Janelle Monáe came correct to the 2025 Met Gala. Noting its theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” the singer-actress embraced heavy white stitching from head to toe — literally. Celebrity hairstylist and frequent collaborator, Nikki Nelms stitched white yarn into Monáe’s freshly colored and cornrowed hair for the red carpet!
“This year’s theme felt like a celebration of sharpness — not just in tailoring, but in identity. Janelle came into this as the ‘Time Traveling Dandy’, someone who represents past, present, and future Black style. That opened the door for a look that could nod to tradition while also pushing boundaries. We wanted something sculptural, clean, and intentional — like a tailored suit, but in hair form,” says Nelms. To get the full effect Nelms colored Monáe’s hair a deep blue-black color.
She adds, “It started with conversation… [Monáe] carries intention in everything she wears and does, so it was vital that we aligned on the message. The blue/black color from Danger Jones is the perfect shade to convey the overall polish and sophistication of the Harlem Renaissance while incorporating futuristic elements that we’re known for.” Once toned, colored and braided, Nelms finished each braid with pure white yarn, “carefully stitched into the hair to echo the detailing on the suit—adding a subtle but powerful thread of continuity between the fashion and beauty direction.” No detail was missed!
Scroll for the key products Nelms used to get Janelle Monáe’s “Dandy” hair red carpet ready.
Get the Look:
- “We started the look with a color transformation using Danger Jones products. After shampooing with OLAPLEX Nº.4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo, we toned the hair using Danger Jones Gloss Toner with Bonder in 5-1 with a touch of 1-1.
- Next, we moved on to formulating a mix of semi-permanent color. I used Danger Jones Semi-Permanent Hair Color in Dopamine (Black) and Solitude (Blue) and adjusted the ratio based on the result post-toning.
- Following color, we applied an OLAPLEX Nº.8 Moisture Masque for deep hydration. For styling prep, we layered in OLAPLEX Nº.6 Bond Smoother Leave-In Styling Treatment, OLAPLEX Nº.7 Bonding Oil, and OLAPLEX Volumizing Blow Dry Mist on damp hair before smoothing it out with a polished blow dry to prep for braids.
- As we braided, we used OLAPLEX Nº.9 Nourishing Hair Serum and OLAPLEX Nº.7 Bonding Oil to add shine, protect the strands, and maintain softness throughout the look.”
If you recreate Janelle Monáe’s hairstyle for your clients, or for yourself, be sure to tag @readthetease on Instagram or TikTok.
