They’re the ones that have transcended generations, or are rapidly beginning to claim their stake in pop culture history. The Ziggy Stardusts and the Mother Monsters of the world. Concerts are about the music, however the theatrics certain artists choose to employ in their performance will always become an integral part of the show. Feathers, sequins, ruffles, a whole lot of skin – the best concert outfits are always an eclectic mixture of what is authentic to the artist themselves and the character they become on stage. Here, we look back at some of the best, most memorable concert outfits worn across the globe and across generations.
David Bowie
The Starman himself, Bowie was never one to shy away from an outlandish costume. While some of his best looks are more paired-back in a classic suit, we love the Aladdin Sane era endlessly.
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Stevie Nicks
Stevie, Stevie, the melodic queen of our hearts. Her whimsical stage presence and garb will forever be etched in our adoring minds.
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Tina Turner
Simply the best – IYKYK.
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Cher
If we could turn back time, seeing Cher performing in her 80s glory would be the first place we'd go, although her 1960s looks do give them a run for their money.
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ABBA
Rumour has it ABBA used to don such outlandish clothing as a means to avoid paying tax in Sweden. The results? Iconic disco decade imagery, from cat motifs to blue jumpsuits.
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Madonna
Forever the Queen of Pop, Madonna has always been that girl. Gaultier, Versace – just some friends who used to make her clothes. Honestly, is there a tour wardrobe more influential than her that worn on her 1990 Blonde Ambition tour? Riddle me this.
Freddie Mercury
The word "icon" is oft overused in articles concerning musicians past. However, when it comes to Freddie Mercury, it cannot be employed enough.
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PJ Harvey
Polly Jean, our fever dream. Just as her music is deeply experimental and ever-changing, so is her style. An artist in the truest sense of the word, PJ Harvey's albums are never without a fully-realised beauty or sartorial mood to match. Be it her To Bring You My Love era, defined by that iconic slick of powder blue eyeshadow, blood red lips, and lusty sequined dresses or shielded in monochromatic Ann Demeulemeester — a designer whom she feels a kinship with — for Let England Shake. Each period of dressing is charged with female desire, and tied together by her signature shock of black hair and enigmatic aura.
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Harry Styles
Few contemporary artists can hold a candle to the tour wardrobes of the greats, but Harry Styles is certainly doing his best to rise to the occasion. With a little help from Harry Lambert and Gucci, his Love on Tour wardrobe is vying for the top spot; a flood of leather, suits, feather boas and bare chest. And how about that Coachella look?
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Elton John
The Rocketman himself, opulence is a way of life for Sir Elton. Bedazzled sunglasses, baseball uniforms and feathers aplenty are always on high rotation in his wardrobe.
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Mick Jagger
What some consider the blueprint for Styles, Mick Jagger went from a conservatively dressed 1960s rock and roll singer to a 1970s god of androgynous, sultry style.
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Debbie Harry
An honourable mention to Debbie Harry, who had some vibrant, eclectic moments while performing as part of Blondie.
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Björk
Our Senior Fashion Editor Hannah Cooper pleaded for Björk to be included in this round up, and it's not hard to see why. A Björk performance is about more than the music – it is art, coming to life before your eyes.
Lady Gaga
Mother Monster, subtlety is never her strong point. We know her for wearing meat dresses on red carpets which she would also arrive to in a giant egg, and her on stage get up is as outlandish as off.
Dua Lipa
Clad in Mugler and Valentino, Dua Lipa is a bonafide pop star who has embraced all that comes with the territory: catchy tunes, choreographed dances to match and a costume as eye catching from the back row as it is in the front.
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Image: Pinterest
