If you’re not a Nickelodeon fan, you were probably surprised (and maybe scared) at this year’s arrival/reception of Ariana Grande a.k.a. Cat Valentine, the actor-turned-singer who once starred in the network’s Victorious and spin-off, Sam & Cat.
And scared you should be: since starting her TV career in 2009, the 21-year-old has gone onto earn fans, kudos, and Mariah Carey comparisons thanks to her 2013 record, Yours Truly, and her sophomore album, My Everything (which came out this August). And then there’s that little track, “Bang Bang” – the summer jam that saw the singer perform and collaborate Nicki Minaj and Jessie J.
Fortunately, for one night you can harness her power and channel Grande’s ponytail-loving self with five simple moves. The hardest? Not wearing the wig again after Halloween night.
First things first, her hair’s not the realest: Grande has been open about wearing extensions to mask damage caused by years of dying, so take the same route and pick up that signature ponytail to pay homage to the singer who’s barely ever seen without it.
At her performance at this year’s MMVAs, Ms. Grande dazzled (literally) in silver, and fortunately, the availability of metallic pieces this year means your costume has some mileage. H&M offers an affordable option if you plan on wearing your bustier only once, while Nasty Gal gives you a chance to drop some cash on a piece you might find yourself recirculating.
True, the tones may be a little off, but the good news is that party attendees will be so enamored with your hairpiece that specifics will be overlooked. Thus, save money where you can on and opt for an American Apparel silver mini: it completes the outfit without necessitating you to invest in a silver two-piece dress.
American Apparel Metallic Late Night Mini Skirt (£12.00, American Apparel)
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6 Steps to Ariana Grande
WHITE PLATFORM BOOTS
Sometimes certain costume pieces are worth the investment and other times, we’re talking about these white platform boots. Keep it simple with a $40 pair from Party City, or bask in Target USA’s brand of go-go boots, which may allow for easier movement/dancing/hair-tossing.
You hold on to this, you do not drop this, and you use it to hide the right side of your face. You are Ariana Grande, and now sing it from the rooftops. (Or wherever it is your party is being held.)
