By now we’re used to Jennifer Lopez‘s bold wardrobe choices. From ultra-plunging necklines to cape-adorned gowns covered in sequins, the star loves to make a style statement. But she somehow managed to out -J.Lo herself, wearing a dramatic white design that transformed into a projection backdrop during her performance on American Idol Thursday night. And because we’re still talking about her crazy, extravagant work of art, we got all the exclusive details on the custom-made confection straight from the gown’s creator (and J.Lo’s stylist!), Mariel Haenn!
After changing from her judging Idol outfit (a navy, sequin Elie Saab romper!), Lopez wowed the crowd in a white off-the-shoulder design for her performance of “Feel the Light” from the upcoming animated film, Home. But viewers weren’t expecting what happened next: Lights, colors and special effects were projected onto the dress’s giant skirt and train, which covered the entire stage.
“It was actually a dress that she was wearing with a giant skirt that had a 20-foot radius,” Haenn tells PEOPLE. “The projection was mapped out days in advance so they could work and perfect the animation and projection that added the extra wow factor.”
RELATED PHOTOS: Cookie’s 5 Fiercest Looks from Empire (Including a Finale Sneak Peek!)
The statement dress, which was inspired by an “old vintage reference,” had been in the production for a long time, according to Haenn. But all the hard work eventually paid off, creating a one-of-a-kind performance only J.Lo could master. “Overall, we were all really excited with the results,” Haenn shares.
What do you think of J.Lo’s dress she wore for her performance on American Idol? Cool or crazy? Sound off below!
RELATED VIDEO: Chill Out! Watch J.Lo Get the ‘Goosies’ Again, and Again – and Again
–Sarah Kinonen, with reporting by Catherine Kast
