styles, and I think that’s what makes us stand out. We’re not trying to be anyone else, we’re just being ourselves and that’s what makes us special.
NIKI Takes the Stage in Manila for Night Two of “Mystic Force” Tour
It’s been a whirlwind year for the 26-year-old sensation, NIKI. With only two months left on her world tour promoting her latest album, Buzz, she’s ready to rock the stage for her second sold out show in Manila tonight. The energy is electric both outside the arena and backstage, as NIKI prepares to showcase her “Mystic Force” theme for the night, inspired by a lyric from her favorite song “Magnets.”
The theme is brought to life through a collaboration between NIKI, her stylist Katie Qian, and designer LVDF. The iconic adidas track pants are transformed into baggy pants, paired with denim, leather, and patchwork pieces, and topped off with a custom corset made from an ombre t-shirt and Teamgeist apparel. “It’s one of my favorite outfits we’ve ever made,” NIKI proudly tells Hypebeast. And don’t worry, comfort is still a top priority for the singer, who is constantly on the move. “My buzz words are ‘comfort’ and ‘movement,'” she shares. “I practically live in my adidas Superstars, they’re so comfortable. I’d say 95% of my life is spent in sneakers.”
Creating an Immersive World Through Fashion and Music
For NIKI, her wardrobe is an extension of her personality and a way to tell a story. “Before I’m a singer or producer, I identify as a writer,” she explains. “That’s why I’m passionate about visuals, aesthetics, styles, and themes. I want my fans to understand the project and the universe I’ve imagined it to be in.” She sees fashion and visuals as their own artistic languages, and strives to create a synergy between them and her music. “They have the potential to be extremely powerful when they strike that sweet spot,” she says.
NIKI credits her team of collaborators and friends for helping bring her storytelling to life, including director Isaac Ravishankara. “My North Star is communicating with fans so they understand where I’m coming from,” she says. And after almost a decade in the industry, NIKI is focused on staying true to herself and drawing from her own creativity. “Even in designing my outfits, I try to tap into what brings me joy and what’s exciting to envision,” she shares. “It’s like, ‘What do we want to communicate?’ and that sparks my creativity.”
Embracing Nuance and Individuality
NIKI’s latest album, Buzz, taught her the importance of embracing nuance and the realization that we can be multiple things at once. “Everyone has their own unique style, and that’s what makes us stand out,” she says. “We’re not trying to be anyone else, we’re just being ourselves and that’s what makes us special.” As a member of the powerful 88rising collective, NIKI is proud to be a part of a group that celebrates individuality and authenticity.
