Mary J. Blige Steals the Show in Bottega Veneta Boots at Knicks Halftime Performance
The highly anticipated halftime show at Game One of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2025 NBA Playoffs between the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers did not disappoint, thanks in part to a stunning performance by Mary J. Blige. The queen of hip-hop soul took to the stage at Madison Square Garden in New York City, wearing a show-stopping all-pink ensemble that left fans and fashion enthusiasts alike in awe.
According to a report by Women’s Wear Daily (WWD), Blige donned a pair of thigh-high boots from Bottega Veneta in a vibrant Barbie pink shade. The boots, specifically the Canalazzo intrecciato style, featured the Italian luxury brand’s signature intrecciato technique, which involves hand-weaving strips of leather. As WWD notes, “The Italian-made boots are handwoven from strips of leather, using the designer’s signature intrecciato technique.”
The Canalazzo boots have been a staple of Bottega Veneta’s shoe collection since the mid-1970s, with the line featuring a range of styles including thigh-high boots, mules, pumps, and ankle boots in both smooth and woven leather. As WWD reports, Blige’s boots featured an over-the-knee silhouette that snugly hugged her thigh, while providing a looser fit toward the bottom. The curved, block heels measured approximately 100mm, giving her a towering lift while also providing comfort during her high-energy performance.
Blige has a long history with thigh-high boots, and has worn them repeatedly over the years as they have become an integral part of her brand and image. In 2024, she collaborated with Giuseppe Zanotti on a collection of thigh-high boots, further solidifying her affinity for the style. As WWD notes, “Blige has a long history with thigh-high boots, and she has worn them repeatedly over the years that they have become part of her brand and image.”
For her halftime show ensemble, Blige opted for a silk blouse and skirt set from Emilio Pucci, specifically the Iride-print miniskirt in pink with a matching button-down shirt. The shirt featured a front button fastening, an allover graphic print like the skirt, long sleeves, and buttoned cuffs. She wore hers with opened buttons at the top, revealing a hint of her pink undergarments. Her hair was styled in pin-straight, blonde waist-length locks, and she accessorized with diamond hoop earrings, sunglasses, and stacked diamond and silver necklaces.
The Iride print was a prominent feature of the summer 2025 Marmo Collection by Pucci, curated by Camille Miceli. The collection showcased draped volumes, Roman influences, and a glamorous nod to the 1920s, featuring prints like Marmo, Iride, Stella, and Maddalena, as well as bold colors, natural contrasts, and innovative materials. As WWD reports, “The Iride print was featured heavily in the summer 2025 Marmo Collection by Pucci.”
Blige took to Instagram after the game to share a photo of her performance, along with the caption: “The biggest stage in the world, along with the greatest city in the world, let’s go Knicks.” Despite the Knicks’ loss, the team scored a win thanks to Blige’s electrifying halftime show, which left fans and critics alike raving about her fashion choices and performance.
The halftime show was a showcase of Blige’s enduring style and influence, as well as Bottega Veneta’s iconic Canalazzo boots. As WWD notes, “Bottega Veneta began making shoes, including the Canalazzo style, in the mid-1970s.” With her performance, Blige once again proved why she is considered one of the most stylish and talented artists of her generation.
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