From Lagos, Nigeria to the world, singer, songwriter, and record producer, Temilade Openiyi widely known as Tems keeps breaking the internet.
Tems, a clear example of the marriage of alt and urban, contributes a sound that is unmistakably distinctive, attracting the ears of millions of fans worldwide including Rihanna, Barack Obama, and Adele. Having officially debuted in 2020, her genre-bending and explosive catalogue currently now has collaborations with Drake, Future, and Beyoncé, a Grammy, a BET, and an Oscar nomination.
Tems’ global appeal transcends music, dominating headlines in the ever-evolving fashion landscape. With objectification being a major concern, especially for female entertainers in the limelight, Tems with a perfectly-proportioned body, plays dress up with her comfort in mind, staying true to herself and gradationally drawing fans into her world.
Her strides in the fashion industry are more than remarkable, attracting the interest of renowned fashion brands, from featuring in campaigns for Tommy Hilfiger and Reebok to going on the covers of GQHype and the Sunday Times Style.
Here is a list of Tems’ most memorable looks, from the infamous Oscar veil to that body-flattering Global Citizen look.
2022 London Tour, KOKO Concert Venue
Tems is dressed in a custom teal matching set with dramatic accordion pleats by Hong Kong designer Robert Wun, based in London, letting her box braids flow naturally while wearing minimal accessories and basic makeup.
Side note: I love this look because it was simple yet playful, dramatic, and elegant.
Global Citizen Concert in Accra, Ghana
Tems wore BRIELLE’s turquoise full lace catsuit featuring cutouts and a silk mini skirt with a crystal clasp, accessorized with a diamond bracelet, silver pumps, and white sunglasses. She opted for a subtle makeup look with a face-framing fringe and long wavy hair.
Side note: I love this look because it exudes an elegant carpe diem feeling.
Tems at the 65th Grammy Weekend
Tems started off her Grammy weekend by attending the famous pre-Grammy Roc Nation Brunch wearing a stunning white dress giving off a simple yet chic vibe.
Tems was breathtaking at the 65th Grammy award show, walking on the red carpet in a Vivienne Westwood gold-corseted dress with a draping from the waist that fell into a sweeping train. It was well detailed with pearls around the neck and one shoulder area.
Side note: This look was the definition of drop-dead gorgeous.
The Controversial Oscars Look
She arrived at her first Oscars looking like a floating cloud, wearing a sculptural white couture gown made by LA-based fashion designer Lessja Verlingieri of Lever Couture. The gown covered her head like a hoody dropping down to her shoulder, around her waist flowing down to a high slide slit and dramatic train. She was styled with perfectly slicked-back updo hair and her signature makeup with minimal accessories.
This look set social media ablaze for several reasons. While many were in awe of the glorified outfit, others feared she might have been a party pooper blocking the view of other guests at the event.
Side note: Personally, I was stunned by this look and how gorgeous she looked eventhough I wouldn’t wish to be the one sitting behind her. But guess what, no one in the room complained, why should I or you?
The Style Star at Met Gala
This year, Tems debuted at fashion’s biggest night and she did not disappoint with her look. She appeared at the 2023 Met Gala wearing a stellar monochrome mermaid corset gown designed by Robert Wun. She accessorized it with an exquisite feathered headpiece matching the top of her strapless gown and elbow-length gloves and her makeup was well-defined.
Written by
Thelma Quainoo is my name, and my pen name is Miss Anowaa. My zodiac sign is Aries, and that alone will tell you I am a bubbly soul. A writer and an aspiring public relations practitioner. Find me on IG as @miss_anowaa. #beyouloveyou