Billie Eilish has consistently demonstrated her ability to transform through fashion, making bold statements that resonate deeply with audiences. At the 2023 Met Gala, dedicated to the memory of Karl Lagerfeld, Eilish made a striking appearance in a creation by Simone Rocha. This ensemble featured intricate ribbons and black beads, crafted from repurposed lace and tulle sourced from the designer's London studio. Her look embodied an ethereal yet commanding presence, reminiscent of a nocturnal empress. This image was not merely about aesthetics but represented a profound exploration of self-identity. In a candid hotel-room interview with Vogue, Eilish expressed her journey of reconciling her masculinity with her femininity, emphasizing how she had to embrace both sides of herself.
Eilish’s reflections on beauty and identity extend beyond fleeting moments of style. In this month’s British Vogue cover story, she shared heartfelt insights with Nicki Minaj, revealing her ongoing struggle to see herself as beautiful. This introspection underscores her evolving relationship with femininity and the broader challenges women face in society. While she opted out of the 2024 Met Gala to focus on her groundbreaking third album, "Hit Me Hard and Soft," anticipation for her return remains high. When she graces the red carpet again, it will undoubtedly mark another departure from her usual casual attire—backward caps, basketball jerseys, and graphic tees—showcasing her ever-changing connection to fashion.
Fashion serves as more than just a tool for expression for Billie Eilish; it is a medium through which she communicates her growth and resilience. Her ability to redefine herself repeatedly at such a young age highlights her courage and authenticity. Each new look or statement reflects her unwavering commitment to embracing all facets of who she is. As fans eagerly await her next move, one thing is certain: Billie continues to inspire countless individuals worldwide by exemplifying the power of self-acceptance and breaking societal norms.
In this edition, we delve into the vibrant world of contemporary art, personal spiritual journeys, and the dynamic realm of fashion. Jasleen Kaur, the Turner Prize winner, invites us into her creative sanctuary at Somerset House, where she discusses her upcoming public commission and the diverse themes influencing her work. Meanwhile, Lamorna Ash shares a poignant essay on her unexpected conversion to Christianity, offering insight into a younger generation's quest for connection through faith. Additionally, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York prepares to unveil an exhibition celebrating Black style, featuring contributions from renowned figures such as Tyler Mitchell and Law Roach.
Jasleen Kaur’s artistic journey has captivated audiences globally. As she finalizes her first permanent public installation in Thamesmead, Kaur reflects on the intricate interplay between family, identity, memory, solidarity, and connection within her creations. Her groundbreaking multisensory piece, "Alter Altar," showcased at Tate Britain, exemplifies her innovative approach by combining a Ford Escort adorned with a colossal doily, worship bells, and a consecrated bottle of Irn-Bru. This thought-provoking installation highlights Kaur's ability to merge the tangible with the intangible, solidifying her reputation as a leading figure in the arts community.
Lamorna Ash embarks on a deeply personal exploration of faith, recounting her transformational experience researching young converts to Christianity. Initially approached as an academic endeavor, Ash’s investigation evolved into a profound life-changing event. Her narrative provides a compelling perspective on how modern individuals seek genuine connections through religious practices, challenging preconceived notions about spirituality in today's world.
The fashion scene is set to ignite with excitement as the Metropolitan Museum of Art presents "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style." Focused on the iconic Black dandy, this exhibition showcases the extraordinary vision of photographer Tyler Mitchell and editor Law Roach. Featuring a stellar lineup including Ayo Edebiri, Spike Lee, Grace Wales Bonner, and Dapper Dan, the display reinterprets traditional tailoring with breathtaking designs. This collection serves as both an inspiration for spring wardrobes and a celebration of cultural expression through fashion.
This month's issue also highlights Billie Eilish's stylish ensemble, incorporating pieces from Martine Rose, A Bathing Ape, Willy Chavarria, and ERL at Dover Street Market London, further emphasizing the intersection of art and fashion in contemporary culture.
Since her breakout performance at the age of 14 with "Ocean Eyes," Billie Eilish has reshaped the landscape of contemporary pop music. Her unique style and deeply personal lyrics have resonated across generations, making her one of the most influential artists of her time. As she graces British Vogue's cover for a second time in May 2025, staff members share their favorite tracks from her repertoire, reflecting on how these songs have shaped their lives and careers.
A Deep Dive into Billie Eilish's Musical Influence
In the enchanting autumn of her career beginnings, when Billie Eilish first introduced "Ocean Eyes" to the world, it marked more than just a debut—it was the birth of an era. Ranyechi Udemezue recalls being transported back to her high school days, where this song became the anthem of friendship and discovery. Meanwhile, Jamie Spence remembers the power move of hearing "Guess" after a night out, sparking conversations that dominated a Vogue photoshoot the next day. For Louisa Parker Bowles, unity within her family is embodied by "What Was I Made For?" while Charlotte Rutter finds empowerment in "L'amour De Ma Vie." Hannah Daly highlights "Happier Than Ever" as a universal anthem capable of altering moods instantly. Kerry McDermott notes the timeless appeal of "Birds of a Feather," which transcends seasons to become part of cultural history. Funmi Fetto's obsession with "Bury A Friend" stems from its haunting beauty, further amplified when it became the theme for True Detective: Night Country. Zee Waraich found solace in "When the Party’s Over," appreciating the raw emotion conveyed through both lyrics and visuals. Milly Tritton admires the dark humor in "Lovely," suggesting a deeper connection between vulnerability and strength. Rebecca Lee treasures the storytelling depth in "Bellyache," praising its innovative shifts in musical style. Nicole Holcroft-Emmess values the calm vibes of "Everything I Wanted," perfect for creating serene environments during photo shoots. Riann Phillip marvels at the transformative power of "The Greatest" from Eilish's latest album, Hit Me Hard and Soft, celebrating her vocal prowess and profound lyrical insight.
From a journalistic perspective, Billie Eilish's impact extends beyond mere music; she redefines authenticity in artistry. Her ability to evoke such varied responses speaks volumes about her talent and the universal themes she addresses. For readers, her work serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing individuality and expressing emotions openly—a lesson we could all benefit from in today's fast-paced world.