London-based Caymanian fashion designer Jawara Alleyne is among the independent designers selected to bring to life the iconic looks of Colombian singer-songwriter Shakira, who has embarked on her seventh concert tour this year.
The ‘Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran’ World Tour in North America and South America began on 11 Feb. in Brazil, and features a career-spanning set list of hits. The accompanying wardrobe tells the story of the superstar’s musical journey with strong, sexy, fun and confident style.
“It’s an incredible honour to contribute to such an iconic moment in her career,” Alleyne told the Cayman Compass.
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“Collaborating with an artist like Shakira, someone whose presence, movement and music carry such global impact, makes the design process even more meaningful. It’s always when worlds collide in a way that creates real synergy.”
Alleyne confirmed on his social media nine looks showcased throughout the tour, including for Shakira’s hit song ‘Waka Waka’, which featured bright and colourful cut-out, stringed pieces.
In addition, Alleyne designed costumes for six of the singer’s dancers.
Alleyne also presented bold looks for her 2001 hit single ‘Whenever, Wherever’ with the Colombian artist in a leather and jersey skirt for her performance.
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The plan started with just one look, Alleyne noted, “but Shakira loved it so much that it naturally evolved into a larger visual narrative across multiple moments in the tour. Each look plays a role in shaping her stage presence, and to contribute to that kind of storytelling through design is something really special.”
‘A strong alignment’
Alleyne confirmed the collaboration started when Shakira’s stylist reached out to discuss a custom look for the tour.
From the start, he said, it was “clear there was a strong alignment between her vision and my approach to design, both in terms of craftsmanship and the energy behind the pieces.
“Designing for performance is about so much more than aesthetics; it’s about movement, emotion and creating something that enhances the artist’s presence on stage. That shared understanding made this an exciting and seamless collaboration.”
A dynamic process
Regarding the creative process, Alleyne said it was “incredibly dynamic”.
“It started with understanding Shakira’s vision for the tour and how she wanted to feel on stage — powerful, effortless and completely in her element. From there, it was about crafting pieces that not only looked stunning but moved beautifully with her. We explored textures, embellishments and silhouettes that would amplify her energy and presence,” he said.
“I also flew to Mexico to build the looks on her, which is when it all really came to life. We tried the looks on her and she tested the movements to develop the best movement and feel for how she moves.”
Designing for movement always presents unique challenges, Alleyne said.
“You have to think about durability, flexibility and how the garments interact with lighting and motion. But those challenges made the process even more exciting.”
He added, “Shakira has such a strong sense of self and performance, so creating something that aligned with her energy felt very natural. I think it was also great being able to work with her in person to see how she actually moves. Everyone moves differently and her motions are so specific. It would have been difficult to arrive at the looks without fitting them on her but because we were able to do that, and also to do dress rehearsals, it made it a lot easier.”
Alleyne said, “Shakira is an artist who transcends generations and cultures, and to be part of that storytelling through design is something really special.”
The Shakira tour collaboration is one of the latest ventures for Alleyne. He recently completed his collection AW25 ‘Construction’, which was showcased on 22 Feb., as part of London Fashion Week, adding to his other groundbreaking collections. He was the only Caymanian designer a part of the world-renowned fashion show.
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