Madonna’s Super Bowl halftime performance was, to put it concisely, intense. What seemed to be a pastiche of ancient civilizations aesthetics, the spectacular show opened with Roman-like soldiers parading through the stadium, dragging the Queen of Pop on a golden throne which was perched on top of a float in Egyptian fashion, to the supremely lit up stage, or maybe a more appropriate reference might be to call it the Madonna Empire. The beginning of the show was shocking and fantastical with an ancient and mystical flair. Madonna’s chic Roman warrior ensemble, which was surely the superstars most outstanding outfit of the night, only enhanced the visuals. However, with costumes designed by the glamourous House of Givenchy, you can be certain that each ensemble, as well as the performance, was show stopping.

The pop queen revved up the halftime extravaganza with her famous song “Vogue” and the head-to-toe Givenchy outfit that she donned was singing the tune as well. Carrying through with the black and gold trend that was established in the plethora of backup dancers outfits, the sexy noir dress had short sleeves with gold detailing that matched the details that resided atop the high neck line. A military belt with gold plates added a pleating effect to the ensemble and made the singer resemble a Roman warrior princess. A golden cape lined in a sumptuous leopard print was also attached to the dress. The most shocking part of the pop star’s outfit was the golden Egyptian looking head piece that was adorned with wings and horns. Madonna completed the couture look with fierce accessories – long black leather gloves that reached to the mid-upper arm, and dominatrix thigh high boots that created a similar aesthetic to the gloves and flowed with the dangerously sexy vibe of the outfit.

The performance included appearances from other celebrities who also donned intricate costumes. The boys of LMFAO showed up wearing jungle themed Roman warrior getups. As the duo left the stage, they ripped Madonna’s warrior pleating right off of her belt, causing gasps of horror from fashion lovers everywhere. But it then became apparent that this was a strategic wardrobe change and Madonna was now the head cheerleader at Madonna High School with Nicki Minaj and M.I.A standing by her side as baroque warrior, rapping cheerleaders. If that isn’t enough celebrity guest appearances for you, then you’re in luck, because Cee-Lo Green also showed up as the drum line baton carrier at Madonna High School.

For the closing number Madonna and Cee-Lo sang “Like a Prayer” and changed up their high school extracurricular activity inspired attire. Intending to somewhat blend with their backup choir singers, the duo made a scene in long black robes. However, Madonna, in her long, black, waist synched coat with sharp leather detailing, and Cee-Lo, in his floor length, black sequined muumuu, more so resembled Jedis rather than choir members. Nevertheless, the show was shocking, exciting and the house of Givenchy managed to grab the spotlight with chic and innovative costumes.

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By: Stephanie D’Angelo