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Home • Fashion

I Feel Pretty

South African soprano Pretty Yende is upending the world of classical music. The Milan-based diva is booked at New York's Metropolitan Opera through 2020. Before Jetting to Oslo to prepare for the role of Rosina, she shared the style and flair that complement her global reach."I Feel Pretty" was originally published in the February 2015 issue of ESSENCE magazine, on newsstands now!
By Essence · Updated October 27, 2020
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I Feel Pretty

Pretty Yende discovered opera as a teenager living in the small South African town of Piet Retief. “I heard the music, and somehow my soul knew what it was but my mind didn’t know,” Yende remembers. 

Theia crepe and knit blend trumpet gown. Clara Kasavina earrings, bracelet and ring. Gloves, stylsist’s own.

I Feel Pretty
Photography: Hao Zeng Styling: Billia Causieestko
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I Feel Pretty

“Black people were not allowed to study opera in schools before. I had to learn to accept that it will be something I will carry with me all the time because I can’t change the color of my skin,” reflects Pretty Yende.

I Feel Pretty
Photography: Hao Zeng, Styling: Billie Causieestko
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I Feel Pretty

South African soprano Pretty Yende is booked at the Metropolitan Opera through 2020.

I Feel Pretty
Photography: Hao Zeng, Styling: Billie Causieetsko
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I Feel Pretty

Pretty Yende has performed in serval classic operas including The Barber of Seville, Lucia di Lammermoor, Lakmé and more.

I Feel Pretty
Photography: Hao Zeng, Styling: Billie Causieetsko
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I Feel Pretty

Pretty Yende takes a walk through the Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center. 

I Feel Pretty
Photography: Hao Zeng, Styling: Billie Causieetsko
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I Feel Pretty

“I hardly enjoy comfort zones because I must find out what’s the best in me,” Pretty Yende says.

Diane von Furstenberg gown. Clara Kasavina necklaces, bangle and cuff. Vince Camuto bracelet. Graziela Gems diamond bangle. Effy Jewlry diamond bangle. Melanie Auld rings. Alejandra G heels.

I Feel Pretty
Photography: Hao Zeng, Styling: Billie Causieestko