The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.
Super Bowl 2024: The biggest fashion moments in halftime show history that deserve an instant replay
As Usher’s highly-anticipated Super Bowl 2024 halftime show approaches, here’s a look back at some of the most iconic fashion moments of years past
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Super Bowl game may be football’s biggest night of the year, but it’s the halftime show that has some of fashion’s most show-stopping moments.
Over the years, each Super Bowl halftime show has become bigger and bolder than the last. Ever since New Kids on the Block first performed in 1991 – in matching all-black outfits no less – the halftime show has become synonymous with elaborate sets and glittering costumes.
Last year, Grammy award-winner Rihanna graced the halftime show stage (or football field), joining the ranks of fellow pop stars such as Lady Gaga, Beyonce, and Madonna who all brought down the house before her. But while past performers may have wowed in dazzling garments, Rihanna’s outfit sent shock waves through the crowd and viewers at home, as it revealed her pregnancy.
For the 2024 show, all eyes will be on Usher as he takes the stage. While recent years have featured flashy womenswear get-ups, this year we can expect to see Usher in a patterned suit, a latex set, or the legend’s emblem leather two-piece.
From Rihanna’s baby bump look to Katy Perry’s four outfit changes, and Madonna’s Cleopatra-inspired ensemble, here’s some of the best fashion moments from Super Bowl halftime shows of years past.
Rihanna
Last year, the icon’s ruby red jumpsuit and matching oversised puffer, designed by JW Anderson, was not only unique in its ode to André Leon Talley, but it was telling of what’s to come for the singer too. Rihanna made a not-so-subtle announcement in the skin-tight fabric - she was pregnant, again.
Mary J Blige
In 2022, rap legend Mary J Blige co-headlined the Super Bowl halftime show at SoFi Stadium in California alongside Dr Dre, Kendrick Lamar, Eminem, and Snoop Dogg. The queen of hip hop performed hits “No More Drama” and “Family Affair” while decked out in a mirrored leopard print two-piece set with matching thigh-high boots, all designed by Peter Dundas.
The Weeknd
In 2021, The Weeknd brought the Las Vegas strip to his Super Bowl halftime show. The “Blinding Lights” singer took the stage wearing a custom black and red suit designed by Givenchy’s Matthew Williams that reportedly took over 250 hours to make.
Jennifer Lopez and Shakira
These two pop stars co-headlined the 2020 Super Bowl halftime show. Shakira began the performance in a Swarovski-encrusted red mini dress with fringe trim designed by Peter Dundas.
Then, J-Lo stepped out in an all-black leather look designed by Atelier Versace, before changing into a jewel-encrusted bodysuit also made by the Italian fashion house. To close the show, the two women appeared on stage together wearing complimenting metallic outfits.
Lady Gaga
During her 2017 performance, not only did Lady Gaga begin her set by jumping off the roof of the NRG Stadium, but she also changed her outfit three times.
For her death-defying stunt, the “Born This Way” singer wore a Versace bodysuit adorned with Swarovski crystals, with matching knee-high boots. She then threw on a golden jacket with spikes to play the keytar, before changing into a football-inspired top complete with shoulder pads and micro pants.
Katy Perry
In 2015, Katy Perry made history with perhaps the most elaborate Super Bowl performance ever. The “Firework” singer began her halftime show by entering on an animatronic mechanical lion while wearing a fiery two-piece set by Jeremy Scott.
Perry ultimately achieved a total of four outfit changes – from a 1950s-inspired multi-coloured mini dress, to a zip-up hoodie, to a silver floor-length gown with stars printed on it. And of course, who could forget Left Shark.
Bruno Mars and Beyoncé
While both pop stars each had their turn at headlining the Super Bowl halftime show, it was their surprise appearances at Coldplay’s halftime show that took the (fashion) cake.
Bruno Mars and Beyoncé were special guests at Coldplay’s halftime show in 2016. For his surprise performance, the “Uptown Funk” singer took cues from 1980’s era hip-hop style when he and his 11-piece band coordinated in Versace black leather costumes.
Mars was dressed in slouchy trousers and a black jacket, which featured gold buttons and cuffs emblazoned with the Versace’s signature Greek motif. He paired the leather look with gold chains and Nike sneakers.
Meanwhile, Beyoncé took inspiration from Michael Jackson’s 1993 halftime show performance when she appeared in custom a leather Dsquared2 jacket with gold details. The “Formation” singer then paid homage to the Black Panthers when her background dancers appeared dressed in Black Panther-style berets, black leather, and combat boots.
Michael Jackson
Speaking of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson’s 1993 halftime show look has gone down in fashion history. The “Thriller” singer appeared on stage wearing a military-style black jacket and aviator sunglasses. He then removed the jacket to reveal a white T-shirt and billowing white jacket.
Prince
In 2007, Prince performed at the Super Bowl halftime show in a turquoise suit, orange shirt, and his iconic purple guitar in a downpour no less.
Madonna
Madonna possibly broke the record for the most surprise appearances in one halftime show when she brought out LMFAO, Nicki Minaj, MIA, and Cee Lo Green at the 2012 Super Bowl. But even MIA’s middle finger moment couldn’t upstage Madonna’s three outfit changes.
All three looks worn by Madonna were designed by Ricardo Tisci for Givenchy haute couture. At the start of her performance, the “Like a Virgin” singer emerged in a gold cape embroidered with sequins, studs, and crystals, lined in leopard-print chiffon. She completed the first look with a gold headpiece from Phillip Treacy.
Madonna then changed into another Givenchy mini-dress look with a studded belt, short cape, and custom Miu Miu thigh-thigh black-and-gold boots. She finished her performance with a floor-length Givenchy embellished black coat.
Diana Ross
Before Katy Perry’s four outfit changes, there was Diana Ross. The songstress also achieved a total of four outfit changes during her 12-minute performance at the 1996 Super Bowl halftime show. The “Upside Down” singer began the show wearing a red sequin mini dress, and then changed into a flowing orange and purple gown.
During her third outfit change, while belting “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”, she swapped her floor-length gown for a gold cape. Finally, the diva closed out her set wearing a purple embroidered cat suit.
Shania Twain
The country music star took the Super Bowl halftime show stage in 2003 wearing a bedazzled bra, black mini skirt, and a full-body cape that was cinched at the waist.
Black Eyed Peas
While the Black Eyed Peas’ performance at the 2011 Super Bowl isn’t the most well-received halftime show, the foursome still pulled out all the stops when it came to their flashy, glow-in-the-dark costumes with flickering LEDs, like something out of Tron: Legacy.
Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake
Who can forget the Super Bowl halftime show to end all halftime shows? Jackson donned a leather studded corset from Alexander McQueen during her 2004 Super Bowl performance with Justin Timberlake. However, Jackson’s fashion moment was overshadowed when Timberlake tore off the front of her costume and accidentally exposed her breast, forever launching “nipplegate”. Justice for Janet.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments