During the halftime show at the New York New Jersey stadium on 19/7, Shakira performed "Dai Dai" in a pink and yellow "sunset glow" printed dress. The design was inspired by the late Roberto Cavalli's signature Ray of Gold motif.

The ensemble featured a deep V-neck bodysuit, cut out at the sides, with a tie-back halter neck. It was paired with a long skirt, created using the moulage technique from flowing chiffon strips that moved with her every step. According to the fashion house, the entire design was embroidered with fringed satin chiffon strips and hand-embellished with over 200,000 Swarovski crystals. The bodysuit alone required over 120 hours of embroidery over two weeks to complete. Creative director Fausto Puglisi designed the piece.

Shakira performs during halftime of the 2026 World Cup final. Photo: AFP

Puglisi told Pagesix, "I have always been captivated by the energy of Miami Beach and Mexico City. A colorful building in the La Condesa neighborhood inspired this outfit."

He also aimed for the dress to combine Latin soul music, Caribbean rhythms, and a playful, sleek, and sensual aesthetic. "Together, we created something bold, emotional, and vibrant, like a sunset on Miami Beach, full of freedom," he stated.

Sketch of Shakira's 2026 World Cup dress design. Photo: Roberto Cavalli

The design also brought to mind Shakira's style at the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where she performed "Waka Waka". At that time, both outfits—a neon crop top with a fringed silk skirt at the closing ceremony and a black and white tribal print ensemble at the opening ceremony—were designed by Roberto Cavalli when he was still leading the brand. The designer passed away in 4/2024, with Fausto Puglisi taking over as creative director from 2020.

Shakira shared with Vogue that the outfit represents a continuation between her 2010 World Cup performance and this year's tournament. "It was a full-circle moment. The colors are similar. We are honoring the past and looking towards the future," she said.

Shakira wears Roberto Cavalli at the 2010 World Cup. The design shares a similar style with this year's outfit. Photo: AFP

Shakira is known as the "Queen of World Cup music", being the only singer to perform at the football tournament four times. The Colombian vocalist, born in 1977, is also called the "Queen of Latin music" for her fiery, energetic dance moves. Throughout her career, she has won numerous prestigious music awards, with many songs setting Guinness records. After separating from former footballer Gerard Pique in 2022, she focused on raising her two sons.

Hoa Mi (According to WWD, Pagesix)