Nicki Minaj Looks Totally Different (Still Like A Mega Babe) In Roberto Cavalli Campaign

Nicki Minaj and Roberto Cavalli: one raps about anacondas; the other frequently uses snakeskin as a design motif. Actually, they have more in common than a shared fondness for serpents. They both exude a brash, flamboyant joie de vivre through their work, one that gleefully pushes against polite notions of taste and decorum (while still being irresistibly fun). So, when we heard the pop superstar was appearing in the Italian designer's latest fashion campaign, we imagined all sorts of overly embellished, animal-printed, technicolor Candy Land insanity. Boy, were we (pleasantly!) surprised.

The resulting images are flat-out stunning. Minaj has lately broken from her hot pink wigs and rainbow-colored makeup for a sleeker, more high-fashion look. Here, she goes for a different take on glamour, with her glossy Cleopatra bob and Diana Ross-worthy eyeliner. The clothes, too, suit the rapper's new, made-under image: pleated chiffon gowns, python-accented jackets, and crocheted-lace minidresses. Don't even get us started on the sparkle-encrusted nerd glasses!

Minaj has said that her current toned-down style is just a phase, and these images show that she's still up to her style chameleon ways. She can check Hollywood fabulous, anime doll, and geek chic off her fashion bucket list. Next, we'd love to see her in something by Comme des Garcons. Rei, are you listening?