Avril Lavigne is a multi-platinum singer, songwriter, designer, and philanthropist. A trailblazer in her field she has sold nearly 50 million albums worldwide and has notched eight GRAMMY Award nominations in categories such as “Best New Artist” and “Song of the Year” for “Complicated” and “I’m with You.” In addition, she has received eight Juno Awards, including “Artist of the Year.” Her catalog consists of the septuple platinum “Let Go” (2002), triple-platinum “Under My Skin” (2004), double-platinum “The Best Damn Thing” (2007), gold-selling “Goodbye Lullaby” (2011), gold-selling “Avril Lavigne” (2013), and “Head Above Water “(2019), highlighted by definitive smashes such as “Complicated,” “Sk8er Boi,” “Girlfriend,” “Here’s To Never Growing Up,” and “Head Above Water.” As such, she remains “one of the Soundscan-era’s top-selling artists releasing albums in the U.S.” and “the third bestselling Canadian female artist of all-time.” She earned a spot in the Top 10 of Billboard’s “Best of the 2000s'' chart and holds a Guinness World Record as “the youngest female solo artist to top the UK chart,” while “Girlfriend” emerged as “first music video to reach 100 million views on YouTube.” She has also earned multiple #1‘s around the globe making her an uncompromising force in music and culture.
Dress by Gelareh; Gloves by Majesty Black
How do you describe your style?
My style ranges from baggy tomboy to glam rock to high fashion. My closet is full of Dickies and Vans but also pieces from Vetements, Chrome Hearts, and Vivienne Westwood.
Who are some of your style icons?
Growing up, I spent a lot of time at skateparks with my friends, so my style was heavily influenced by skate culture and my surroundings. I’ve always been a huge fan of music and rock bands so that is why I love to incorporate vintage t-shirts into my look.
What are some of your favorite brands?
I’ve really been loving Vivienne Westwood, Chrome Hearts, Moschino, and Vetements.
Dress by Moschino; Headpiece by Piers Atkinson; Ring by Laruicci
What is your favorite decade of fashion?
I really love the glam rock era of the 1980s to the 1990s and love pulling elements of that into my more modern looks. And, let’s be real, the early 2000s: you can still see me rocking Vans, Dickie, and Dr. Martens.
How were you introduced to fashion?
I created my own look at the beginning on my first album. Then, as the years went on, I was introduced to cool brands and I got to learn about fashion and designers.
Left: Coat by Charles & Ron; Jumpsuit by Akira; Boots by R13, Belt by Vintage; Jewelry by Jungle Tribe Right: Dress by GCDS; Gloves by Majesty Black
Do you have a favorite piece in your wardrobe? If so, what is it?
I will always love Dr. Martens and combat boots because I find them really comfortable. I have always worn black hoodies too. I used to wear them really tight, and now I have been wearing them larger with a pair of combat boots and that’s my go to.
What makes a good outfit?
Something that you feel confident in. Being confident in what you are wearing and feeling good are what makes an outfit shine. Your attitude is your best accessory.
Left: Dress by Gelareh; Gloves by Majesty Black; Heels by Flor de Maria Right: Dress by GCDS; Gloves by Majesty Black
How has your style evolved over the years?
When I first started out, I was wearing a lot of baggy skate pants and skate shoes because I spent so much time at the skate park, and that’s where I drew my influence. As I played with my style the more I brought in more glam elements and feminine styles.
How does your music translate into your style?
My music and my style have always been connected. My music has always been about being real, expressing myself, and not caring what anyone thinks. This is how I have always looked at my style as well.
Dress by Roberto Cavalli; Heels by Hardot; Jewelry by Jungle Tribe
What inspires you?
I am inspired by my life and the real situations I am going through. I am also inspired by my fans who push me to keep creating and taking new risks.
What have you learned about yourself through your career?
I have learned to always have confidence in my decisions and trust my gut. If something doesn’t feel right make sure you stop and question it.
Dress by Roberto Cavalli; Jewelry by Jungle Tribe
If you could give any advice to your younger self just getting started, what would it be?
If I could go back and talk to my 17-year-old self, I’d say, “Just keep being you. It has gotten you this far and it will get you farther than you’ve ever dreamed. I’d remind myself always to trust my instincts and keep writing those honest songs that connect with people.
What has been a defining moment in your career?
Winning a moon man for best new artist at the MTV awards was a defining moment. These days I am still playing onstage in front of thousands, and it’s rewarding and humbling every day. I am so thankful I get to live my dream.
Left: Coat & Skirt by Ashton Michael; Necklace by Alligator Jesus
Right: Coat by Charles & Ron; Jumpsuit by Akira; Belt by Vintage; Jewelry by Jungle Tribe
How has music changed your life?
I owe my whole life to music. I am incredibly grateful for everything it has offered me and everything I have been able to do with it. I could not imagine where I would be without music and my fans who support my music. I really am so grateful to my fans because without their support none of this would have happened.
How has your overall career shaped you as a person?
I started my career at the age of 17, which is really a formative time in someone’s life, and I have never looked back. I owe who I am to the career I have built for myself.
Dress by Moschino; Headpiece by Piers Atkinson; Ring by Laruicci
Dress & Boots by GCDS; Gloves by Majesty Black
CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz + @mikeruiz.one
Photographer: Ben Cope
Talent: Avril Lavigne
Avril’s Creative Manager: Lauren Bates
PR: Full Coverage Communications
Fashion Stylist: Lyn Alyson
Hair Stylist: Alana Schober
Makeup Artist: Alexis Oakley
Photography Assistant: Sveta Buldakova
Market Style Assistant: Kelly Brown
Style Assistant: Trent De Groot
Style Assistant: Rachel Olson
Editorial Assistant: Skylar Elizabeth
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Melia Robinson, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Location: The Culver Hotel