Climbing in Heels with Rachel Zoe: Early Release Episode - Grammys Fashion 2025
Release Date: February 4, 2025
In this exclusive early release episode of "Climbing in Heels," Rachel Zoe teams up with her producer, Mary Elizabeth, to dissect and celebrate the dazzling fashion showcased at the Grammys 2025. The episode delves deep into the sartorial choices of some of the music industry's most influential women, offering listeners an insider's perspective on red carpet trends, iconic looks, and the evolving landscape of Grammy fashion.
Setting the Stage: An Honest Take on the Grammys
Rachel Zoe opens the conversation with an admission of her complex relationship with the Grammys red carpet. “[00:29] Rachel Zoe: This is what you do when you have high standards and fancy all the fancy things like a Dior saddle bag or that diamond tennis bracelet...”
Mary Elizabeth swiftly brings honesty to the forefront, addressing the pressure and expectations that come with Grammy appearances. “[02:37] Mary Elizabeth: Music's biggest night, the Grammys. I think we should kick this off by being really honest.”
Rachel echoes these sentiments, revealing her personal struggles and PTSD related to the event. “[03:03] Rachel Zoe: I think it's PTSD. But you typically don't have the most...”
Queen Bee: Beyoncé’s Triumphant Return
A significant portion of the discussion centers around Beyoncé, who not only graces the stage but also takes home the coveted Album of the Year award. “[03:38] Rachel Zoe: Listen, I am a huge Beyoncé fan...”
Mary Elizabeth highlights Beyoncé's dominance and the significance of her recent win. “[04:49] Rachel Zoe: That's the whole thing right now... she finally won album of the year.”
The duo doesn't shy away from critiquing minor mishaps, such as Beyoncé's slight wardrobe malfunction, demonstrating their commitment to honest commentary. “[05:30] Rachel Zoe: Okay.”
Despite these challenges, Rachel praises Beyoncé's resilience and deserved accolades. “[06:01] Rachel Zoe: This woman has deserved to win album of the year at some point over the course of her career...”
Kelsea Ballerini: Best Dressed with Class and Elegance
Kelsea Ballerini emerges as Rachel’s top pick for Best Dressed at the Grammys. “[06:34] Rachel Zoe: I have to say I've had the good fortune of meeting her on many occasions...”
The discussion highlights Kelsea’s choice of Tamara Ralph designs, emphasizing the blend of glamour and sophistication. “[07:10] Rachel Zoe: It did all the things that everyone wants to see on a red carpet at the Grammys...”
Rachel and Mary Elizabeth commend the styling, from Chris Appleton’s impeccable hair to the elegant jewelry curated by friends Rob and Muriel. “[07:10] Rachel Zoe: I loved this look... she looks so happy and she's with her cutie boyfriend.”
Sabrina Carpenter and Taylor Swift: Pop Princesses on the Red Carpet
Moving forward, the conversation shifts to younger talents like Sabrina Carpenter and Taylor Swift. Sabrina's playful yet chic J.W. Anderson ensemble garners affection from Rachel. “[09:05] Rachel Zoe: Yes. She did a performance that was hilariously cute and funny...”
Taylor Swift’s vibrant look and her absence of wins this year spark a nuanced discussion. “[14:32] Rachel Zoe: She's in her eyes, dancing around...”
Despite the lack of awards, Taylor's presence and happiness on the carpet remain noteworthy. “[14:41] Mary Elizabeth: She did not win nothing... but she was having a great time.”
Olivia Rodrigo and Kacey Musgraves: Emerging Icons with Distinct Styles
Olivia Rodrigo's vintage Gianni Versace dress receives high praise for its flawless construction and timeless appeal. “[16:04] Rachel Zoe: I really loved this look... she looked flawless.”
Kacey Musgraves’ pared-down Ralph Lauren attire aligns with her album's folky and simplistic aesthetic. “[25:31] Rachel Zoe: I did love this collection...”
The episode underscores how both artists use fashion to embody their musical personas, enhancing their presence on the red carpet.
Charli XCX and Chappell Roan: Bold and Theatrical Statements
Charli XCX and Chappell Roan stand out with their avant-garde fashion choices. Charli’s Jean Paul Gaultier ensemble is lauded for its couture edge, while Chappell Roan’s thematic costumes embody her artistic vision. “[27:45] Rachel Zoe: I listen, I loved Charli XCX...”
Mary Elizabeth admires Chappell’s ability to transform herself, likening her red carpet presence to a personal Met Gala. “[29:51] Mary Elizabeth: She decides the character she wants to become and she, like, goes for it.”
Lady Gaga: The Eternal Chameleon
Lady Gaga’s performance with Bruno Mars is dissected with both admiration and critique. “[31:04] Rachel Zoe: Okay. Can I just say.”
Rachel expresses a personal preference for Gaga’s more natural look, appreciating her vocal prowess over her extravagant costumes. “[32:12] Rachel Zoe: For me, that took away a little bit...”
Mary Elizabeth and Rachel agree on Gaga’s ability to reinvent herself while maintaining an undeniable presence. “[34:01] Rachel Zoe: It's insane.”
Sheryl Crow and Cardi B: Timeless Glamour Meets Modern Edge
Sheryl Crow’s effortless style receives high praise, highlighting her timeless beauty and understated glamour. “[35:50] Mary Elizabeth: So the show opened with a bunch of artists that were playing Randy Newman's I Love LA...”
Cardi B’s Roberto Cavalli ensemble is celebrated for its boldness and elegance, cementing her status as a standout personality on the red carpet. “[34:58] Rachel Zoe: Yeah. That looks like archival Roberto Cavalli...”
Trends and Takeaways: The Step Cut and Beyond
A notable trend discussed is the emergence of the "step cut" hairstyle, characterized by unblended, stepped bangs. “[37:34] Mary Elizabeth: But there's a hair trend going around and I guess it's called the step cut.”
Rachel shares her reservations about the trend, advocating for natural beauty and expressing hope that it gains traction among models at Fashion Week rather than mainstream adoption. “[40:31] Rachel Zoe: I'd prefer that my children don't choose to do it...”
Final Thoughts: Charity and Celebratory Fashion
The episode concludes with reflections on the Grammys' charitable efforts, particularly their support for wildfire relief. Rachel emphasizes the importance of integrating charity into major events. “[42:24] Rachel Zoe: Thanks so much for joining us for our quick Grammy fashion recap...”
Mary Elizabeth and Rachel agree that the Grammys successfully balanced celebration with philanthropy, setting a positive precedent for future award shows.
Concluding Remarks
Rachel Zoe wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to stay tuned for more red carpet insights and to follow the show on various platforms. “[42:24] Rachel Zoe: Thank you so much for listening, everyone to Climbing in Heels...”
This episode of "Climbing in Heels" offers a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of Grammy 2025 fashion, blending expert analysis with personal anecdotes. For aspiring fashion enthusiasts and industry insiders alike, Rachel Zoe and Mary Elizabeth provide invaluable perspectives on the intersection of style, personality, and performance on one of music's most glamorous nights.