By Freya Rogers
Elizabeth Grant, infamously known as Lana Del Rey, is a name that resonates deeply with millennials and Gen-Zers, a musical icon whose influence transcends generations. I vividly recall the transformative moment when I first heard the haunting intro of “Born to Die” at the age of twelve, standing on a windswept beach with my siblings, wanting nothing but to go home and play on my DS. My mum let me borrow her headphones to give me something to do, and that is where I found solace in the world of Lana Del Rey, her ethereal voice and the captivating intro of her title album transported me for the first time into a realm of poetry and allure.
My infatuation with Lana extended beyond her music; she infiltrated my style, and the way I wrote, inspiring me to don flower crowns to school and speak in soliloquy’s. I would wear dresses reminiscent of the “Lust for Life” era to birthday parties and school disco’s. Despite facing ridicule for my unconventional attire, I remained undeterred, knowing that Lana would have approved of my sartorial homage to her artistry.
Caroline Grant’s satirical remark, “I swear to God if you become a fashion icon, I’m going to kill myself,” ironically underscores the magnitude of her sister’s success, Lizzy Grant may not have been worthy of icon status, but Lana Del Rey certainly is. Lana’s seamless blend of coquettish glamour and timeless elegance is truly unparalleled. Her merchandise, a treasure trove of bow prints and chic accessories, allows even casual admirers to embrace and embody her.
Caroline Grant’s satirical remark, “I swear to God if you become a fashion icon, I’m going to kill myself,” ironically underscores the magnitude of her sister’s success.
After laying low for a decade or so, Lana has recently reemerged, reimagining her former self; her life as Lizzy Grant peaking through in the way she carries herself and performs on stage. When I saw her perform last July in Hyde Park, she was ethereal, like a fairy queen. Her dress flowed artfully in the wind as she danced on stage and mixed with fans. I couldn’t help but think about the young girl she used to be, and it made me think about who I used to be.
Seeing her headline this year’s Coachella, there was no doubt that Lana would grace the famous Met Gala staircase. Last month, the super bowl of the fashion industry returned, boasting a theme that piqued the curiosity of fashion aficionados worldwide: “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion.” As I waited up until 3am to judge the glamorous event on Vogue in my boyfriend’s old T-shirt, I started to grow concerned that Lana would not show up at all – and if she did, I feared she may disappoint; after not having been blown away by the rest of the guest list.
However, those fears were swiftly allayed when Lana graced the event in a custom Alexander McQueen ensemble that exuded ethereal beauty and enchantment. Adorned in a dress that seemed plucked from the depths of an enchanted wood. Lana channeled her rendition of “Once Upon a Dream”, a dark fairytale; embodying Snow White, Aurora, and Maleficent all at once. Her presence on the famed Met Gala staircase was a sight to behold.
As I waited up until 3am to judge the glamorous event on Vogue in my boyfriend’s old T-shirt, I started to grow concerned that Lana would not show up at all
As other celebrities faltered in their interpretations of the gala’s theme, Lana emerged as a vision of Mother Nature herself, showcasing her innate ability to capture the imagination and defy conventional fashion norms. Her ethereal presence served as a poignant reminder of her transformative power in the realm of style and creativity.
In a world brimming with fleeting trends and superficial allure, Lana Del Rey stands as a beacon of timeless elegance and grace, a muse whose influence transcends fashion and resonates deeply with all who are captivated by her artistry.
Illustration Credit: Hayleigh McLean