That resulted in a circusy uniform consisting of a striped black-and-white tuxedo vest and cropped trousers, complete with a white shirt, red necktie, knee socks, and brogues. “I love the little bow at the neck and the striped vest. They give an old-fashioned performer quality, like they about to step onto the main stage and introduce themselves,” says Monáe. The star of the costume, of course, was those life-like fish prosthetics—down to the scales, big bug eyes, and ridged fins. “Phish Boy has such a distinct silhouette, and I love how the fish features come together with the vintage carnival-inspired outfit,” says Monáe. “The scales, the eyes, and the textures help make them feel like a real creature rather than just a costume.”
For the star, getting in the Halloween spirit is about more than playing dress up. It’s an opportunity to tell stories, and celebrate talented artists—be it special effects people, or stylists. “As an artist and storyteller, I love getting to explore different characters and discover new parts of myself in the process,” she says. She also loves being able to step outside of herself—and totally surrendering herself to the character at hand. “I always want there to be a whole character underneath the prosthetics, and I love imagining what Phish Boy might get up to when nobody’s watching,” she says.
“I have so much fun coming up with original creatures. There’s no rulebook: I get to follow my imagination wherever it takes me.”
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