When Shakira needed a show-stopping look for the official song of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the creative team didn't have the luxury of a proper studio or weeks of planning. Instead, they turned a Miami hotel room into an emergency workshop, working around the clock to deliver the outfit for the 'Dai Dai' music video.
The story begins in Medellín, where designers Gunnar Deatherage, Christopher Minafo, and Katie Mamie were enjoying a well-deserved vacation. An urgent call from the Colombian superstar's camp changed everything. Without hesitation, the trio boarded a direct flight to Miami, knowing they had just four days to create not only Shakira's main look but also six additional costumes for her backup dancers.
From Vacation to All-Nighters
Once in Miami, the team faced an immediate challenge: there was no sewing workshop available. Their hotel room became the epicenter of a high-stakes creative operation. Materials were rushed from across the city, and every surface was covered with leather, beads, and thread. Gunnar Deatherage took the lead on the complex construction, relying on meticulous hand-crochet techniques over a leather base, accented with turquoise beads. He later joked that the weaving classes he used to get in trouble for in school ended up defining his professional success alongside one of the world's biggest pop stars.
The design's complexity required close collaboration with stylist Nicholas to create a bra base with hand-embroidered appliqués. The goal was stability: Shakira needed to move freely during the choreography without worrying about her outfit. The final two-piece construction prioritizes mobility and visual impact, using jade and blue tones that pop in every frame.
The team worked through two consecutive nights without sleep, delivering the project just before the dress rehearsal. It was a race against time that showcased how passion and technique can overcome even the most absurd constraints.
This isn't the first time Shakira's fashion choices have sparked conversation. The 'Dai Dai' video itself contains hidden nods to her past, and the outfit has already become one of the most talked-about elements of the upcoming World Cup. It's a brilliant example of how high-end fashion and sports spectacle can create viral moments that transcend the screen.
For Shakira, who has openly discussed balancing career and motherhood, this project is another testament to her relentless work ethic. The 'Dai Dai' look is more than just a costume—it's a symbol of what can be achieved when creativity meets urgency.
