C as in Cardi

From rags to riches, Cardi B is the girl from the Bronx on an unstoppable rise to the top. The new so-called ‘Queen of Rap’ has taken the world by storm within a year- for better or for worse. From her number one singles such as ‘Bodack Yellow’ and ‘I Like It’ to her active social life, you’ll be hearing the name Cardi B everywhere you go, and like it or lump it, she’s here to stay.

By Holly Lamb

Belcalis Marlenis Almanzar, professionally known as Cardi B proudly started out as a stripper in the Bronx, New York. A place that is notoriously known for being the poorest borough of the city. So, how did this girl turn her whole life around and propel herself into a global phenomenon, with a net worth of over $4million as well as lucrative sponsorship deals with Reebok, Steve Madden and Fashion Nova? You could say Cardi B’s biggest break was appearing on the reality TV show ‘Love and Hip-Hop’, a show following the lives of various artists involved in the New York Hip-Hop scene. By showcasing the outspoken artist she developed a huge following, with the nation now donning sayings like ‘OKURRP’ and ‘DAYUMMMM’ thanks to her loud mouth attitude.

To me, music is art and fashion is art, but fame? Fame isn't art, but the person you become when you're famous--your alter ego--that's art"

As well as being an influential female rapper Cardi B is now a notoriously dominant presence on the red carpet scene, with high end designers racing to dress her due to the media storms she so often creates.

Here we present a timeline of Cardi B’s top 5 most influential red carpet looks...

1. September 2017, 3rd Annual Diamond Ball

This look can only be described as Cardi’s Cinderella moment in a stunning mint green Christian Siriano gown that needed a team of people to carry.

2. January 2018, 60th Anniversary Grammys

Classy yet innovative, Cardi knocked it out of the park in this uber-stylish made-to-order white lace gown from Ashi Studio. By teaming the look with some sassy lace Christian Louboutin stilettos and Swarovski-encrusted acrylic manicure, Cardi proved this girl from the Bronx could turn from trashy to classy.

3. May 2018, Cardi B Met Gala dress

This look can only be described as iconic. Cardi was so on theme with this outfit we couldn’t take our eyes off her. Well done Jeremy Scott, we applaud you for this heavenly masterpiece.

I don't want my personality to overshadow my talent"

4. August 2018, VMAs

Chic, edgy and a total surprise. Moments like this you can count on Cardi B to constantly be changing the game. Everything about this look shouts classy and sexy- from the side split to the cute pixie cut. ‘AKKUURPPP’ Cardi B’ slayin.

5. October 2018, American Music Awards

Being nominated for 8 awards including video of the year for ‘Bodak Yellow’ you have to look like the influential girl boss that you are. Cardi certainly didn’t disappoint fans at the AMA’s in October 2018 with her stunning floral corset dress with matching flower peep toe heels and hair wrap.

No matter the drama or ruckus she is creating on the red carpet, Cardi B knows how to dress for the occasion. These outbursts are even said to be the main reason for her new sponsorship deal with Reebok with the trainer giant stating in a press release, “Everything that you love about Cardi B is what you love about Reebok, there’s nothing we love more than taking risks and standing boldly behind those who do the same.” HL

The women that inspire me to be honest are the women that struggle."