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Christina Aguilera made a dramatic fashion comeback at the London premiere of Burlesque: The Musical in the West End, a theatrical adaptation of the 2010 film she starred in alongside the legendary Cher.
The singer stepped out in the same vintage green Versace corset dress she modeled 22 years ago. A statement that shows her stamp of approval to the stage production, which seeks to revive the spirit of the original movie.
© VersaceThe dress she wore, from the brand’s Fall/Winter 2003 collection, originally featured her in campaign photographed by Steven Meisel. The style is a gothic-inspired look that cemented its place in fashion history, and now Aguilera has breathed new life into the archival piece.
The form-fitting dress, featuring corsetry, a structured neckline, and a mix of silk and velvet, evokes romantic and Victorian fashion, but with a modern twist. Its design enhances the female silhouette while conveying strength and sensuality. A perfect choice for an event that celebrates theatricality and glamour.
The 44-year-old singer made a striking statement at the West End premiere photocall of Burlesque: The Musical at London’s Savoy Theatre, where she revived the standout Versace dress. Aguilera paired the iconic corset-style silhouette with knee-high black boots, straight platinum-blonde hair, and bold, dark makeup for a modern rocker twist.
© Gareth CattermoleThe Genie In a Bottle singer's styling made the archival piece feel fresh and contemporary, showcasing her enduring fashion prowess.
Back in 2003, Donatella Versace expressed her admiration for Aguilera after the campaign shoot. She told Billboard at the time, “I watch the videos of Christina and I always die. She is a great dancer, a great singer, and her voice is amazing.”
© Michel Dufour“I always hoped I could do something with her, but I wanted to be friends first; that is the most important thing for me.”
At just 22, Aguilera modeled the dress with minimal makeup to highlight her natural beauty, joining a roster of early-2000s fashion icons who embraced the daring corset design.
In addition to its history with Christina, this piece has an impressive trajectory in pop culture. In 2003, Beyoncé wore it during the MTV Movie Awards at a pivotal moment in her career, as she was just beginning her journey as a solo artist and formalizing her relationship with Jay-Z.
Years later, supermodel Iris Law also chose this very design to her look during London Fashion Week in 2022, reaffirming its timeless appeal. Even Bella Hadid, one of today’s leading fashion trendsetters, wore a modified nude-toned version at the Cannes Film Festival, evoking the elegance of an 18th-century queen.
© Getty Images
© Getty ImagesAguilera’s appearance wasn’t just a nostalgic nod. She also attended the event as executive producer of the show, and its theatrical version officially opens July 22nd and features musical numbers from the original movie.
© Gareth CattermoleWith this fashion-forward moment, Aguilera reminded audiences that true style never fades, and that she continues to evolve, reinvent, and inspire, both on and off stage.
