Tyla Channels Aaliyah’s Iconic Tiger-Print Look at 2024 MTV EMAs
Some red-carpet moments become part of fashion history, remembered for years as a marker of boldness and innovation. Among these iconic moments is Aaliyah’s unforgettable tiger-print dress by Roberto Cavalli, which she debuted at the 2000 MTV Video Music Awards. Over two decades later, this stunning gown continues to inspire, now serving as the inspiration for South African singer Tyla, who paid tribute to the late R&B star by wearing a modern version of the gown at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs).
Tyla’s outfit took center stage at this year’s EMAs in Manchester, England, where she wore an updated rendition of the iconic dress. Tyla’s choice was more than just a fashion statement—it was a homage to Aaliyah, a nod to her fans, and a reflection of her own unique identity and rising influence in music. The original gown, worn by Aaliyah in striking canary yellow with bold black tiger stripes, was legendary for its fearless design, which perfectly captured Aaliyah’s stylish, cutting-edge persona. Tyla’s choice to recreate the look in a sky-blue version of the dress brought a fresh twist while honoring the essence of Aaliyah’s original statement.
The details in Tyla’s dress showcased Roberto Cavalli’s original elements, including the unmistakable tiger stripes and the fur-trimmed slit. However, Tyla’s version added her own flair. Unlike Aaliyah’s yellow, Tyla’s sky-blue color choice made her look feel modern and refreshing. The gown’s cowl neckline, the striking tiger pattern, and the fur trim along the thigh-high slit were nearly identical to the original, showing that Tyla and her styling team wanted to preserve the dress’s timeless design elements while adding a contemporary touch.
In addition to the gown, Tyla amplified the look with accessories that made her EMA appearance unforgettable. She wore glossy black leather heels, featuring dramatic cutouts that wound up to just below her knees, adding an edgy contrast to the gown. A collection of high-end jewelry by Jacob & Co. elevated the ensemble further, with pieces that included a choker necklace watch valued at an astonishing $1 million, diamond-encrusted hoop earrings, and a sparkling bracelet. This high-glamour jewelry added a luxurious vibe, reinforcing Tyla’s status as a rising star with a taste for both style and substance.
Beyond fashion, Tyla’s tiger-print gown symbolized a deep connection with her fan base, affectionately called her “Tygers.” The tiger print has been a recurring element in her style, one that holds special meaning for Tyla and her fans. She previously shared with *Harper’s Bazaar*, “I love incorporating tiger print and the effortless island vibes—especially in this era, because it’s obviously me introducing myself to the world, and those themes are heavy in the stuff that we’re doing.” Tyla explained how the tiger print has become part of her signature aesthetic, connecting her artistry with the fans who have supported her journey.
The tiger motif isn’t only a design choice; it symbolizes strength, individuality, and resilience, which resonates with her fan base and reflects her own path to success. Tyla’s approach to fashion and music brings her closer to her fans, who see themselves represented in her work. In many ways, her dedication to building her unique “Tyla story” mirrors how Aaliyah inspired millions in her time, connecting through a shared love for music, style, and confidence.
Tyla’s red-carpet appearance was a celebration of her style, her fanbase, and her success in music. At the 2024 MTV EMAs, she won multiple awards, including Best R&B, Best African Act, and Best Afrobeats. Her wins at the event were a powerful reminder of her rising influence and her ability to connect with a global audience, much like Aaliyah did during her career.
As a South African artist making waves internationally, Tyla is leading the way for African and R&B artists on the global stage. Her mix of Afrobeats, R&B, and pop has struck a chord with listeners around the world, while her bold and unique fashion choices reflect her culture and personality. By wearing Aaliyah’s iconic look, she acknowledges the musical icons who came before her while embracing her future and the potential to redefine style and music for the next generation.
Aaliyah’s influence endures, with many stars today drawing inspiration from her fearless fashion and music. Aaliyah’s 2000 MTV VMAs tiger-print gown, which remains one of the most celebrated looks in MTV history, was a reflection of her authenticity, her love for fashion, and her unapologetic confidence. By choosing this gown for her own moment in the spotlight, Tyla both celebrated and paid tribute to Aaliyah’s legacy, keeping the spirit of that iconic look alive for new audiences.
For Tyla, wearing the gown was a way to merge her past with her future. While she may be at the beginning of her career compared to Aaliyah, her choice to emulate such an iconic moment shows her respect for the icons of the past while boldly forging her path. The dress represents not only a visual homage but also a symbolic passing of the torch, from one talented artist to another.
Tyla’s appearance at the MTV EMAs is just one step in her journey to building a lasting legacy. With her distinct style, powerful connection to her fans, and undeniable talent, she is carving out a place for herself in the music and fashion worlds. Her tribute to Aaliyah highlights how the spirit of music and style can transcend time, connecting artists and fans across generations and reminding us that some icons are timeless.