During Milan Fashion Week, the renowned Russian model Irina Shayk caught the eyes of fashion aficionados and critics alike with a striking homage to pop icon Madonna. While strutting down the runway for Dolce & Gabbana, Shayk adopted an unmistakable aesthetic reminiscent of Madonna’s infamous “Material Girl” phase. At the age of 38, Shayk didn’t shy away from showcasing a cone bra bustier—a nod to Madonna’s memorable moments during the Blond Ambition tour in the early 1990s. The ensemble was impeccably styled with a tailored black blazer and sleek trousers, amplifying the edgy yet glamorous atmosphere that the show sought to convey.
Madonna’s role as a muse for Dolce & Gabbana during their spring/summer 2025 collection underscores her enduring influence in the fashion world. The designers, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, have long looked to the pop superstar for inspiration, particularly in their interpretations of femininity and strength. Shayk’s cone bra bustier was not merely a costume but a powerful statement about the fashionable intersection between pop culture and high fashion. The blond wig that Shayk wore, which cleverly concealed her natural brunette locks, further cemented the connection to Madonna’s iconic look from her peak years.
The star-studded front row was a spectacle unto itself. Madonna herself was in attendance, signifying her relevance in both the music and fashion industries even at 66. Her choice of attire—a grand black veil paired with a flowing maxi dress, accessorized with fishnet stockings and a striking gold crown—was an ethereal addition to the celebration of her legacy. As she wore the diamond necklace from Alta Gioielleria, it was evident that even as trends evolve, Madonna’s audacious style choices remain at the forefront of fashion discussions.
Madonna’s cone bra, initially made famous during her 1990 tour, is a piece that continues to resonate within contemporary fashion. This year, the trend has seen a resurgence, with celebrities like Kylie Jenner, Bella Hadid, and Kourtney Kardashian reimagining the conical silhouette for a new generation. The cone-shaped design not only serves as a fashion statement but also sparks conversations about body positivity and self-expression, themes that Madonna herself has long championed.
The cone bra’s revival is not confined to just a few celebrities; it has extended its influence to the newer crop of artists and their kin. For instance, Madonna’s daughter, Lourdes Leon, paid homage to her mother by embracing a similar cone-shaped dress at the 2023 Grammys. The cyclical nature of fashion underscores how iconic designs can transcend time, continually inspiring new interpretations and styles.
Irina Shayk’s powerful runway performance for Dolce & Gabbana certainly did more than just showcase a collection; it celebrated the undying legacy of Madonna as a trendsetter and cultural icon. The interplay between music and fashion shown at this event illustrates the dynamic evolution of style and its ability to inspire and empower across generations. As the fashion world continues to draw from its rich past, the cone bra remains at the forefront, a permanent fixture echoing the boldness and vision of icons like Madonna.