Chameleonic Elegance: Michaela Jaé Rodriguez on Style, Fashion, and Empowerment

We all shop for clothes, but no two people approach it the same way. For some, it’s a social adventure; for others, a deeply personal ritual. It can be impulsive and exhilarating or deliberate and task-focused. How do you decide what fits your personality, budget, and needs? These are the questions we explore with notable figures in our column, “How I Shop.”

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez perfectly encapsulates the term “chameleon.” Her fashion choices, much like her career, are as versatile as they are striking. Whether it’s a sleek, body-conscious gown or edgy streetwear with ripped jeans and boots, she effortlessly shifts between styles to reflect her mood and environment.

Beyond her sartorial adaptability, Rodriguez’s life mirrors this versatility. From her iconic performances in Pose, American Horror Story, and Tick, Tick… Boom, to her music debut with the album 33, she sees no limits to her potential. This adaptability extends to her beauty ventures, such as becoming the face of Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk franchise—a role she embraced for its authenticity and Tilbury’s commitment to inclusivity and care.

“Beauty, to me, is about freedom and fun,” she shares. “Whatever you do with it, the world is your oyster.” This philosophy also resonates in her approach to fashion, where relationships with designers like Christian Siriano, Thom Browne, and Jason Wu have not only shaped her red-carpet appearances but also deepened her understanding of the artistry behind clothing.

For Rodriguez, every outfit tells a story. From her architectural Balmain gown at the Golden Globes to her iconic first purchase of Christian Louboutin heels, her wardrobe reflects her journey and aspirations. “When I wore Balmain, I felt like I was in perfect harmony with the dress. It didn’t overpower me, and I didn’t overshadow it. It was pure synergy.”

Shopping habits? Thoughtful yet relatable. “I always load my online cart, then reality checks me before I hit ‘buy.’ In-person, I’m more disciplined because I know I have to carry everything myself!”

Brands like Coach, Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton are among her favorites, each chosen for their timeless craftsmanship and versatility. Whether it’s a cherished Coach heirloom from her mother or a sleek Chanel purse, Rodriguez’s picks balance sentimentality and sophistication.

Beyond the glamour, she remains a passionate advocate for inclusivity in fashion and beauty. “We need more humanization and less sensationalizing, especially for marginalized communities like trans people and LGBTQIA+ individuals. It’s about taking up space with grace and leading by example.”

Rodriguez reminds us that style isn’t just about clothes—it’s a powerful tool for storytelling, empowerment, and change. Whether she’s on stage, on screen, or walking the Paris runway for Thom Browne, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez embodies a spirit of boundless creativity, resilience, and grace.