Great Outfits in Fashion History: Sade's O2 'Catsuit'

There are perfectly good celebrity style moments, and then there are the looks that really stick with you, the ones you try desperately to recreate at home. In 'Great Outfits in Fashion History,' Fashionista editors are revisiting their all-time favorite lewks.

Sade is one of the most iconic artists in history, not only for her incredible vocals, but also for her distinct style. The British-Nigerian singer is almost always seen sporting a red lip, slicked-back low ponytail and hoop earrings, with clothes that feel as suave as they do relaxed.

Her all-black outfit on-stage at London's O2 Arena in 2011 demonstrates this so well: At 52 years old, Sade performed alongside her band wearing a sheer turtleneck, form-fitting pants and strappy black heels that mimic the look of a catsuit — transforming the ensemble with layers of leather belts around her hips and sequined arm warmers to give her movements extra dimension.

Sade has always had a minimalistic style — be it her double denim or "Smooth Operator" costumes — but it's never ordinary. Like her soulful music, there's something timeless about how she dresses. It makes sense that she studied fashion design at Saint Martins (before it became CSM).

If you're like me, you probably lost it a couple years ago when it was rumored that Sade was recording new music... There's no newness yet, but until that day comes, I'll have her music on repeat and continue to be mesmerized by her style through the decades. Keep scrolling to shop pieces inspired her understated O2 look.

Marcella Eloise Sheer Turtleneck, $65, available here (sizes XS-3XL)

Dynamite Kate High Waisted Skinny Jeans, $65, available here (sizes 23-32)

Brandon Backwood Bamboo B Heel, $265, available here

Jenny Bird Icon Large Hoop Earrings, $110, available here

J.Crew Classic Belt in Italian Leather, $50 $45, available here

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