Teyana Taylor Recreates Janet Jackson’s Iconic “If” Look with Stunning Detail
Teyana Taylor is once again showing her deep admiration for Janet Jackson, this time by recreating one of the legend’s most iconic stage looks. The Grammy Award winner stepped into Jackson’s shoes for a special feature, wearing the same military inspired cream outfit made famous during the Janet World Tour.
The recreation was done for People’s World’s Most Beautiful issue, where Taylor delivered a striking tribute that captured both the look and the energy of the original moment. As a result, the photos quickly drew attention, not just for their style but for the meaning behind them.
Teyana Taylor’s Janet Jackson Tribute Earns Praise from the Icon Herself
Janet Jackson herself reacted to the tribute, and her response made the moment even more powerful. Clearly impressed, she praised Taylor for capturing the essence of the original performance.
“Wow, I just have to say wow, Tey. You did it—you captured it; you captured the energy, the mood,” Jackson said. She went further, adding, “I’m honored. I really am honored. Thank you so much. I love it.”
That approval turned the tribute into a full circle moment. It was no longer just a fan honoring an icon. It became a shared moment between two artists connected by respect and influence.
Childhood Inspiration Behind Teyana Taylor’s Love for Janet Jackson
Taylor’s admiration for Janet Jackson goes back many years. She revealed that her love for the singer started in the late 1990s when she was still a child trying to understand her path.
“When I saw it, oh my God. I knew what I wanted to do when I got older,” she said, recalling the moment she watched Jackson’s Velvet Rope Tour. That early exposure played a major role in shaping her desire to become an artist.
Since then, Taylor has often credited Jackson as one of her biggest inspirations. Her journey shows how powerful representation and influence can be, especially for young Black girls looking for direction.
Styling the Look: Teyana Taylor Brings Creative Vision to Life
This tribute was not just about copying a look. Taylor made sure it felt fresh and personal. She styled the entire concept herself, working with a creative team that helped bring her vision to life.
Designers Baba Jagne and Laurel DeWitt supported the execution, while makeup artist Yeika Glow and hairstylist Lateafa Alvaranga completed the transformation. Together, they recreated the look while adding subtle updates that made it stand out.
Taylor explained that she wanted something “different and unexpected,” especially since she has paid tribute to Jackson before at events like the VMAs and BMI Awards.
Teyana Taylor and Janet Jackson’s Growing Bond Beyond Music
Over time, the connection between Taylor and Jackson has grown into a real relationship. What started as admiration has turned into a friendship that continues to shape Taylor’s career.
“When I first retired from music, she poured into me and gave me really good advice,” Taylor shared. That support played a role in her decision to return to music, showing how mentorship can influence major life choices.
Even with their close bond, Taylor says she still sees herself as a fan. That balance between respect and friendship highlights the impact Janet Jackson continues to have on the next generation of artists.
