Renee Old: The Creative Force Behind Shakira’s World Cup Style
In the high-stakes world of global entertainment, the visual identity of a superstar is just as critical as the music itself. For Colombian icon Shakira, the recent FIFA World Cup season has been a masterclass in fashion-forward storytelling, largely thanks to the meticulous work of celebrity wardrobe stylist Renee Old. As part of our “The Stars Behind the Stars” franchise, we explore how Old has become an essential architect of Shakira’s aesthetic, blending artistic flair with the demands of massive, global-scale productions.
Old, who has spent the last six years honing her craft alongside industry heavyweights like Lily Collins and Halsey, brings a unique perspective to her work. Her background as a lifelong soccer player—having played for two decades—provided a natural synergy when she began collaborating with Shakira’s team on projects tied to the FIFA World Cup and the Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour.
Crafting Iconic Moments
One of Old’s most celebrated contributions is the custom triangle top worn by Shakira in the music video for her World Cup anthem, “Dai Dai,” featuring Burna Boy. The piece, constructed from cutouts of the Colombian national soccer team jersey, was born from one of Old’s original sketches. “I designed it, drew it out, and the tailor brought it to life,” Old explains. “It’s about knowing the overall concept and incorporating artistic flair. It was about listening, learning, and understanding what she likes.”
The level of detail in Old’s work is perhaps best exemplified by the crystal-covered hat she handcrafted for the 2024 music video for “(Entre Paréntesis)” with Grupo Frontera. Faced with a last-minute need for a specific green hat, Old took the initiative to create a custom piece, applying every gem by hand over the course of six hours. This “day-of” ingenuity has become a hallmark of her creative process.
A Collaborative Vision
Working with a global superstar requires more than just technical skill; it demands a deep understanding of the artist’s creative vision. Old notes that Shakira is remarkably hands-on, possessing a clear ability to translate her ideas from her mind onto paper. This collaborative environment allows Old to push the boundaries of her designs, whether she is sourcing specific materials or coordinating cohesive looks for dozens of dancers.
“She knows what she wants,” says Old. “It’s easier that way for my brain. There are so many skills I have learned just by working with her team that I’m confident we can get anything done.”
Looking Ahead
As Old prepares for upcoming high-profile performances, she remains grounded by the lessons she has learned throughout her career. Her advice to aspiring creatives is simple: believe in yourself and stay true to your identity. By knowing when to say “no” to projects that don’t align with her expertise and maintaining high standards, she has carved out a niche that allows her to thrive.
For Renee Old, the journey from questioning the viability of a career in the arts to designing for the world’s biggest stages is a testament to the power of persistence and creative integrity. As she continues to shape the visual landscape of modern music, one thing is certain: her influence on the industry is only just beginning.
