Issa Rae's Style Continues to Get Brighter and Bolder

Issa Rae has come a long way—both professionally and sartorially—since her web series, Awkward Black Girl, went viral in 2011. Back then, her style consisted primarily of leather jackets, combat boots, and bright sweaters, or fit-and-flare dresses in vibrant prints. And though it wasn’t awkward in the least, it also didn’t really draw attention either (nothing out of the norm for a relatively recent college grad making her way in Tinseltown). But after being catapulted into the limelight with her television show, Insecure, and numerous films (particularly The Photograph, if only because of the eye-catching coats that she wears), she’s become a bona fide one-to-watch at fashion presentations, movie premieres, talk shows, and other glitzy events.

From single-colored, sleek dresses to suits that follow the same color palette to frocks with ebullient patterns, Rae’s style evolution from her days as a YouTuber to taking top billing on a movie marquee is ascendant. And some of the credit for her glow-up should go to stylist and designer Jason Rembert. For three years, he’s worked with Rae, putting her in outfits that, though glamorous, don’t detract from her easygoing personality.

“I create looks to be elevated, comfortable, while still being true to who she is,” Rembert tells BAZAAR.com. He also elaborates on how Rae prefers silhouettes that are “complementary to her body” often in “yellow and jewel tones” or “African prints.”

Some of their noteworthy collaborations include a shimmering Prabal Gurung gown at the 75th Golden Globe Awards; a bright yellow dress with cutouts at the hip by Dion Lee; another yellow dress at the 50th NAACP Image Awards, this one Grecian and by Oscar de La Renta; and a neon-green suit by Sergio Hudson at the 2018 CFDA Fashion Awards. “We just have fun, while creating looks that she is comfortable with,” Rembert continues. “Color is always a favorite of hers, and she pulls it off well, making it a part of our DNA.”

Indeed, Rae’s fashion statements are as bright and bubbly as the personality she coveys on-screen and off. And we’re definitely looking forward to seeing—and documenting (see below)—how her style progresses as her star continues to shine.