Tyla said what she said – and she’s not backing down.

The South African it-girl and “Water” hitmaker shut down internet chatter this week after her second weekend Coachella 2025 outfit sparked comparisons to Britney Spears’ iconic 2001 “I’m a Slave 4 U” VMAs moment. Despite what some social media users and fans said about her recent look, Tyla, 22, made it clear: her fit had nothing to do with the influential pop star.

And while both women rocked green bra tops and hip-hugging embellished shorts on stage, similarities in the fits are few. In fact, according to Tyla, there are none.

“Love her, but I just thought the outfit was fly… no inspo,” Tyla wrote in response to a now-deleted tweet/X post. And when another commenter called her a Britney Spears copycat, Tyla did not mince words: “Personally I think you should stfu.”

RELATED CONTENT: Tyla Claps Back At Backlash Over Identifying As ‘Black’ And ‘Colored’ — ‘What Am I Then?’

Let’s get into the details.

Tyla Gives Y2K Vibes At Coachella 2025 But Denies Copying Britney Spears

Tyla’s look featured archive Dolce & Gabbana pieces. She wore a green balconette bra from the brand’s spring 2001 collection, a silver body chain, and denim shorts with green fringe, beading, and safety pin details.

The bra showed off Tyla’s tiny waist, and her low-hung shorts did the same. The ensemble gave Y2K vibes but wasn’t a carbon copy.

2025 Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival - Weekend 2 - Day 1
Source: Christopher Polk / Getty

However, Britney’s legendary VMAs outfit was different. It came with a snake, sparkle, and full-on jungle fantasy. Tyla’s take leaned more futuristic pop princess, especially with her edgy hair, makeup, and modern styling.

US-MTV AWARDS-SPEARS SNAKE
TIMOTHY A. CLARY

The truth is we’re allowed to love both. But saying Tyla “copied” feels like a reach – and discredits her artistry and fashion direction.

Tyla Said What She Said – Lets Move On

And let’s not forget that Tyla has previously shown love for the early 2000s style. She wore a vintage Roberto Cavalli in tribute to Aaliyah on the 2024 MTV European Music Awards red carpet.

MTV EMAs 2024 - Roaming Arrivals
Source: Jeff Kravitz / Getty

The international sensation often mixes archive looks with cultural nods. But Tyla is also carving her own lane. The 23-year-old has been serving body, giving what needs to be given, and snatching edges, all while taking over the music world.

So, let’s give credit where its due. Tyla said what she said, and both looks created moments that had people talking.

Now let’s move on.

RELATED CONTENT: Tyla Says She’s ‘Very Single’ Amid Chris Brown Dating Rumors