Donatella Versace devoted 11,000 hours to Beyoncé’s cowboy carter looks


Exclusive backstage scoop from the Versace x Cowboy Carter Tour collaboration

When Beyoncé hits the stage, she doesn’t just perform—she transforms. And for her Cowboy Carter Tour, she turned to none other than Donatella Versace to bring her bold vision to life. The result? Two custom-designed showstoppers that took a jaw-dropping 11,000 hours to complete and shimmer with hundreds of thousands of hand-placed crystals.

The reveal took place at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, where Beyoncé stunned in a crystal-embroidered bodysuit paired with white fringe chaps—a fierce fusion of western flair and Queen Bey glamour. The second look? A dramatic ball gown featuring Versace’s iconic barocco print, inspired by a 1990s Gianni Versace classic. Donatella herself called it her favorite of the two.

“It’s based on one of Gianni’s most iconic silhouettes—a corseted top and a voluminous skirt—but with a cowgirl twist,” Donatella told PEOPLE.

Beyoncé’s Vision, Versace’s Craft

The styling was a true collaboration. Beyoncé added her own touches—crystal boots, the Medusa Chain necklace, and of course, her signature cowboy hat. She first spotted the original dress during Versace’s Fall 2025 runway show in Milan and instantly knew she had to make it her own.

Donatella, who recently announced she’s stepping down as Versace’s creative director after a 30-year reign, spoke emotionally about the moment backstage. “She invited me behind the scenes just before going on stage. Watching her bring my design to life—it was overwhelming in the best way.”

She closed with heartfelt praise: “Beyoncé is a goddess. Not just for how she looks, but because she’s truly one of the most generous and kind-hearted souls I’ve ever met.”