Madonna, the undisputed Queen of Pop, set the stage for Dolce & Gabbana's spring/summer 2025 fashion show during Milan Fashion Week on Saturday, arriving in a black lace veil that shrouded her entire body. The “Vogue” singer, 66, paired a matching slit-up-to-there slip dress and corset with the dramatic head covering. She accessorized with a jaw-dropping gold Alta Gioielleria necklace set with giant diamonds and Bianco d’Istria stone carved skulls — plus a gold and crystal crown, per a press release from the brand.
While Madge certainly turned plenty of heads from the front row, the runway presentation was just as eye-catching — and even paid tribute to some of her most iconic looks. Models including Irina Shayk strutted their stuff on the catwalk in blond curly wigs, cone bras, white lace dresses and more Blond Ambition-coded creations.
Founders and designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana tipped their hats to the star — who also serves as a face of the brand — by embracing her at the end of the show and hosting an afterparty in her honor. “Thank you @madonna for believing in us from the very start. Who we are today is, in no small part, because of you! Love,” they wrote on Instagram.
“Sensuality, attitude and character. Italian Beauty emerges as the essence of the #DGSS25 Women’s Fashion Show: statement bras, sheer lingerie, shimmering dresses,” the brand explained of the inspiration. “Styles are redefined, blending iconic hues like Black Sicily, red, white and nude with exquisite textures, to celebrate the strength of #DolceGabbana’s femininity.”
Fans were loving the homage to the Material Girl, sharing comments including, “Iconic runway, iconic inspiration” and, “I am completely fascinated by this collection. Madonna’s golden era is an inexhaustible and precious source of inspiration.”
Madonna lifted her veil post-show, changing into a sheer white minidress with a black corset, fur stole and fishnet tights for the afterparty. Guests included model Alton Mason, photographer Mert Alas, supermodel Eva Herzigova and more.
The Return of the Cone Bra
The cone bra, a symbol of Madonna’s rebellious spirit and fearless fashion sense, first gained notoriety during her 1990 Blond Ambition tour. Designed by Jean Paul Gaultier, the bra became a defining piece of the tour’s wardrobe and an iconic representation of the era’s bold and provocative fashion. The bra was more than just lingerie; it was a statement, a symbol of female empowerment. It was a piece of clothing that challenged conventional norms and pushed boundaries.
Dolce & Gabbana, known for their flamboyant designs and unapologetic embrace of sensuality, have long been admirers of Madonna’s style. The designers were inspired by her Blond Ambition tour and recreated the iconic cone bra for their Spring/Summer 2025 collection, showcasing its enduring power and relevance in contemporary fashion. This decision to incorporate the cone bra into their collection is a testament to its enduring legacy and the influence that Madonna continues to hold over the fashion world.
The collection, dubbed “Italian Beauty”, paid homage to Madonna’s impact on fashion, featuring the cone bra in various forms. It peeked out from under cropped jackets, was paired with pencil skirts, and even formed the centerpiece of tailored jackets. The bra was reimagined in a variety of materials, from lace to satin, showcasing its versatility and adaptability to different aesthetics. Garters, corsets, and coats that sculpted the body also graced the runway, accentuating the collection’s focus on bold femininity. Oversized cross earrings completed the looks and contributed to the collection’s overall sense of empowered femininity.
Madonna's Influence on the Show
Madonna’s presence at the show wasn’t merely symbolic; it was a clear declaration of her enduring influence on the fashion world. Dolce & Gabbana, in acknowledging her as their muse, highlighted the power of her image and the impact she has had on contemporary fashion. They have built a long-standing relationship with the pop icon, dating back to the 1990s, when they designed costumes for her The Girlie Show tour. They have consistently drawn inspiration from her style, showcasing her influence on their design process and their perception of femininity.
The designers’ embrace of Madonna as the face of their brand and their decision to dedicate a collection to her iconic image are a testament to her enduring legacy as a fashion icon. Her influence transcends time and continues to shape the direction of the industry, demonstrating her lasting impact on fashion and the world of entertainment.
An Icon's Continued Impact
Madonna, throughout her career, has been a fearless fashion icon, pushing boundaries and challenging traditional norms. Her influence on fashion is undeniable, extending beyond her personal style. She has inspired designers, photographers, and stylists, shaping trends and influencing the way we perceive fashion. Her impact on the industry is evident in the recurring tributes and homages she receives, including Dolce & Gabbana’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection. Her continued impact speaks to her legacy as a fashion icon and her enduring power to inspire, pushing boundaries and shaping the way we view femininity.
The cone bra, a symbol of Madonna’s rebellious spirit, is making a comeback. It’s a testament to the enduring power of fashion, its ability to revisit the past and reinterpret iconic styles for the present. Madonna’s influence on fashion continues to shape the industry, demonstrating her legacy as a fashion icon and her enduring power to inspire.
