How Doechii became a trailblazer in music and fashion: the rise of a modern icon
Doechii is one of the hottest names in Hollywood right now - if you haven't heard of her, here's what you need to know.
Born Jaylah Hickmon, the American rapper is not only making her mark in the music industry but is also redefining fashion norms for a new generation of self-expression.
Since her debut EP, “Oh the Places You’ll Go”, in 2020, Doechii has carved out a unique niche by fusing the raw power of hip hop with infectious melodies and impressive lyrical artistry.
The breakthrough moment came in 2021 with the viral hit “Yucky Blucky Fruitcake”, which exploded on TikTok, propelling her into the limelight and securing her a place among today’s most notable artists.
Following this success, Doechii signed with Top Dawg Entertainment in a joint venture with Capitol Records, leading to the release of her second EP, “she / her / black bitch”, in 2022.
Since then, she has been on an upward trajectory, earning the nickname “Swamp Princess” as a nod to her larger-than-life personality and multifaceted talent.
In 2024, Doechii was undeniably busy, notably performing to thousands as she headlined various music festivals, each show showcasing her dynamic stage presence and ability to connect with audiences.
Her first full-length album, “Alligator Bites Never Heal”, solidified her status further, introducing fans to a blend of intricate storytelling and heightened musicality.
Her recent singles, “What It Is (Block Boy)” and “Denial is a River”, have only added to her impressive repertoire, continuing to scale the charts with passionate momentum.
As the world turned its gaze towards the 2025 Grammy Awards, Doechii made history by winning the coveted award for Best Rap Album.
Her emotional acceptance speech resonated with many, beginning with a touching reminder of the rarity of female winners in this category.
“This category was introduced in 1989, and two women have won,” she noted, only to correct herself with impactful pride, “Three women have won - Lauryn Hill, Cardi B, and Doechii!”
But Doechii is not just about the music. Her choice of attire for the 67th Annual Grammy Awards was nothing short of remarkable.
She graced the red carpet in a stunning Thom Browne ensemble, featuring an off-the-shoulder corset suit dress that boasted exaggerated hips, a crisp white shirt, and a sharp grey tie.
This striking look was a perfect representation of a classic yet subversive style - a visual nod to the dramatic evolution of fashion since the early 2000s.
This ensemble not only encapsulated her unique personal style but also acknowledged a cultural shift away from traditional norms, showcasing the bold statements that today’s artists are making.
While her red carpet look was turning heads, it was during her acceptance speech that Doechii truly captured the hearts of many.
Dressed in yet another innovative Thom Browne creation - a tailored, cropped grey jacket complete with a dramatically structured pair of tiered balloon pants - she embraced the spotlight to deliver a powerful message.
“So many black women out there are watching me right now and I want to tell you … Don’t allow anybody to project any stereotypes on you, that tell you that you can’t be here, that you’re too dark, or that you’re not smart enough or that you’re too dramatic or you’re too loud,” she proclaimed.
“You are exactly who you need to be, to be right where you are, and I am a testimony.”
2025 truly appears to be Doechii's year as she continues to redefine the landscapes of both the music industry and the fashion scene.