Can’t a man enjoy a milestone birthday in peace?
Canadian rapper Drake was spotted over the weekend enjoying an early birthday dinner in New York, the night before he turned 40.
The downcast expression on the superstar’s face suggested he might’ve already anticipated the internet’s reaction to the photos. Drake strutted out of the restaurant wearing leather pants and an oversized, fringed shawl … the sort of outfit rocker Lenny Kravitz wears to pick up his mail.
He might’ve been aiming for Lenny Kravitz, but to paraphrase one of the many, many fashion critiques on social media, he looked rather more like a Real Housewife embarking on a group cast trip to Aspen.
“He’s dressed like my 60 year old lesbian therapist,” read one viral tweet, while others declared he was giving off “auntie vibes.”
Others joked the star was clearly channelling the “Christian girl autumn” aesthetic, a look that came to prominence on social media in recent years, showing white women looking aspirational while ready for a cosy autumn (pumpkin spice lattes at the ready).
Seems like Drake’s not had much time to check in with the fashion critics on social media, though – his Christian Girl dinner outing kickstarted a huge weekend to mark his 40th birthday.
TMZ reported that the star – who is estimated to have a net worth north of $250 million – hosted more than 400 friends and family members for a huge bash in an exclusive New York club over the weekend.
Guests were reportedly treated to Chanel bags and cash prizes ranging from tens of thousand dollars up $1 million cash prize.
Having “spared no expense,” Drake also surprised guests by booking 90s boy band legends the Backstreet Boys for a surprise performance.
And Drake left the shawl at home – he was spotted arriving at the party in a tuxedo complete with shimmering glittery jacket.