Cindy Lou Who? That was the reaction of many when JoJo Siwa stepped onto the red carpet at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards in Los Angeles. Known for her vibrant and larger-than-life style, JoJo did not disappoint this time around either. Her look was nothing short of extraordinary, with half of her face covered in rhinestones, arranged in the shape of an eye mask that seemed to be glued on, giving it a dramatic and sparkling appearance. Her long, brown hair was styled straight and flowing, with sections woven into a massive, shimmery pink-and-silver headpiece that added to the overall grandeur of her ensemble.
When asked about the process behind her look, JoJo revealed that the makeup alone took a whopping four hours to complete. However, her hair, which was styled into the elaborate headpiece, remarkably only took about an hour, which she described as “pretty chill.” The inspiration behind this year’s look was her own outfit from the previous year’s event, which had been a bold and shocking ensemble that left a lasting impression. JoJo admitted that she felt the pressure to outdo herself this year, stating, “I was like, ‘Ah, s–t, I gotta top it.’ I don’t think I did, but I think I got close, so I’ll take it.”
JoJo’s fashion choices over the past couple of years have marked a significant shift in her public image, as she transitions from her earlier, more child-friendly persona. At the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards, she made a bold statement by wearing a black-and-silver bodysuit with sheer and fishnet cutouts, paired with combat boots. She also styled her blond hair into a faux-hawk and completed the look with KISS-inspired face paint, which she referred to as her “black beast look.” This was a drastic change from her usual style, which had always been more colorful and kid-friendly, and it left many of her fans in awe.
The reaction to her new look was mixed, as some fans found it shocking and intimidating. JoJo acknowledged this, saying, “People are afraid of things they don’t know. Things can be scary for people. New things can be very, very scary.” However, she also received positive feedback from fellow artists like Lil Nas X and Meghan Trainor, who encouraged her to embrace this new version of herself. Their support has been a significant factor in her confidence to continue expressing herself in this way.
JoJo expressed her gratitude for the encouragement she received from respected figures in the industry. She shared that their positive reinforcement has helped her stay true to herself and her artistic vision. She said, “The way that I’m able to keep going and keep being like, ‘Wait, actually, what I’m doing is right’ is because some of the most respected people in the world have come up to me and been like, ‘What you’re doing right now is so right. It is what the world needs, and I’m learning from what you are doing right now.’” This validation has been crucial in her journey of self-expression and rebranding.
JoJo Siwa’s journey from a child star with a bubbly, colorful image to a confident artist exploring edgier styles is a testament to her growth and evolution. Her willingness to take risks and challenge expectations has not only set her apart in the entertainment industry but has also inspired her fans to embrace change and be open to new experiences. Her message of self-acceptance and courage to be different resonates with many, making her a role model for those who are looking to break free from societal norms and expectations.
