Mary J. Blige is showing some “Real Love” to music video director Hype Williams at the 2023 CFDA Fashion Awards.
The singer turned heads on the red carpet in a custom crystal-encrusted mesh dress from designer Christian Siriano. Blige’s dress, which she wore over a black bodysuit, featured silver detailing that wrapped around her like intricate vines. She completed her ensemble with dazzling earrings and an oversized sparkly ring from Jacob and Co.
As an added touch, Blige also sported an emerald green manicure, which gave her shimmering ensemble a pop of color. Meanwhile, the “Still Believe in Love” singer kept her hairstyle simple by wearing her blonde locks in an elegant bun at the back of her neck.
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Blige was in attendance at this year’s ceremony to introduce a hip-hop tribute film created by Williams at the annual awards, held by the Council of Fashion Designers of America in New York City on Monday.
It’s fitting that Blige was on hand to introduce Williams’ film, as the pair’s working relationship can be traced back to 1995. That year, Blige had a cameo in Williams’ iconic video for the remix of The Notorious B.I.G’s “One More Chance.” The singer appeared in the star-studded video, along with icons like Heavy D, Queen Latifah, Aaliyah and Spike Lee.
Williams has worked with the biggest names in hip-hop, directing videos for artists like 2Pac, Dr. Dre, Puff Daddy and Missy Elliott.
The “I’m Goin’ Down” singer is music royalty herself, spearheading a new genre that later became known as hip-hop soul. For her PEOPLE cover story earlier this year, Blige reflected on her career and journey to self-confidence.
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“I feel like I’m getting the credit that I deserve now, but for a while, people were just passing by me,” Blige said. “I don’t blame anyone. I was passing by myself.”
Now, Blige says she starts each morning by looking in the mirror and saying, “Good morning, gorgeous” — an affirmation that inspired the title for her most recent album.
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Blige appeared at the CFDA Fashion Awards alongside presenters Demi Moore, Ayo Edebiri and Anne Hathaway, who also hosted the awards. The night’s awardees included Serena Williams, Gwyneth Paltrow and Vera Wang.
