Cardi B Wore a Filipino Designer for Her "Little Miss Drama" Tour

Global rap superstar Cardi B is presently bringing the drama worldwide with her Little Miss Drama World Tour.

At her show's New York City stop, Cardi stepped out for a Latin music-inspired number in an ensemble fully embellished with rhinestones and appliques. The glittering blue look was designed by Rian Fernandez, a Filipino couturier who was handpicked by Cardi's team.

In an exclusive chat with Preview, he divulges how the look came to life before the rapper hit the stage.

To perform her 2019 track "Taki Taki," Cardi glistened in an aquamarine jumpsuit that featured crystallized floral appliques and figure-sculpting sheer panels. Glittering fringe swayed and swept the floor as the hip hop star busted move after move. Rian says the piece was inspired by the vibrant hues of a Latin fiesta and aims to embody "a celebration of culture, movement, and spirit."

"I envisioned something radiant and full of life, echoing the atmosphere of a bustling street market or a Caribbean festival," says the designer. "It required a balance of structure and fluidity, with carefully placed embellishments and detailed handwork to enhance both texture and stage presence."

He details that the process of crafting the look took over a month, which began when he was tapped by Cardi's creative team. "From there, I developed a design proposal that aligned with the concept while staying true to my design identity," he shares.

Rian has made intricate hand-embroidered beading a trademark, so it was imperative to incorporate it into Cardi's bespoke look. Combined with "dimensional detailing" and "a strong sense of femininity and drama," he conceived an ensemble with texture, movement, and a story to tell.

"That identity comes through in the custom beadwork and three-dimensional floral elements, which were all carefully handcrafted to create depth and visual impact," he expresses.

Actualizing the outfit didn't come without its challenges, one of which was the logistical constraints involved in dressing a foreign celebrity. At the time, Rian was in the Philippines attending to pageant clients, so he couldn't personally take Cardi's measurements. "Creating a fully crystallized jumpsuit that fits perfectly—without ever seeing the client in person—required precision, trust in the process, and strong coordination with her team," Rian says.

In the end, the piece thankfully fit like a glove despite the constraints. "We were able to achieve a fit that feels almost like a second skin," he proudly states.

As a Filipino who has dressed high-profile personalities in the past, creating a look for someone like Cardi B was immensely special. "Seeing the piece come to life on such a global stage is truly fulfilling," Rian muses. "It deepens my commitment to my craft and inspires me to continue creating with intention and sincerity."

Congrats on the milestone, Rian!