If you’ve been keeping up with the latest trends in music, fashion, and internet culture, you’ve probably come across the name Doechii. A fast-rising star in the rap and R&B scene, Doechii has been making waves with her unique sound, bold visuals, and unapologetic presence.
However, beyond her undeniable talent, there’s one particular aspect of her look that has sparked curiosity and conversation—her signature face tape.
At first glance, it might seem like an edgy fashion statement, or an aesthetic choice meant to set her apart. But as more fans started noticing it across multiple performances, music videos, and public appearances, it became clear that Doechii’s face tape wasn’t just a passing trend. It was something deeper, more intentional, and possibly symbolic.
The internet quickly picked up on the mystery, with fans speculating about its meaning. Some wondered if it was a reference to a past experience, a symbol of resilience, or a subtle nod to an ongoing movement in the entertainment industry. Others believed it was simply a bold artistic choice, aligning with the artist’s unpredictable and avant-garde approach to her career.
Keep reading as we take a deep dive into who Doechii is, how she rose to fame and the real story behind her face-tape trend.
Who is Doechii?
Born Jaylah Hickmon, Doechii is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter from Tampa, Florida. Like many modern artists, she started her journey on the internet, using platforms like SoundCloud and YouTube to release her early music. Her ability to blend multiple genres—hip-hop, R&B, pop, and even alternative sounds—helped her stand out in a saturated industry.
Even before fame, she displayed a bold, experimental style in both music and fashion. Her early tracks already had a raw, unfiltered energy that would later define her mainstream success.
Photo: Instagram/doechii Doechii’s first major breakthrough came with her 2020 viral hit “Yucky Blucky Fruitcake”, a track that introduced the world to her storytelling ability, versatile flow, and unique personality. The song became a TikTok sensation, with thousands of users creating videos to it, which helped propel her into the limelight.
The track’s quirky yet introspective lyrics resonated with audiences, showing a side of rap that was both playful and deeply personal. The success of this song proved that Doechii wasn’t just another internet sensation—she was an artist with staying power.
In 2022, the songwriter signed with Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE), the same label that launched the careers of Kendrick Lamar, SZA, and Isaiah Rashad. This move solidified her position as a rising star in the industry.
With singles like “Persuasive” and “Crazy,” she showcased even more of her artistic versatility. Her music videos became mini cinematic experiences, packed with experimental visuals, striking imagery, and high-energy performances.
It was around this time that people started noticing a recurring stylistic choice in her public appearances: the face tape.
The Story Behind Doechii’s Face Tape Trend
Doechii’s signature face tape has become one of her most recognizable style choices, frequently appearing in her performances, photoshoots, and even everyday looks. It’s not just a simple strip of adhesive—sometimes it takes the form of two intersecting lines on her cheek, while other times, it’s a bold singular streak across her face.
Over time, what initially seemed like just another avant-garde accessory has evolved into a conversation piece, sparking intrigue and speculation.
Fans and critics alike have attempted to decode the meaning behind Doechii’s face tape, leading to several popular theories:
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A Symbol of Identity and Transformation
Doechii is known for her ability to constantly reinvent herself, both musically and aesthetically. Some believe the face tape represents transformation, adaptability, or the duality of identity—masking and revealing different sides of oneself in an industry that thrives on reinvention.
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A Nod to Performance Art
With her theatrical stage presence and visually striking music videos, some argue that the tape is a deliberate artistic statement. By disrupting conventional beauty standards, the tape forces viewers to engage with her art on a deeper level, much like a piece of performance art.
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A Commentary on the Music Industry
Another theory suggests that the face tape serves as a visual metaphor for the constraints placed on artists by the music industry. It could symbolize the push-and-pull between creative freedom and industry expectations, representing both restriction and rebellion in the ever-demanding world of entertainment.
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An Aesthetic and Branding Choice
Not all artistic choices need a hidden meaning—sometimes, they’re simply about personal style. Some fans believe that Doechii wears the tape simply because she likes how it looks. Much like Billie Eilish’s neon green roots or Lady Gaga’s elaborate costumes, the tape could be a deliberate branding move, setting her apart from the crowd and reinforcing her unique image.
Photo: Instagram/doechii While these interpretations have fueled endless discussions, Doechii herself has provided a much simpler explanation for her unconventional look. In a TikTok video posted in November 2024, Doechii cleared up the speculation with a straightforward answer:
“Okay, so the face tapes are there on purpose because it’s c-nt,” she explained.
For those unfamiliar with the term, “c-nt” in the ballroom and Ger Z lexicon signifies something bold, fierce, and iconic. In other words, the face tape isn’t necessarily a symbol of artistic struggle or industry commentary; it’s just an unapologetic statement of confidence and style.
@iamdoechii_ addressing the facetape 😒
♬ original sound – Doechii
The Impact of the Face Tape Trend on Pop Culture
Regardless of its true meaning, Doechii’s face tape has certainly made an impact on pop culture. It has inspired:
- Fans to recreate the look, leading to viral makeup tutorials and fashion posts.
- Artists and designers experiment with similar styles, bringing tape-based aesthetics into mainstream fashion.
- Conversations about unconventional beauty and the power of personal branding in the entertainment industry.
Fashion-forward celebrities and influencers have even started incorporating face tape into their own looks, proving that Doechii’s influence extends beyond music.
Is the Face Tape Trend Here to Stay?
Like all trends, it’s hard to say whether Doechii’s face tape aesthetic will remain a permanent part of her image or eventually fade away. Some artists evolve beyond their signature styles as they grow, while others make them an iconic part of their legacy.
If history tells us anything, Doechii is an artist who thrives on change. Whether the face tape sticks around or not, one thing is clear: she’s here to leave a lasting impact on music, fashion, and culture.
While the face tape trend is undoubtedly one of Doechii’s most intriguing trademarks, it’s important to recognize that her artistry goes far beyond just aesthetics. She’s a trailblazing musician, a boundary-pushing performer, and a cultural icon in the making.
Photo: Instagram/doechii
