Last weekend, Beyonce changed the game once more with the premiere of her new visual album, Lemonade, both an exorcism of her marital problems and a triumphant celebration of black women. The short film, that follows each track of Queen B's new album, alongside some amazing poetry by writer Warsan Shire, included some amazing fashion moments that added a lot to to the poetical images that complemented the music. From exuberant gowns, to flowery suits, urban outfits and victorian style dresses, each segment had her own feel and setting.
The film is heavy on African and Southern imagery, especially in Southern Gothic aesthetic. The story fluctuates between past and present, in particular when it transcends its more personal themes and centres around race and gender issues. The concept of "Black Girl Magic" is predominant throughout the short movie, and some of its champions, like Serena Williams, Zendaya, Quvenzhané Wallis, Amandla Stenberg and Winnie Harlow appear in it.
Here is a collection of the best looks from Lemonade, which are also some of the most aesthetically pleasing images i've contemplated in the last few months:
One of the most talked-about moments comes early in the film, during the song Hold Up. Bey, baseball bat in hand, gloriously smashes cars, shop windows and everything that gets in her way, all while wearing an amazing Roberto Cavalli yellow dress.
I find the next images the most evoking of the whole piece. A group of black women of all ages sporting romantic looks, all lace and pastel tones. The details are also outstanding, with fans, hats, gloves and shoes taking centre stage.
Now we go back to color again, to present day, and the clothes take a more modern turn, but without losing its vintage vibe. It makes it seem as if the women we've seen before, the grandmothers and great-grandmothers have travelled in time, now wearing beautiful colors and patterns.
Finally, one of my favorite looks from Queen B herself. This gorgeous dress she wears various times during the film. The shape of it reminds me of both Marie Antoniette and Velazquez's "Las Meninas", but with an African twist. The pattern is a traditional African one, with earthy colors. The hairstyle and makeup also contribute to making this one memorable outfit that I hope Beyonce will get back to in the future.
