Chappell Roan reveals last-minute wardrobe mishap before SNL performance

Chappell Roan shared how SNL’s seamstress saved her performance by quickly sewing her ripped gown backstage.

Chappell Roan narrowly avoided a performance disaster during her Saturday Night Live debut when her gown suffered a significant wardrobe malfunction. In an interview with Canadian journalist Nardwuar, shared on Dec. 15, Roan recounted the dramatic moment, saying her dress ripped “all the way down the back” just before she went on stage.

With no time to spare, SNL’s in-house seamstress quickly sewed Roan into the sparkling white, jewel-encrusted gown, saving the performance. “I was sewn into the dress because it ripped all the way down,” Roan explained, adding that the incident occurred right before her rendition of “Pink Pony Club.” Despite the chaos backstage, Roan delivered a flawless performance, complete with bold drag-inspired makeup and her signature voluminous red wig.

During the interview, Roan also shared insights into her approach to fashion, noting that her stylist avoids repeating outfits. “I would love to [reuse outfits], but my stylist is like, ‘we gotta keep it moving,’” Roan revealed. Known for her daring and theatrical looks, the singer frequently draws inspiration from drag queens, burlesque performers, and historical fashion.

Her second SNL performance was equally memorable, as she debuted “The Giver” wearing a pink and white gingham bralette paired with matching shorts and cowboy boots. The cohesive country-themed aesthetic extended to her band and backing singers, who donned similar looks.

Roan’s bold style has become her signature, earning her praise for innovative fashion choices. From transforming into the Statue of Liberty at the Governors Ball to donning elaborate costumes designed by Project Runway alum Gunnar Deatherage, Roan continues to cement herself as a pop music trailblazer.