This is probably the one and only time I can honestly say that Ciara looks like someone who knows fashion. Looking to be having a lapse in Solange-itits, Ciara got in touch with her inner fashionista (and maybe a credible stylist) and stepped out in this crazy fierce ensemble for Nylon Magazine’s 10th Anniversary party in New York the other night. I absolutely love everything about this look; the asymmetrically tiered pencil skirt and shrunken leather jacket pulled together with a simple white blouse, wide black belt, and simple jewelry is incredibly stylish. But what really makes it pop are those delicious, fire-engine red leather gloves which add interest and color to an otherwise neutral palette. Now if she can look like this all the time she’d have a reason to stay on some people’s radar.

As part of her attempt to remain relevant, Ciara gets all avante in a spread for the January issue of Elle. I may have been a little more impressed had it not been for the literal composition: the pseudo subtle poses, the offbeat hair and makeup, the captivating, yet impractical wardrobe. It’s somewhat trite, but also refreshing, since I’m enjoying the fact that more hip hop and R&B artists are embracing high-fashion couture, whether its self- imposed or at the heedfulness of their publicist. I’ll give Ciara some credit though…it was probably her idea.