Paper Features Broadway Star Gracie Lawrence
Just in Time standout trades show costumes for off-duty glamour in a fresh editorial spread
Image: Instagram
Paper Magazine’s Instagram feed lit up this week when the publication released a striking new editorial series starring a familiar face to theatergoers: Gracie Lawrence. The post’s simple caption—”who is she!!! thank u @papermagazine 🤍”—prompted an outpouring of fan speculation and admiration. Known for her breakout turn as Valeria in the Broadway-bound musical Just in Time, Lawrence steps off the stage to flaunt a minimal, off-duty aesthetic that’s a far cry from her Tony-nominated red carpet looks. The images were produced by PAPER’s in-house creative team, further signaling the magazine’s growing interest in stage talent. It’s a strategic play for both parties: PAPER taps an audience of theater devotees, and Lawrence gains broader visibility.
Off-duty Chic Takes Center Stage
In the three-image carousel, Lawrence trades her sequined costumes for an ivory button-down and structured wide-leg trousers. Her hair is slicked back, her makeup kept neutral, and her gaze both direct and unguarded—a blend of candid authenticity and editorial polish. These images frame Lawrence as someone equally comfortable between rehearsal mirrors and fashion runways. (Instagram embed: https://www.instagram.com/p/DKw1iYcOV5Z/)
Broadway Credentials And Backstory
At just 27, Lawrence’s résumé already includes ensemble roles in Wicked, a national tour of Carousel, and The Music Man revival. A University of Michigan musical theatre graduate, she earned her first Tony nod at the 78th Annual Tony Awards in the Best Featured Actress in a Musical category. Reflecting on the balance between fun and formality, she recently wrote, “I wanted fun but still beautiful and to feel like I wasn’t taking myself too seriously but also definitely not being goofy—which is a hard balance!” (Instagram embed: https://www.instagram.com/p/DKsxS-Xy60S/)
Style Evolution And Past Editorials
While this PAPER spread marks her first major fashion editorial, Lawrence isn’t new to the camera. Earlier this year, Bustle’s Scene Stealers ran a profile headlined “That’s Tony Award Nominee Gracie Lawrence, thank you very much!” The feature explored her pre-show rituals—smoothie bowls in her dressing room and a pre-curtain playlist—alongside a mini Q&A about dream roles and onstage inspiration. Those vibrant portraits hinted at Lawrence’s editorial aptitude long before PAPER’s minimalist vision. (Instagram embed: https://www.instagram.com/p/DKZ-MiIAzWj/)
Industry Reaction And Fan Buzz
Social feeds erupted with praise as soon as PAPER went live. On Twitter, one fan dubbed her “the Broadway style icon we didn’t know we needed,” while an Instagram comment read simply, “goals level: Gracie.” Casting directors and fashion insiders have taken note, speculating that Lawrence’s growing profile could lead to brand partnerships and cover lines. With theater stars like Cynthia Erivo and Ben Platt already crossing into mainstream fashion, Lawrence emerges as the next in line.
At The Crossroads Of Theater And Fashion
Lawrence’s PAPER debut underscores a shifting cultural landscape: theatrical performers are no longer confined to Playbills and marquees. They’re carving out new spaces in glossy magazines and digital campaigns. By infusing her off-duty look with a hint of stage confidence—precise tailoring meets streetwear ease—Lawrence bridges two worlds. This editorial isn’t just about clothes; it’s a statement that stage talent can drive cultural conversation beyond theater walls.
Gracie Lawrence’s Paper Magazine shoot marks a new chapter in a career that bridges live performance and fashion. As she continues to build her theater résumé and prepare for an upcoming Off-Broadway engagement, her off-duty style will likely become another signature. Whether she’s belting show tunes under a spotlight or posing under studio lights, Lawrence proves she’s equally in command.
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