Jennifer Hudson wasn’t always the glam goddess we see today. After a stint on American Idol, the Oscar and Golden Globe winner’s career and style transformation took shape as she began slaying magazine covers, releasing award-winning albums, and snaring a slot as a spokesperson for Weight Watchers.
Not bad for the girl from Chicago with a “church” voice, huh?
Now armed with big style to match her big talent, the lovely chanteuse is a designer’s dream client. J-Hud flaunts, dazzles and sashays in colorful bold minis, gowns and sexy sheath dresses from Versace, Vera Wang and a slew of other notables. She is a constant staple in the front rows during New York Fashion Week.
Yes, ma’am, our American Idol has arrived!
So in honor of her evolution and as a shout-out to her current role as Shug Avery on Broadway’s revival of The Color Purple, we break down the clothes, beauty and hair with a little help from her personal stylist of five years, Eric Archibald. He has revolutionized Miss Hudson into a bona fide superstar!
CLOTHES
Jenny continues to wow on red carpets, photo shoots and talk show appearances thanks to Archibald. He says, “In the beginning, we built new relationships with designers. This was our trial and error period when it came to fittings. I had to make sure she was comfortable in everything she wore. Currently, she flourishes with confidence since the weight loss, so I’m able to take more chances with wardrobe options. Her style can be described as classic chic, so I dress her in pieces that appeal to her body type, such as a-line skirts, cute blouses, frocks and blazer.”
To get the Jennifer look, “show your curves in a tasteful and classic way by throwing on some killer heels and a perfectly, fitted pair of high-waisted denims. Those are some items she can’t live without.”
MAKE-UP
Radiant, youthful and fresh, the diva’s look is always about flawless skin, luscious lips and luxe lashes. For the eyes, a cream, smoky eye shadow, whether in a shimmery pearl or dark black, is almost always present along with a great mascara to curl, lengthen and define each lash. For the brow, a brown liner fills in any gaps and gives a soft, natural ladylike look instead of the current severe trend. For the lips, it’s all about a bright and vibrant pout, usually in the red to deep mauve family, to pull the entire look together. With the right products and maybe a YouTube tutorial, you can achieve this diva look for a special affair or a weekend escapade.
Tip: To attain this classic beat, use Perfect Face Foundation Stick By Ashunta Sheriff, Eye Tint and Nude Lip Pencil by BECCA, Luxury Moisturizing Lipstick in Mahogany and Perfect Eye Pencil in Seduction by IMAN Cosmetics.
HAIR
Formerly known for her long, voluminous tresses, Jennifer switched over to a modern and sophisticated pixie cut a few years ago. Then, taking a page out of India.Arie’s “I Am Not My Hair” playbook, the powerhouse went for an even shorter buzz back in August. “Nothing is sexier on a woman than C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-C-E,” Archibald says. The length displays the singer’s striking facial features, and it’s playful, current and versatile. Slicked down (for those days in-between barber appointments), brushed back for a dramatic look or embellished with a clip-on or party cap for instant glam, the star rocks it. Hard.
Tips: To keep your shorter length conditioned and neat, use Frederick Benjamin Grooming Shampoo, Conditioner, Daily Hydrator and Sleek Water Pomade, available at shop.frederickbenjamin.com.
