Chappell Roan, the 26-year-old singer, recently revealed a near-disaster during her November performance on Saturday Night Live. Moments before taking the stage, her “Pink Pony Club” performance dress ripped down the back. In an interview with Nardwuar, Roan described the frantic repair job by SNL’s seamstress, who sewed her into the sparkling, white-jeweled gown just in time for her appearance.
Roan’s signature style, a blend of drag, theatrical flair, and horror movie influences, often involves elaborate costumes. Nardwuar inquired about her wardrobe maintenance, specifically asking about the post-performance state of her outfits. Roan candidly admitted that the garments likely retain a strong odor and are simply bagged and returned to the rack without much cleaning.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(860×148:862×150)/chappell-roan-vmas-2024-arrivals-tout-091124-2b38ad5ec60f4480a96e1f73d8f8650f.jpg)
Chappell Roan’s red carpet arrival at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards showcased her glamorous style.
For her “Pink Pony Club” performance, Roan complemented the dress with voluminous red curls, bold drag makeup, a jeweled spider brooch, and a matching bracelet, a subtle nod to the recent Halloween holiday. Later, she debuted her country-infused track, “The Giver,” in a contrasting pink and white gingham ensemble complete with a tie, shorts, and cowboy boots, a look mirrored by her band and backup singers.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(749×0:751×2)/chappell-roan-2024-governors-ball-062124-1-83a258914c514040bf7231786d2cecdf.jpg)
Chappell Roan’s performance at the 2024 Governor’s Ball featured a vibrant green Statue of Liberty inspired outfit.
While Roan expressed a desire to reuse outfits, her stylist prioritizes keeping her looks fresh and constantly evolving. Her bold fashion choices have garnered attention, with a notable example being her all-green Statue of Liberty ensemble at the Governors Ball music festival in June. Another standout piece was a blue and green burlesque-inspired creation designed by Project Runway alum Gunnar Deatherage for an SNL promo.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(860×148:862×150)/chappell-roan-vmas-2024-arrivals-tout-091124-2b38ad5ec60f4480a96e1f73d8f8650f.jpg)
Chappell Roan’s fashion choices often incorporate elements of drag, theatrics, and horror.
Deatherage revealed on social media that the burlesque look, complete with dragonfly wings and an elaborate headpiece, was inspired by 1900s burlesque dancers and took 500 hours to construct. Originally intended for a music festival, the costume’s complexity led to a decision to showcase it in a more stationary setting like the SNL promo, ensuring Roan’s performance wouldn’t be hindered. Deatherage emphasized the importance of allowing Roan’s “magic” to shine on stage.
