STOP THE VIRGENS Part II: Christian Joy

Giant monster claw. Lotus flower eyes. Lots of latex.

The singular, eccentric vision of New York-based costume designer Christian Joy.

Since forming over a decade ago, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs have continually broken preconceptions of what their initial garage rock origins implied, whether experimenting in the studio with acoustic instrumentation (Show Your Bones), raw live recording (Is Is EP) or forays into electronic production (It’s Blitz!). Similarly, the trio’s ferocious performances have continually evolved over the years, anchored by Karen’s theatrical presence and ‘punk-meets-glitter-glam’ look.

Part one of our introduction to the glam team behind STOP THE VIRGENS aimed to shed light on the intimate ties between Karen and her collaborators. This time ’round we felt a special tribute was necessary to Karen’s long term partnership with friend and costume designer Christian Joy. There since her humble beginnings, Joy has grown side-by-side with the YYYs, reflecting their DIY approach to art.

‘I’m influenced by the music and she’s influenced by the costume. It’s very natural. When I started making clothes, I didn’t even know what I was doing, and that reflected the raw energy of the first EP’

Now renowned for her signature style, Joy’s creative partnership with Karen has culminated in the psychedelic costumes for STOP THE VIRGENS, with highlights including giant monster claws, lotus flower eyes and a horn shaped microphone!

Check out this clip of Christian discussing her relationship with Karen and their creative process, and whilst you’re here, we’ve also put together some of our favourite YYYs costumes over the years, from mariachi influenced jackets to latex bodysuits….

Whitecanvas + Christian Joy/Karen O Yeah Yeah Yeahs | Weston. James from Weston. James on Vimeo.

Wilson Lee - The Creators Project San Francisco 2012

2009 Nick Zinner – circa It’s Blitz!

2008 Jon Caramanica circa Native Korean Rock

2007 Kirstie Shanley – circa Is Is EP

2006 Nick Zinner circa Show Your Bones