Super bowls Halftime show outfit icons throughout the years
- Mateo
- Mar 9
- 3 min read
The super bowl halftime show is one of the most highly anticipated musical performances of the year, for a huge amount of the audience it is as much of a spectacle as the game itself. Over the years, there has been a vast array of performances, from marching bands to electrifying pop concerts.
The halftime show is also an important occasion for performers to make a fashion statement. The looks they choose can have a lasting impression and influence fashion trend and fashion milestones for seasons to come. In this post, we reminisce about some of the most iconic halftime looks over the years and explore Kendrick Lamar’s unforgettable look from the 2025 halftime show.
Why the Super Bowl Halftime show is so iconic
The super bowl halftime show is considered to be much more than just a musical performance, it is a cultural event that combines entertainment, sports celebration and fashion. Viewers and the media eagerly anticipate which artist is going to perform each year and what they will wear.
It is also an immense opportunity for brand designers to collaborate with performers and gain significant publicity in the hopes of boosting brand image and sales. The artist’s fashion choice is important to them as it helps to define their stage persona and tell a story.
Kendrick Lamar’s streetwear statement
Every year the chosen performer comes on stage with an unforgettable look at rapper Kendrick Lamar was no exception in 2025. Lamar has always challenged traditional norms with his looks and inspired fans to embrace their individuality and personal style, this look was a reminder of that.
Kendrick is someone who does streetwear style well, often being seen in pristine stacked jeans and graphic shirts. For his performance, the rapper paired Celine Jeans valued at $1,300 dollars with a cool custom-made Martine Rose varsity jacket. The look was styled by Taylor McNeil and captured the essence of his performance and tracks from album GNX.
The combination of bold colors and textures worked well here, creating an eye-catching look with the electric blue tones of his jacket. He is the first solo rapper to ever headline on the halftime stage and so making a good impression was important.
The surprise appearances of SZA and Serena Williams were welcomed by the audience and only helped to amplify the rapper’s high energy.
Other iconic halftime show looks throughout the years
Beyonce in 2016
The Queen of Pop, Beyonce is another iconic performer known for her fashionable looks. Her bold fashion choice at the halftime show in 2016 was inspired by Michael Jackon’s outfit in his 1993 halftime show.
The singer donned a custom made black and gold military style jacket, pairing it with fishnet tights and striking knee-high boots. Her look is thought to symbolise empowerment and strength and helped to make military style jackets make a comeback in fashion.
Jennifer Lopez and Shakira in 2020
Lopez and Shakira celebrated their Latin roots in their performances in 2020. Shakira opened in a dazzling red fringe dress from Peter Dundas. Lopez then performed in different options, including a glamorous silver Versace bodysuit. Both outfits were carefully crafted to support their high energy dance routines without compromising their individual signature styles.
Prince in 2007
Prince’s performance on the halftime stage is arguably one of the most memorable in super bowl history. The singer wore a turquoise suit with a high-neck shirt, which stood out against the pouring rain. The look and his matching purple guitar were a clever nod to his iconic song Purple Rain.
Lady Gaga in 2017
Lady Gaga’s looks never fail to make the headlines and her 2017 show outfit was as extravagant as the audience expected. Her futurist Versace bodysuit was perfect for accommodating her aerial stunts. She then changed into a metallic crop top with hot pants.
The half time shows at the Super Bowl have been some of the most anticipated sports events shows of our time. Many only tuning in for the performance and not the game. This is because the show is not simply a concert, it comes with curated dancing and epic outfits which only improve the overall talent within the performance.