On Jennifer Lopez’s birthday, we share styling tips to replicate few of her iconic looks

J-Lo’s famous Versace jungle dress

Despite an illustrious career in music and cinema, Jennifer Lopez AKA J-Lo sings she's still ‘Jenny from the block'. And while her connection to her roots might be a testament to the claim, on the outside, she is packaged in glamour, and we love that about her. Over the years, The ‘Love don't cost a thing' performer has worked with stylist duo Rob Zangardi and Mariel Haenn to deliver some fiery outfits that are quintessentially J-Lo; the all-white ensembles, gowns with slits and cutouts in all the right places, and even her casual wide-leg pants for coffee runs are inspired. Mumbai-based fashion expert Yuvika Abrol picks three of the singer's iconic looks and tells you how to get your J-Lo on.

The monumental jungle dress

Think Jennifer Lopez, think green Versace dress that she wore to the 2000 Grammy Awards. You know the dress, it's the one with a plunging neckline all the way to her navel; the one that broke the internet, quite literally, because Google Image Search was born only after the platform was inundated with searches for it. Styled by Andrea Lieberman, the dress had already been worn by three major celebrities before her, including Donatella Versace herself. But it will always be remembered as J-Lo's jungle dress. Abrol notes that it was because of the way the cut accentuated Lopez's curves and the confidence and nonchalance she wore it with.

Mirror the look

"Indian women have beautiful curvy bodies, so we can really carry off long gowns that highlight and celebrate our curves," Abrol remarks, and continues that slits, deep plunges, high leg cuts on long sweeping gowns are the way to go. Reveal your favourite parts - cut-outs on the waist, low necklines to accentuate your bust, or long slits to show off your legs. Pair with minimal jewels or a watch, so that you draw attention to your figure. Finish the look with minimal make-up, including a simple French tip manicure like Lopez. For your footwear, opt for a bejewelled and strappy number.

Yuvika Abrol. Pic Courtesy/ @yuvi.says

Dazzling in off-white

Abrol chooses Lopez's all-white looks as one of her signature styles, particularly her off-white 2019 jewel-studded Ralph and Russo gown with a hat (another look J-Lo pulls off - hats and gowns on the red carpet). The whole outfit, which shows off the star's strong shoulders and curves, screams chic.

Her classy hat-and-gown combo

Mirror the look

"This is easily replicable. White goes with every skin tone and looks classy. Again, choose a fabric that you're comfortable with, and opt for longer lengths to give you the illusion of height," Abrol suggests. To accessorise, add colourful jewellery for a daytime outfit, and switch to diamonds and gold for a
night out.

J-Lo in a headscarf that matches her dress

Heading in the right direction

If not perfectly messy, face-framing locks, Lopez almost always has her hair in a slick ponytail. "It brings out her chiselled facial features," Abrol points out, "She also accessories with scarves a lot." Lopez has given us everyday-styled bandanas and glam scarves. Look at her 2006 VMA red carpet ensemble with a silver blouson mini dress and matching headscarf for proof.

Often with a slick pony, Lopez's hairstyle matches every look. Pics Courtesy/Getty Images

Mirror the look

Abrol notes, "A high ponytail is a great hairstyle for Indian weather and best for bad hair days." She suggests using a hair wand or hair stick to tackle flyaway hair. Part your hair in the middle and then tie it back for a clean and trendy look. "You can use the scarf as a top, or as an accessory by tying it around the handles of your bag or around your wrist, secured with a clean and fancy knot," she adds. Don't contrast prints, but complement the style and colours of the scarf with the rest of your outfit.