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Home • Fashion

Style File: Whitney Houston

Style File: Whitney Houston
By Essence · Updated October 28, 2020
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01
Flower Power

Bold looks were a sign of the times — the 1980s. Here, Houston wears a gorgeous over-sized flower applique gown, a look only she could pull off with a larger than life voice to match.

Style File: Whitney Houston
02
Pretty Pastels

In the early days of her career, Houston favored pretty pastels that complemented her golden skin tone. This one-shoulder style she wore to the Grammys was a sexy yet tasteful selection.

Style File: Whitney Houston
03
Pretty in Pink

This soft pink bodycon dress showed off Houston’s petite curves. She accessorized it with chunky statement earrings — a ’80s style favorite.

Style File: Whitney Houston
04
Fly Fur

At the 1986 13th Annual American Music Awards Whitney enjoys the night with Stevie Wonder in a luxurious fur over her red carpet gown.

Style File: Whitney Houston
05
Androgynous Style

Another Houston favorite: all-white ensembles. In 1986, Houston performed in Chicago wearing embellished pearl leggings and matching top, but what really made this style stand out are the metallic silver blazer and Lucite heels.

Style File: Whitney Houston
06
It’s a Wrap

Here, Houston sports an all-white wrap gown with blazer-style lapels.

Style File: Whitney Houston
07
White Night

Houston dresses in a variation of the shade in a pleated and ruffled maxi dress at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

Style File: Whitney Houston
08
Wedding Bell Beauty

Houston’s wedding dress was an unforgettable look — a lace fishtail gown with ‘The Bodyguard’ style headdress.

Style File: Whitney Houston
09
Golden Girl

At the 21st Annual Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, Houston sparkles in a golden embroidered scoop-neck gown.

Style File: Whitney Houston
10
Black Out

Houston later transitioned into more modern, sleek and chic styles — like this black Lurex long-sleeved dress.

Style File: Whitney Houston
11
Mother & Daughter Style

At 2011’s Clive Davis pre-Grammys gala Houston and daughter Bobbi Kristina both arrive in sleek LBD’s.

Style File: Whitney Houston
12
Marvelous Mini

Houston takes it back to her favorite hue, but in a sexy strapless mini accessorized with a flower belt.

Style File: Whitney Houston
13
Sparkle

Houston was born to shine, and this metallic sequined gown shows the diva in a divine light.

Style File: Whitney Houston