Alright, hold onto your sequined jumpsuits, folks, because we’re about to take a trip down Elton John’s memory lane. This music legend isn’t just known for his incredible voice and hit songs – he’s also a master of outrageous fashion choices. From feathers to leathers, he’s never been one to shy away from pushing the limits of what’s considered acceptable attire in the music industry. To celebrate his upcoming 76th birthday, we’re taking a look at our favourite of Elton’s outfits throughout the years.
Let’s start with the Donald Duck outfit. Now, when you think of Elton John, “Disney character” probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. But during a concert in Central Park back in 1980, Elton donned a giant Donald Duck headpiece, yellow jumpsuit, and a wonderful sailor’s uniform to create the unique look. Bob Mackie, who’s also worked with the likes of Cher and Tina Turner, was the creative mastermind behind this unforgettable ensemble.
From one bird to another, next up we’ve got the iconic feathered outfit from Elton’s famous performance of Crocodile Rock on The Muppets show in 1972. Complete with his trademark sunglasses, a bejeweled headpiece and a colourful array of feathers, Elton put even the Muppets to shame with this legendary outfit.
Next, let’s talk about Elton John’s King Louis XIV outfit from his 50th birthday party – a fashion statement so bold, it could make even the most flamboyant peacock feel inadequate. This wasn’t just any outfit – it was a veritable feast for the eyes, a triumph of excess and extravagance. The long coat was adorned with gold embroidery so intricate, it looked like it could have been woven by angels. And those skin-tight trousers – let’s just say they left very little to the imagination. But the pièce de résistance was, without a doubt, the towering wig – a glorious, gravity-defying masterpiece that would have even made Marie-Antoinette jealous.
UNITED KINGDOM – CIRCA 1991: Elton John And Boyfriend David Furnish, ‘Elton John’s 50th Birthday Party’, Hammersmith Palais, London (Photo by Dave Benett/Getty Images)
Of course, we can’t talk about Elton John’s fashion without mentioning his love of leather. A man of our own hearts, he even called his 1986 album, “leather jackets”. In 1994, Elton rocked a tight fire-engine red leather suit complete with red leather boots – a look that was not dissimilar to Liz Hurley’s equally camp portrayal of The Devil in 2001’s ‘Bedazzled’. The overall effect was a head-to-toe explosion of colour and texture that only Elton John could pull off. It was a look that screamed “look at me,” and with an outfit like that, how could anyone not?
Last but not least, we have the sequined LA Dodgers outfit. Now, I’m not big on American sports, but I’m pretty sure it’s not typical for a baseball uniform to be dripping in rhinestones. But Elton John doesn’t play by anyone else’s rules, and in 1975, he decided to show his love for the LA Dodgers by bedazzling their kit during a sell out concert in their stadium.The shirt was covered in sequins in the team’s blue and white colours, with the iconic Dodgers logo outlined in even more glittering jewels. And just in case anyone missed the message, Elton also wore a matching Dodgers cap that was similarly encrusted with jewels and sequins.
Elton John’s craziest outfits are a testament to his unique style and fearless creativity. Whether he’s sporting feathers or leather, he always manages to make a statement and capture the attention of his audience. We can’t wait to see what he rocks up in for his final ever performance at Glastonbury this year. One thing we can say for certain is that it will definitely be eye catching!
