Ariana Grande has recently opened up about her signature fashion choice in 2018: oversized hoodies paired with high boots. In a recent interview with Vogue for their "Life in Looks" series, the singer, now 32, reflected on her style during that period, describing it as a "very strange time" in her life.
The "Wicked" star explained that her preference for oversized clothing was driven by a need to "hide away" and feel "really cozy" while processing a lot emotionally. Grande admitted that she "did not have the mental energy to consider clothing" at the time, making sweatshirts the easiest option. Despite opting for comfort, she paired the hoodies with "c***y" boots, which she said still made her feel good.
The years 2017 and 2018 were particularly challenging for Grande. In May 2017, a bombing at her concert in Manchester, England, killed 22 people and injured over 500. Grande has been open about suffering from anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following the tragedy. In a November 2018 letter to her fans, she expressed that the bombing would leave her "speechless and filled with questions for the rest of my life".
Adding to her personal struggles, Grande's ex-boyfriend, Mac Miller, passed away in September 2018 due to an accidental overdose. She described the grief she felt over his death as "all-consuming" in a 2019 Vogue cover story. Furthermore, she ended her engagement with Pete Davidson in October 2018.
Grande's fashion choices resonated with many, leading to a surge in searches for oversized hoodies in 2018. According to Billboard, the fashion search website Lyst reported a 130% increase in searches for the item, with Grande topping the list of musicians who had the biggest impact on fashion that year. While some might have expected her signature ponytail to be the driving force, it was her comfortable yet chic hoodie and boots combination that captured the public's attention.
Grande's willingness to discuss her personal struggles and how they influenced her fashion choices has been praised by fans and media outlets alike. By sharing her story, she has shed light on the connection between mental health and personal style, demonstrating how clothing can be a source of comfort and self-expression during difficult times.
