (I adore Vivienne, dress me) underscores the artist's admiration for Westwood's rebellious spirit and her desire to be clothed in her creations. The subsequent mention of Gucci and Fendi, presumably followed by other luxury brands in the full version of the song, further emphasizes the importance of designer labels in constructing the desired image. These brands represent not only quality and craftsmanship but also status, exclusivity, and membership in a certain elite.

Lady Gaga Fashion 2009: A Year of Bold Statements and Emerging Identity

To understand the significance of "Fashion," we must contextualize it within Lady Gaga's fashion choices in 2009. This year marked a pivotal point in her career, with the release of her debut album, *The Fame*, and the subsequent explosion of her popularity. Her fashion during this period was characterized by:

* Avant-Garde Silhouettes: Gaga consistently pushed the boundaries of conventional fashion, experimenting with unusual shapes, exaggerated proportions, and architectural designs. Think of the infamous "living dress" made of Kermit the Frog dolls or the numerous shoulder-padded creations that defined her early style.

* Bold Colors and Patterns: Gaga embraced vibrant hues and eye-catching patterns, often opting for clashing combinations that defied traditional fashion rules. This boldness reflected her rebellious spirit and her refusal to conform to expectations.

* Theatrical Makeup and Hair: Gaga's makeup and hair were as integral to her overall look as her clothing. She frequently sported dramatic eye makeup, sculpted hairstyles, and elaborate headpieces, transforming herself into a living work of art.

* DIY Aesthetics: While she often wore designer pieces, Gaga also incorporated elements of DIY and found objects into her outfits, creating a unique and often deliberately provocative aesthetic. This demonstrated her ability to blend high fashion with street style, blurring the lines between art and commerce.

* The Influence of Leigh Bowery: Gaga has repeatedly cited performance artist Leigh Bowery as a major influence on her style. Bowery was known for his outrageous costumes, grotesque makeup, and gender-bending performances, all of which resonated with Gaga's desire to challenge societal norms and redefine beauty.

In 2009, Lady Gaga's fashion was not just about wearing clothes; it was a performance in itself. She used her appearance to shock, provoke, and inspire, transforming herself into a living embodiment of her artistic vision.

"Fashion" as a Lady Gaga Fashion Song: Exploring Themes of Consumerism and Identity

The lyrics of "Fashion" reflect several key themes that were prevalent in Lady Gaga's work during this period: