Ariana Grande has opened up about the emotional struggles that led her to adopt a signature oversized hoodie look in 2018. In a candid video for Vogue’s *Life in Looks* series, the 32-year-old singer reflected on a tumultuous period in her life marked by profound personal challenges, revealing that her fashion choice was more than just a trend—it was a coping mechanism during a time of heartache.
A Time of Turmoil
In the Vogue segment, Grande revisited her iconic outfit from a 2018 outing in New York City, characterised by a baggy sweatshirt, thigh-high boots, and her signature high ponytail. However, the star explained that her wardrobe choice stemmed from a desire to “hide away.” “2018 was a very strange time for me,” she confessed, pointing to the aftermath of the tragic Manchester Arena attack in May 2017, which claimed 22 lives and left hundreds injured. This devastating event, combined with her whirlwind engagement to comedian Pete Davidson and the loss of her ex-boyfriend Mac Miller, created a perfect storm of grief and anxiety.
Grande expressed that donning something comfortable helped her navigate through the chaos. “I was processing a lot, and I always wanted to hide away in something really cozy,” she shared. Despite her casual attire, she noted that the boots still gave her a sense of confidence. “I genuinely did not have the mental energy to consider clothing,” she admitted. “So, the easiest thing for me was to throw on a sweatshirt and a c***y boot.”
The Weight of Loss
The year 2018 marked one of the most challenging periods in Grande’s life. Just months after the Manchester attack, she found herself in a high-profile romance with Davidson, which was as intense as it was fleeting. The couple became engaged mere weeks after they started dating, but their relationship ended amid further turmoil.
The loss of Mac Miller, who passed away from an accidental overdose in September 2018, was particularly devastating for Grande. She shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, calling him her “dearest friend, above anything else” and expressing her enduring love for him. In a subsequent interview with Vogue, she described the overwhelming grief she experienced, saying, “I was the glue for such a long time, and I found myself becoming… less and less sticky. The pieces just started to float away.”
Finding Strength Through Vulnerability
Throughout her struggles, Grande’s openness about her mental health has resonated with fans and fellow artists alike. She has spoken candidly about the anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder she faced following the Manchester tragedy. In November 2018, she wrote a poignant letter to her fans, revealing that the attack left her “speechless and filled with questions for the rest of my life.”
Her willingness to share these experiences not only highlights the importance of mental health awareness but also illustrates the healing power of vulnerability. By embracing her feelings and expressing them through her fashion choices, Grande has turned a painful chapter of her life into a source of strength and inspiration for others.
Why it Matters
Ariana Grande’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact that trauma can have on individuals, particularly those in the public eye. Her choice to wear oversized hoodies was not merely a fashion statement; it was a reflection of her emotional state during a time of turmoil. By sharing her journey, Grande is helping to destigmatise mental health struggles, encouraging others to acknowledge their feelings and seek support. In an era where mental health awareness is more crucial than ever, her honesty fosters connection and understanding, proving that even in our darkest moments, we are not alone.