Tyla Graces Vogue China’s January 2026 Cover in Malibu Shoot

Grammy-winning South African star Tyla has added another impressive milestone to her fast-rising global career as she appears as the January 2026 cover star of Vogue China. The international fashion magazine revealed that the cover and accompanying editorial were photographed during a stunning seaside shoot in Malibu, California, highlighting both Tyla’s evolving artistry and her growing influence on the world stage.

For the cover image, Tyla delivers a bold and confident fashion moment. She wears a tiny, backless crop top paired with heavily distressed, ripped micro-denim shorts and knee-high black boots, blending edgy street style with high-fashion confidence. The look reflects her fearless approach to both music and fashion, proving once again why she continues to capture global attention.

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In the Vogue China feature, Tyla opens up about her musical journey and the path she has taken to find her authentic sound. “Music that belongs to me” is what Tyla has always been searching for. She explains, “My music is a mixture-many different sounds and genres stitched and cut together into something made for me.” The singer reflects on her early years, revealing that while she was still in high school, she spent countless hours in the studio covering chart-topping songs she loved, all while trying to discover her own voice.

The breakthrough moment came with the creation of her global hit Water. According to Tyla, this was the first time she truly felt connected to her sound. “Now, as you can see, I think my music keeps evolving. I keep drawing more and more inspiration from the influences around me.” Her words highlight an artist who is constantly growing and embracing change.

The editorial features several striking looks. In one image, Tyla stuns in a red string bikini, styled with a delicate red and white beach cover-up, perfectly matching the Malibu seaside setting. In another powerful shot, the Johannesburg-born star is wrapped in a long towel styled like a strapless dress, showcasing effortless elegance.

The shoot also celebrates cultural fusion. East meets West as Tyla appears in a black bodysuit dress with a gold sculptural neck piece, posing beside a motorcycle at dusk. Another standout look sees her wearing a bespoke Chinese qipao dress in white, detailed with red and purple multicolour Asian motifs, paying homage to Vogue China’s heritage.