That's demure for her! Nicki Minaj ditches outrageous attire for sophisticated ensemble at hip-hop awards in NYC

She has garnered attention as the only pop star to give Lady GaGa a run for her money in the wardrobe department.

But on Thursday, rapper Nicki Minaj made a rare appearance in a relatively demure outfit as she accepted at the 2013 BMI R&B/Hip-Hop Awards at Hammersmith Ballroom in New York City.

Although it was still an outfit that most people wouldn't feel comfortable leaving the house in, Nicki appeared to be much smarter than usual.

Different look: Nicki Minaj tried a new style at the 2013 BMI R&B/Hip-Hop Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in NYC on Thursday

Wearing her usually strange hair style in a formal center parting, the 30-year-old rapper wore a black and gold dress, that featured a pleated detail.
Joining Nicki at the event were stars such as rapper Trina and former X Factor judge L.A. Reid.

Legendary rapper MC Hammer also attended, but left his trademark harem pants at home.

Serious artist look: Nicki was at the bash to accept an award for her hit Starships produced by Lady Gaga collaborator RedOne

Paying off: Nicki was awarded for her efforts on the night, and it appears she dressed accordingly

Perhaps Nicki was taking time out of her gaudy stage attire to be recognised as a serious musican for the track - which she co-wrote herself with Lady GaGa collaborator RedOne.

Whatever the case, it was certainly a different side to the rapper who is known for shocking with her costumes.

The rapper recently invented her own version of 'throwback thursday' which she dubbed 'thong thursday'.

Smartening up her act? Nicki will feature on the next album by controversial singer Chris Brown

Special guests: Rapper Trina joined Nicki Minaj at the event in New York City

Fashionista Nicki also delighted her 16.8 million Twitter followers by posting another sexy image of herself striking a sexy pose inside a kitchen standing next to an opened-up refrigerator, just last month.

Last month, the rapper was revealed to be one of the stars who will be appear on Chris Brown's latest album.

Chris posted a message to his Twitter page about his new record and it seems that Nicki will be featuring alongside his ex-girlfriend Rihanna.

The singer posted: New album features @NICKIMINAJ, @rihanna, @KELLYROWLAND, @wizkhalifa, @bobatl and more surprises to come. X'

Guests: Former X Factor judge LA Reid was joined by legendary rapper MC Hammer on the night

Making an entrance: Both Bridget Kelly and Justine Skye stood out on the red carpet as they arrived at the event