Lupita Nyong’o made a statement at the Tony Awards by wearing a silver breastplate molded from her own body, created by Pakistani artist and fashion designer Misha Japanwala. Nyong’o described the experience of wearing the one-of-a-kind creation as “a shameless out-of-body experience” and praised Japanwala’s work as an “act of resistance and celebration” against the external shame attached to one’s body. While some critics called the look “distasteful,” others praised the poignant message of the bespoke breastplate.
Lupita Nyong’o made a statement at the Tony Awards by wearing a realistic silver breastplate designed by Pakistani artist and fashion designer, Misha Japanwala, who creates lifelike breastplates to celebrate and resist external shame attached to one’s body.
Lupita Nyong’o arrived on the 2023 Tony Awards red carpet in a stunning custom silver breastplate molded from her own naked body, as part of a creation by Pakistani artist and fashion designer Misha Japanwala. Nyong’o described the experience as “shameless” and shared on Instagram that she felt “honored, humbled, strengthened, and energized” by the one-of-a-kind design.
Japanwala’s work focuses on celebrating and challenging the external shame associated with one’s body. Nyong’o expressed her admiration for Japanwala’s exhibition “Beghairati Ki Nishaani: Traces of Shamelessness”, which showcases similar breastplates. The exhibition is on view at Hannah Traore Gallery in New York City until the end of July.
The “Black Panther” actress paired the nipple-freeing breastplate with a black velvet blazer and flared trousers, along with De Beers diamonds and a Bella Rosa Collection clutch. Her outfit was styled by Michaela Erlanger, her longtime stylist. While some critics found the outfit “distasteful”, others praised its “poignant message” and celebrated the freedom for women to wear what they want without caring what others think.
Janelle Monáe and Naomi Campbell praised Nyong’o’s outfit, calling it “phenomenal” and “divine” respectively. Japanwala has also created similar breastplates for Cardi B, Julia Fox, and Halsey. Nyong’o’s bold fashion statement added to her red carpet history, as she was previously nominated for a Tony for her performance in “Eclipsed” in 2016.