Irina Shayk’s recent runway appearance for Dolce & Gabbana in Milan demonstrated how iconic fashion can transcend time and geography. The Russian supermodel took inspiration from none other than pop culture icon Madonna, sporting a striking cone bra bustier reminiscent of the singer’s celebrated look during the 1990s. Dressed elegantly in a tailored black blazer and trousers, Shayk managed to evoke nostalgia while also reinterpreting it for contemporary audiences. This fusion of past and present highlights the cyclical nature of fashion, where styles often resurrect, adapt, and take on new meanings.
Madonna has long been a trendsetter, boldly challenging fashion norms. Designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana chose her as the muse for their spring/summer 2025 collection, further solidifying her role in shaping fashion narratives. In the front row, Madonna, now 66, exuded glamour with a dramatic long black veil and a complementary black maxi dress, adorned with fishnet stockings that hinted at her rebellious past. The inclusion of religious motifs and conical designs in the runway collection not only paid homage to the ‘Material Girl’ but also showcased how her creative spirit continues to influence modern designers. This melding of artistry reflects not just a longing for past aesthetics but a celebration of how they can coexist within today’s frameworks.
The cone bra, a hallmark of Madonna’s fashion legacy, marked a significant moment when she first donned it during her Blond Ambition tour. This daring style statement challenged traditional femininity and became a symbol of empowerment for many women. Today, it has returned, embraced by contemporary celebrities such as Kylie Jenner, Bella Hadid, and Kourtney Kardashian, who all showcased their interpretations of the cone bra in 2021. Even musical artists like Doja Cat and Cardi B have joined the trend, each crafting their narratives around the iconic piece, ensuring that Madonna’s influence remains alive across different mediums. Such revival illustrates how fashion not only serves as a reflection of culture but acts as a dialogue between generations of artists.
As models strut down runways replete with religious themes and innovative designs, it’s evident that the legacies of Madonna and her contemporaries are far from settled dust. Instead, they flourish in new contexts, allowing modern artists to explore their artistic identities through influences of the past. Fashion shows such as the one orchestrated by Dolce & Gabbana reimagine nostalgia for a new generation, reminding us that style is truly eternal. In a world constantly navigating through change, these icon-inspired features ensure that the stories of fashion icons are woven into the fabric of today’s culture, influencing both the runway and street style. Irina Shayk’s audacious tribute serves as an invigorating reminder of the power of fashion history and its globalization, affirming that as trends cycle through eras, they bring with them the empowering spirit of those who have worn them before.