At the 2024 MTV EMAs, Tyla honored Aaliyah’s legacy by recreating one of her most iconic looks. Tyla wore a striking blue, animal-print Roberto Cavalli dress that mirrors Aaliyah’s memorable yellow version from the 2000 MTV VMAs. Both dresses featured a zebra-like print, asymmetrical cuts, and a high slit with a faux-fur hemline, adding a dramatic flair. Tyla complemented the look with knee-high strappy heels, giving the classic style a modern twist.
Tyla’s homage struck a chord with fans on social media, sparking nostalgia for the early 2000s and appreciation for Aaliyah’s ongoing influence in fashion. Beyond her head-turning outfit, Tyla celebrated major wins that night, taking home awards for Best R&B, Best Afrobeats, and Best African Act, marking a milestone moment in her career and adding depth to her tribute to an enduring icon like Aaliyah.
This stylish nod is part of Cavalli’s lasting appeal, especially in recent fashion cycles where other celebrities, including Bretman Rock and Paloma Elsesser, have also drawn on Cavalli’s daring designs as a tribute to Aaliyah’s trendsetting influence.