NEW YORK — With just one day until his pieces make their debut in Mugler’s spring show in Paris, accessory designer Rodrigo Otazu is still reliving the afternoon he spent playing “dress-up” with Lady Gaga last week here.
Mugler creative director and Lady Gaga stylist Nicola Formichetti tapped Otazu not only to design the accessories for the brand’s upcoming runway show but to work with him on a short film that will serve as the backdrop throughout. Shot by photographers Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin, the short features the pop star in elaborate, oversize tribal jewelry — including large pectoral necklaces and his signature metal detailing.
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“I never saw so much hair [in one place] and people running around, and then Gaga arrived in a gorgeous coat — a gold beaded coat,” Otazu told WWD of the shoot that took place in a studio at Pier 66. “But the most exciting part was when Gaga looked in my eyes and told me she loved my work. It was the most remarkable moment.”
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The designer created about 20 custom-made pieces — rife with gold, silver and “Swarovskis all over the place” — comprised of necklaces, earrings and even some pieces for, yes, Gaga’s teeth, according to Otazu.
“It’s very dramatic and ornate but at the same time very simple, modern and clean,” the designer said of his work for Formichetti, who had two distinct visions for this collection: a futuristic, African-inspired look and Hollywood glamour.
Otazu, first discovered by Formichetti after Britney Spears wore his jewelry at the MTV Video Music Awards during her infamous “I’m a Slave for U” performance, was also responsible for Gaga’s jeweled beef clutch that she wore to last year’s MTV VMAs. His work has also been featured in Italian Vogue.