20 Questions with Pop Sensation Shakira
The pop singer-songwriter, who just dropped her latest, self-titled album, dishes on her greatest indulgence, best beauty secret, and surprising hidden talent

1. What brings you the greatest joy? My family, particularly my son Milan's smile.
2. What is on your feet right now? Nothing. I'm barefoot whenever I can be.
3. What brings you the greatest satisfaction? Writing a new song.
4. What is on your bookshelf? Poetry, history, and art books.
5. What makes you laugh? My son's laugh, and his dad [FC Barcelona soccer player Gerard Piqué], constantly.
6. What can you not miss on TV? Reruns of Seinfeld and Curb Your Enthusiasm. My boyfriend and I have been really into Suits lately, too.
7. What makes you mad? How many children in this world have no access to quality education.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
8. What song instantly puts you in a good mood? Nirvana's Smells Like Teen Spirit.
9. What is your greatest indulgence? Chocolate, always.
10. What is on your kitchen counter? Lots of fruit and usually some Nutella.
11. What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you? I'm a closet nerd. I love to study history and visit museums.
12. What charities do you support? I started my own, Pies Descalzos/Barefoot Foundation, when I was 18. We provide education to vulnerable children in Colombia and other developing countries. I am an avid believer that education—and especially early childhood development—is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty.
13. What is on your nightstand? My iPad, and maybe a piece of chocolate or two.
14. What is your beauty secret? Less is more, staying hydrated, rested, and lots of vitamin C.
15. Do you have a secret talent? I'm double-jointed. I can put my legs over my head, which freaks people out.
16. What item in your closet do you wear the most? A white T-shirt and comfy, usually ripped, jeans.
17. Of the seven deadly sins, which one are you guilty of? Probably gluttony. I love food, and I'm a chronic over-orderer at restaurants.
18. What superstitions do you believe in? No hats on the bed! It's bad luck—ask any Colombian.
19. What is one thing you wish you knew when you were younger? Not to put so much pressure on myself and to have more fun.
20. What should every woman try at least once in her life? Falling in love without thinking.
Dedicated to women of power, purpose, and style, Marie Claire is committed to celebrating the richness and scope of women's lives. Reaching millions of women every month, Marie Claire is an internationally recognized destination for celebrity news, fashion trends, beauty recommendations, and renowned investigative packages.
-
Taylor Swift Styles a Breezy Loewe Dress for a Special Surprise Visit
She made their day.
-
After Season 2's Controversial Ending, Will 'The Devil's Plan' Return for Season 3?
Fans have a lot of thoughts about where the Korean reality show should go.
-
Sydney Sweeney Makes (Faux) Fur Work for Summer
She wear anything she sets her mind to.
-
2000s Nostalgia Is As Prevalent As Ever. But These Authors Aren't Sure Our Cultural Obsession Is for the Best
The 'Culture Creep,' 'Girl on Girl,' and 'Waiting for Britney Spears' writers discuss their new books and why we can't let Y2K go.
-
Finn Wolfhard Shares What Music Shaped Him—and What's on His Playlist Now
With his album 'Happy Birthday' out now, the actor/musician opens up about his musical preferences for the 'Marie Claire' series "Listen Up."
-
Maren Morris Shares What Music Shaped Her—and What's on Her Playlist Now
With her album 'D R E A M S I C L E' out now, the singer opens up about her musical preferences for the 'Marie Claire' series "Listen Up."
-
Natasha Lyonne Wants Entertainment to Embrace the Unknown
She opened up about her boundary-breaking new projects onstage at Power Play.
-
Beyoncé Battles Her Gatekeepers on the 'Cowboy Carter' Tour
And proves the best use of her power is looking beyond them.
-
In 'Sinners,' Music From the Past Liberates Us From the Present
In its musical moments, Ryan Coogler's vampire blockbuster makes a powerful statement about Black culture, ancestry, and art.
-
After 25 Years, 'The Virgin Suicides' Is Still Influencing Artists Like Me
To coincide with the film's anniversary, Mia Berrin from Pom Pom Squad reflects on what it's meant to her artistic journey.
-
Rico Nasty Shares What Music Shaped Her—and What's on Her Playlist Now
With her new album 'LETHAL' coming soon, the rapper opens up about her musical preferences for the 'Marie Claire' series "Listen Up."