Close your eyes and picture a stand-up comedian. Perhaps they’re performing in a basement with an exposed brick wall, or sitting on a wooden stool against a black curtain. What are they wearing? A shirt tucked into belted pants? A graphic T-shirt and skinny jeans? Traditionally, male comedians have dominated the visual narrative, often sporting casual or semi-formal attire. However, today’s female comics are breaking the mold, embracing high fashion and transforming the comedic stage into a runway.
A New Era of Comedic Fashion
Female comedians today are more likely to be seen in vintage Versace, Gucci, or Alessandra Rich than in casual denim. For instance, American comedian Ziwe, host of the YouTube show “Baited,” conducted an interview with George Santos in an archival 1980s red Jean Paul Gaultier skirt suit. Similarly, Ayo Edebiri and Rachel Sennott, both former stand-up comics, have become fixtures at fashion shows for brands like Prada and Balenciaga.
New York-based comic Mary Beth Barone showcased her love for fashion in her first independent special, “Thought Provoking,” by wearing an iconic Versace chainmail slip dress, previously donned by Kate Moss in 1999. Barone’s choice to wear such a historically significant piece underscores her dedication to blending fashion with her comedic persona.
Fashion as a Statement
Barone, who grew up idolizing pop stars like Britney Spears and Paris Hilton, believes in the power of fashion to elevate a performance. “Those pop stars were so powerful and willing to own their aesthetic and persona. I felt like, why can’t comedians do that?” she says. Her commitment to high fashion often contrasts with her deadpan delivery, creating a unique and compelling stage presence.
Catherine Cohen, whose Netflix special “The Twist…? She’s Gorgeous” aired in 2022, also embraces a glamorous aesthetic. Known for her vibrant mini-dresses and statement boots, Cohen collaborates with designer Kelsey Randall, who has also dressed pop icons like Beyoncé and Lizzo. “I always thought, ‘I’m going to treat myself like a pop star and see what happens,’” Cohen explains.
A Legacy of Stylish Comedians
Stylish female comedians aren’t a new phenomenon. Icons like Phyllis Diller, Jean Carroll, and Joan Rivers often performed in glamorous outfits. However, over time, female comedians were pressured to adopt more conservative attire to be taken seriously in a male-dominated field. Barone recalls being advised against wearing dresses on stage, as it was deemed too distracting. Yet, she and others are now reclaiming their right to dress as they please.
Margaret Cho, a trailblazer in comedic fashion, often performed in pieces from designers like Betsey Johnson and Todd Oldham during the 1990s. Despite the industry’s chauvinistic climate, Cho embraced fashion as an act of defiance. “You want your rock star to be fully aware of their style. The brand of a comedian includes style,” she says.
The Future of Comedy and Couture
The convergence of comedy and couture suggests a promising future where stand-up sets could be as influential for fashion brands as a major concert tour. Cho, reflecting on the new generation of stylish comedians like Edebiri and Sennott, believes they are perfect for bringing new energy to established fashion houses.
Cohen echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that a strong fashion sense enhances her comedic performance. “Before, people maybe felt like dressing wasn’t crucial to what they were doing artistically. But now, I think it only adds to what I do.”
As Barone embarks on her new tour, “Pillow Talk,” she remains excited about the evolving landscape of comedic fashion. “It feels like there’s a shift happening. And I’m excited about it.”
