One of the main reasons we love watching “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” is to see what the ladies are wearing. Between Phaedra’s grandiose Southern Belle persona and Kandi’s understated urban look, the women of this reality show have a knack for letting their personalities shine. But if you’ve really been paying attention, you’ll agree that it’s actually Cynthia who reigns; even NeNe Leakes frequently gives her buddy props on Bailey’s flourishes. Being a supermodel doesn't automatically provide good fashion sense. But aside from the obvious (like long legs and cheekbones to die for) Cynthia seems to have her finger on the pulse of what being a fashionista really means. If you’re still a non-believer, just consider the following…
The Wedding Dress
Most brides deviating from white opt for either a subdued variation of the color or another pastel. In Season 3, Cynthia strayed from this completely by making her entrance in a stunning gunmetal gray gown with a huge over-the-shoulder bow and dramatic skirt. The average woman might look like she’s wearing Reynolds Wrap. But somehow on Bailey, this unconventional hue screams “bride.”
Her attire is age-appropriate.
Somehow the phrase “age-appropriate” brings to mind images of Mom jeans, culottes, and slacks with elastic waistbands. Fortunately, none of these items are wardrobe staples for Bailey. For her “sleazy” double date at the Clermont Lounge with Phaedra and Apollo, she dialed up the sexy in a tight mini-skirt and stilettos; but her sleek hairdo and minimal accessories kept her from looking like she was auditioning for a spot on the stripper pole. When “slumming”, her look is never too far from what’s hip. Even her prescription glasses are in keeping with America’s nerd-chic fashion trend.
She embraces her African roots.
Straight, kinky, or curly –long, short, or somewhere in between, Cynthia’s hair journey is one that often embraces her African roots. This couldn’t have been more evident than during her trip to The Motherland in Season 4. Her low maintenance braided ‘do paid homage to her ancestry, but certainly wasn’t short on flair. And even on familiar soil, she frequently incorporates colorful head wraps and turbans into her wardrobe.
She understands what works for her body.
As Atlanta appears to be the Booty Capital of the world, acquiring and outfitting a sizable rump has become something of a sport. In a recent episode, Cynthia admits that her own “donkey booty” is now right up there with Kandi’s and Phaedra’s. This is perhaps true. But for some reason, Bailey doesn’t seem to make this physical feature the star of her ensembles. Indeed, her attire befits her womanly curves without exploiting them. Her skirts, as they hug her figure, are never bursting at the seams. “Beauty fades. But class is forever.” Speak, Cynthia. Speak.
