On Saturday night, Chapel Lawn went all out to induct Cyndi Lauper into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with an elaborate ensemble inspired by Lauper’s 1986 “True Colors” music video.
The 27-year-old “Good Luck Babe” singer paired the eye-catching skirt made from shredded newspaper clippings with a giant chandelier headpiece. Both are near-replicas of what her music idols wore 40 years ago.
Genesis Webb collaborated with designers Efrain Nava, who created the skirt, and Manny Robertson, who created the towering headpiece, to style the custom look.
Webb sourced several pieces for the ensemble from eBay, including a vintage crystal halter top, gold peep-toe sandals, and layers of pearl and crystal jewelry.
“Cindy embodies all the qualities of artists I admire,” Roan said in her inaugural speech. “She is a natural performer, a revolutionary songwriter, an eternal fashion icon, and a passionate advocate and ally.”
“From the beginning, she was who she was: Manic Panic-style hair, fancy fingerless gloves, and incredibly layered, dynamic, one-of-a-kind vocals,” she continued.
Roanne’s makeup by Dee Carrion also pays homage to Lauper’s bold ’80s color palette, with stripes of canary yellow and fuchsia accenting her shimmering eyeshadow.
Jacob Aaron styled her signature auburn curls, and nail artist Rachel Sun created newspaper press-ons to accent the look.
Lorne’s connection to Lauper’s hit songs runs deep. “When I was 14 years old, I sang ‘True Colors’ at a talent show and won my first place!! It was the first time I thought singing might be for me,” the “Pink Pony Club” hitmaker wrote on Instagram.
Lauper “played an important role in my artistry, my fashion, my glamour, my voice, my movement, everything,” Roan continued. “I shed many tears.”
Roper returned the love in her own acceptance speech. “I know I stand on the shoulders of the women who came before me in this industry,” she said. “My shoulders are wide enough to allow the women who come after me to stand on my shoulders.”
In a behind-the-scenes clip showing the creation of the look, Nava expressed how much the skirt design meant to him, writing on Instagram, “I know my mom is crying with joy somewhere far away.” “Cindy meant so much to her growing up, and we’re honoring her here now. After all these years, we’re sharing this joy and excitement together.”
