Entertainment

Northern Ireland designer collaborates with Beyoncé to create stylish tour wardrobe

Beyoncé on stage in outfit
Beyoncé on stage in outfit Beyoncé on stage in outfit

Global superstar Beyoncé commissioned two outfits for her 'billion' dollar Renaissance world tour from a  Co Derry designer.

Inspired by the album 'Renaissance', Jonathan Anderson, the creative director of Spanish label Loewe, incorporated 'sculptural forms and optical illusion techniques' to create the outfits, one of which was a show-stopping gold bodysuit with strategically placed hands.

Beyoncé's world tour kicked off last month in Stockholm, Sweden. 

Other noteworthy creations by Mr Anderson, who is from Magherafelt, include the Super Bowl halftime show costume for Rihanna and a color-blocked cardigan worn by Harry Styles that went viral, demonstrating his capacity to design enduring and significant styles for popstars in the upper echelon. 

Beyoncé performing in outfit
Beyoncé performing in outfit Beyoncé performing in outfit

Anderson draws inspiration from his upbringing in both Ireland and Ibiza.

In an interview with British Vogue, he emphasized the lasting impact of his Northern Irish roots on his creative process.

Anderson mentioned that growing up in Northern Ireland,  "the craft, the family, the harshness" were what stayed with him throughout his life and were influential to his creative process.

Anderson's childhood experiences amidst the Troubles, including navigating bomb-ravaged streets, shaped his perspective on mortality and resilience. His designs reflect a unique blend of abstract concepts and playful elements, embodying the essence of his upbringing.

Harry Styles (left) and Rihanna (right) performing
Harry Styles (left) and Rihanna (right) performing Harry Styles (left) and Rihanna (right) performing
Designer Jonathan Anderson
Designer Jonathan Anderson Designer Jonathan Anderson