Teyana Taylor Channels Janet Jackson’s Iconic ‘If’ Look

Teyana Taylor has always been a devoted fan of Janet Jackson, and now she’s paying the ultimate homage. For People magazine’s World’s Most Beautiful issue, Taylor recreated one of Janet’s most iconic looks: the striking military-inspired cream ensemble from her “If” performance during the 1993-1995 Janet World Tour.

A Fan’s Dream Come True

“Everybody who knows me, knows I don’t play about Janet,” Taylor told People. Her admiration for the music icon dates back to her childhood, deeply inspiring her own artistic journey. Taylor recalled discovering Janet’s 1998-1999 Velvet Rope Tour DVD at just nine years old, an experience that solidified her desire to become an artist.

While Taylor has paid tribute to Janet’s style before, including at the VMAs and BMI Awards, she wanted this recreation to be “different and unexpected.” She personally styled the entire look, collaborating with Baba Jagne, Laurel DeWitt, makeup artist Yeika Glow, and hairstylist Lateafa Alvaranga to bring the vision to life.

A Special Friendship and Fan’s Heart

Beyond the fan admiration, Taylor and Jackson have developed a genuine friendship. Taylor shared that Janet’s advice was instrumental in her decision to return to music after initially retiring in 2020. “She played a big part in why I came back,” Taylor revealed. “It’s kind of crazy because now she’s like my homegirl in real life. I call her Jan.”

Despite their close bond, Taylor remains a devoted fan at heart. “Even though we’ve grown a close bond, I’m still a fan. I don’t take it for granted,” she admitted.

Janet Jackson’s Impressed Reaction

Janet Jackson herself was deeply impressed by Teyana’s tribute. In a video message filmed for People, she expressed her admiration: “Wow, I just have to say wow, Tey. You did it—you captured it; you captured the energy, the mood.” Jackson praised the outfit as “absolutely stunning” and expressed her honor, saying, “I’m really honored, Tey. Thank you so much. I love it, absolutely love it.”