Shakira Performs at 2026 World Cup Halftime in Custom Roberto Cavalli

Shakira took the stage at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey today for the 2026 World Cup's first-ever halftime performance, wearing a custom Roberto Cavalli design crafted by Creative Director Fausto Puglisi. The vibrant look, inspired by Mexico City's La Condesa neighborhood, featured a plunging, criss-crossing neckline, side cutouts, and a dynamic "tagliatelle" skirt made from fabric strips, adorned with over 200,000 hand-applied Swarovski crystals over 120 hours. Shakira shared with Vogue that she wanted the ensemble to be "strong, joyful, and celebratory," reflecting the performance's energy and the global occasion. She also explained that the orange sunset and bright pink color palette was her suggestion Source.

The performance is a full-circle moment for Shakira, who also performed at the 2010 World Cup closing ceremony in a neon Cavalli design. She stated that this year's look pays "tribute to the past and looking toward the future," connecting her long history with the event. Puglisi, Shakira's longtime friend, emphasized his understanding of her movement and performance needs, ensuring the outfit offered both comfort and confidence on stage. This high-profile appearance at a global sporting event highlights the synergy between music, fashion, and international spectacle.

Moving forward, expect to see the influence of this standout design on Fall/Winter 2026 trends, particularly in occasion wear and accessories. Puglisi’s Resort 2025 collection, which initially featured the silhouette adapted for Shakira, provides a glimpse into the brand’s direction. The use of vibrant color palettes and intricate embellishments, as seen in Shakira's dazzling outfit, may inspire future collections. Also, collaborations between major artists and luxury brands for global events will likely continue to evolve, setting new benchmarks for integrated entertainment and fashion showcases.