Image via Complex Original
When it comes to our favorite music videos, most of us focus on the finished product. But what we don’t always realize is that behind it was some seriously hard work. Specifically, from the stylist. You won’t always know their name, but you’ll know their work. A good stylist will keep your attention during the video; a great stylist will make sure you’re still talking about it years later. And a stylist like June Ambrose will change the industry.
Known for her groundbreaking work in the music industry and celebrity styling, June has a decades-long career you should know about. With that, we take a look at the six best music videos she’s styled to date.
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Missy Elliott - "The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)"
Directed by Hype Williams and nominated for the 1997 Best Rap Video at the VMAs, Missy Elliott burst onto the scene in this video for her debut album. Aside from great lyrics, who can forget that fish-eye lens and Missy’s epic trash bag costume?
Busta Rhymes - "Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Can See"
For the first single off his second album, this African-themed music video—shot in a NYC municipal building—featured elaborate costumes, makeup, and dance routines, and along with sharing June as a stylist was also directed by Hype Williams. The song was nominated for a Grammy, but lost out to “Men In Black.”
Notorious B.I.G. f/ Mase & Puff Daddy - "Mo Money, Mo Problems"
Posthumously released, “Mo Money, Mo Problems” went on to receive a Grammy nomination. The Hype Williams directed video may be best remembered for the B.I.G. cameo (made from video of past performances)—and, of course, those shiny red jackets.
Mary J. Blige - "Everything"
Visually stunning, director Hype Williams takes us to a deserted island for this single off Mary J. Blige’s third album. Futuristic and ethereal, the video and June’s styling give MJ full reign to belt out this classic ballad.
Jay Z f/ Pharrell - "Change Clothes"
The first single off of The Black Album, the “Change Clothes” video features all the things we love about the early aughts: Jay Z’s attitude, early Pharrell, and, of course, Naomi Campbell. As the song says, that’s so necessary.
Mariah Carey ft/ Fatman Scoop & Jermaine Dupri - "It's Like That"
Responsible for Mariah’s style comeback, June also took the lead on the video for her first single from the chart-topping album The Emancipation of Mimi. Ultimately, the song ended up being nominated for a Grammy, but we’ll always remember the video for the masked party guests (keep your eye out for the Wentworth Miller cameo) and Mariah’s ultra-chic, barely-there dresses.