The 2025 Grammy Awards marked a transformative night for Doechii, who stepped onto the red carpet showcasing both her musical talent and distinctive fashion sense. The rising star dazzled fans and critics alike, clad in top-to-toe Thom Browne, which included a chic white shirt, tie, and form-fitting gray gown, proving yet again why she’s considered one of today’s leading artists.
Up for Best New Artist and Best Rap Album for her widely acclaimed mixtape Alligator Bites Never Heal, Doechii was also nominated for Best Rap Performance for her hit single “Nissan Altima.” Stepping back from her music, Doechii reflected on the personal significance of her nominations, stating, "It just shows how conceptual the music really was," as she expressed gratitude to the recognition of her artistry during a conversation with Variety.
Doechii, whose real name is Doja Cat, made her iconic return to the Grammy stage after last attending the ceremony back in 2022. Her previous appearance, where she wore a dramatic black puffball dress, solidified her as one to watch. But this year’s event felt even more monumental. "I feel incredible," she shared with E! on the Grammy red carpet, showcasing her unique blend of confidence and style.
Her gown for the night featured sculpted protruding hips and was accented with elegant red corsetry along the back, showcasing her flair for fashion as much as her musical prowess. The aesthetics had fans excited about Doechii's ability to merge her “Swamp Princess” image with elegant prepster polish, hailing the look as both fearless and refreshing.
Critics have increasingly labeled her as someone who has fully arrived, noting, "It's Doechii, bitch, Miss D-O-E!" showcasing not only her self-confidence but her undeniable talent. With glowing reviews, her mixtape has garnered nods from top publications, including Rolling Stone, which hailed it as one of the best albums of the year.
Doechii's performance at the Grammys, alongside her DJ Miss Milan, marks yet another high point for the duo, who have been inseparable partners on stage. Known for her vibrant energy and creative choreography, DJ Milan has become instrumental to Doechii’s performances, as she brings both musicality and flair to the stage. Milan describes their partnership as more than just professional; it’s grounded in genuine sisterhood. "We stand out based on the honest sisterhood we have with each other," she mentioned during an interview with USA TODAY.
This evening’s ceremony would also spotlight Doechii’s artistic evolution, especially with her song “Nissan Altima,” where she boldly claims, "I'm the new hip-hop Madonna, I'm the trap Grace Jones." It's clear her mission goes beyond simply winning awards; it's about making history, especially considering her nomination for Best Rap Album marks the first time ever for a female artist nominated with a mixtape.
Throughout the last year, Doechii's meteoric rise has seen her headline her own tour, collaborate with industry heavyweights like Tyler, The Creator and SZA, and perform at major events. Her creative approach—rooted deeply in personal growth—has transformed her music-making process. "Before I create, I’m usually thinking about the life lessons I have learned," she stated, reflecting on how her personal experiences shape her artistic expressions.
Her stylist, Sam Woolf, noted the distinct direction Doechii has taken with her fashion, emphasizing her commitment to showcasing her multifaceted persona without boundaries. The trendy aesthetics reflect her personality perfectly, allowing her to navigate the fine line between traditional female rap imagery and new-age fashion sensibilities.
During her iconic moments at the Grammys, Doechii's glam was perfectly styled with dark, glossy lip color and ink-black smoky eyes, enhancing her overall captivating presence. Her hair was styled with free-hanging braids and swirling edges leading to the sleek glamour she embodied on the red carpet, making her one of the evening’s most talked-about fashion icons.
With the ceremony winding down, Doechii's performant spirit—and her nominations—mark significant milestones for her and the many aspiring artists who look up to her. It’s evident she has firmly established herself as not only a fashion powerhouse but also as one of the defining voices of her generation. Following her performance, the accolades she received could very well launch her to even greater heights, solidifying her place as one of the industry’s driving forces.
Tonight's Grammy Awards gives fans and fellow musicians alike something to celebrate—not just Doechii's talent but her impact on the culture. Finding her footing at such high-profile events continues to inspire the next generation of artists, encouraging them to remain authentic and pursue their passions without barriers. Doechii is certainly more than just a rising star; she is changing the game and lifting others as she climbs.