The flair and fashion of Nicki Minaj (November 20, 2012)

Social media has morphed talented musicians into superstars, and Nicki Minaj is not exception. Discovered thanks to her MySpace profile, the woman often clad in brightly colored and outlandish wigs and outfits built her career through mixtapes and collaborations with high-profile artists like T.I. and Lil Wayne. Still, the Trinidadian-born rapper has a style and personality all her own.

With a background in performing arts and a spot on the Young Money record label, Minaj rose to fame with the release of her debut album, "Pink Friday," in November 2010. It quickly ascended the Billboard 200, hit the top spot on the charts and was the catalyst for Minaj having seven singles on the Hot 100 at the same time. The sophomore follow-up, "Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded" bowed in April 2012 and has sold more than a million copies worldwide.

Minaj has not only crisscrossed the globe in support of her albums, she has done so with a flair for fashion. Her colorful costumes and cosmetics are a recognized part of her persona, and she cites Alexander McQueen and Christian Louboutin as two of her favorite designers. Minaj, however, has stated in various interviews she makes a conscious decision to 'tone down the sexiness' so it won't send the wrong message to young girls.

Recognized for an animated rapping style, her use of alter egos and comic accents, Minaj has done TV and voice work, including for the 2012 movie "Ice Age: Continental Drift." She is currently serving as a judge for the 12th season of FOX stalwart "American Idol" alongside Keith Urban, Mariah Carey and Randy Jackson.