Tour Fashion Previews: Madonna in Bloody Couture, Lady Gaga Will Sparkle in Armani
Two of the world’s biggest pop superstars, Madonna and Lady Gaga, are getting ready to take to the road this spring and summer, and we’re getting early glimpses into what their tour wardrobes may look like.
A few days ago, Madge spoke to WWD – a rare interview in this largely private MDNA era – and she winkingly hinted that all the injuries she’s been accumulating during rehearsals will carry a massive payoff for her audience. “I take these clothes off, and I’m covered in bruises. It’s very sexy,” she laughed.”
Could she be revisiting the aesthetics of her hardcore, bloodied American Life era (or its precursor: the fantastically brutal “Die Another Day” clip)? In any case, as we reported last week, couturier Jean Paul Gaultier will be reuniting with the singer once more, so an over-the-top spectacle is guaranteed. The icon will also work with Givenchy’s Riccardo Tisci (who designed her 2008 “Sticky & Sweet” tour looks, and elements of her Superbowl looks) and her own designer, Arianne Phillips, who also costumed W.E. and creative-directs Madonna’s upcoming “Truth or Dare” clothing line. As for the show’s couture, “[Gaultier is] kind of godfathering the costumes for a section of my show, with all my dancers. I’m really happy he’s doing it, because he’s such a genius,” she said.
Meanwhile, Lady Gaga is pairing up with Giorgio Armani for her Born This Way Ball tour, which kicks off later this month in Seoul. Today, WWD describes in detail some of the key looks to be included, and they seem to reflect a slightly more sophisticated take on the singer’s trademark sci-fi glam. Expect futuristic details: gloves with mirrored nail tips, Plexiglas bodices, guitars with Swarovski crystals and studs, and tons of spikes and latex are all confirmed to be in the mix.