Aaliyah Featured in the Iconic Women of Music Calendar 2000
The Women of Music Calendar 2000 remains one of the most unforgettable and visionary projects at the intersection of fashion, music, and art. Produced by creative visionary Sebastian, now Editor and Creative Director of Fashion Sizzle, and fsnyfw the calendar celebrated some of the most influential women who were redefining the sound, style, and spirit of a generation. Among its standout features was the late, great Aaliyah, whose inclusion gave the calendar both depth and star power.
Aaliyah’s image in the calendar was nothing short of striking — she appeared wearing a bold red jumpsuit paired with matching red stockings and a dramatic red headwrap. The photo, originally shot for W Magazine in 1999 by Michael Thompson captured her signature blend of sensuality, mystery, and confidence. It was the perfect representation of the young star who effortlessly fused streetwear with sophistication, inspiring a new wave of fashion that continues to influence artists and designers today.
The connection between Aaliyah and Sebastian came through Fatima Robinson, Aaliyah’s long-time choreographer and creative collaborator. At the time, Aaliyah was filming a movie in Canada and couldn’t make it to the official calendar shoot. However, she was determined to be part of the project and gave her personal approval for Sebastian to use the W Magazine image. This gesture reflected her respect for the project and her understanding of its cultural significance — a tribute to women of music who were breaking barriers and shaping the new millennium.
The Women of Music Calendar 2000 was more than just a visual collection — it was a cultural moment. Alongside Aaliyah, it featured other groundbreaking artists such as Eve, Missy Elliott, Mýa, and Lauryn Hill, each representing a unique sound and style that defined late-’90s and early-2000s music. The calendar celebrated female artistry in all its forms — from hip-hop and R&B to soul and pop — showing that women were not just participating in the industry but leading it.
The creative direction by Sebastian and the production by Fashion Sizzle brought high-fashion energy into the music world. Every image told a story, merging glamour, authenticity, and strength. The Women of Music Calendar 2000 captured the essence of an era when music and fashion were inseparable, and when women like Aaliyah were boldly shaping what both would look like in the new millennium.
Aaliyah’s inclusion, even from afar, symbolized her commitment to artistic excellence and her influence as a cultural icon. The red ensemble she wore represented her fiery spirit and timeless elegance — a perfect visual metaphor for her impact on music, fashion, and the hearts of fans worldwide.
Two decades later, the Women of Music Calendar 2000 now a collector’s item still stands as a testament to the creative brilliance of its contributors and to the lasting power of women who continue to inspire through music and style. It remains an iconic piece of pop culture history — one where Aaliyah’s legacy shines eternally bright.
