Elton John is not just a musical legend; he’s a fashion icon whose flamboyant and extravagant outfits have captivated audiences for decades. From dazzling jumpsuits to feather boas and oversized glasses, his stage presence is as much about visual spectacle as it is about his incredible music. Let’s take a look through some of his most memorable outfits, showcasing a style evolution that is as unique and enduring as his career.
Elton John wearing a sparkly jumpsuit in 1973
The Glam Rock Era: 1973-1975
The early 1970s saw Elton John firmly establish his signature style, deeply rooted in the glam rock movement. Think bold colors, shimmering fabrics, and platform boots. In 1973, as seen in the image above, he was already embracing the sparkle that would become a hallmark of his stage wear. These weren’t just clothes; they were costumes designed to command attention and amplify his dynamic performances.
Elton John in a star-patterned suit in 1973
His 1973 looks frequently featured custom-made suits with elaborate patterns and embellishments. Stars, stripes, and vibrant color combinations were common themes, reflecting the exuberant spirit of the era and his own larger-than-life persona. These outfits were perfectly synchronized with his energetic piano playing and showmanship.
Elton John in a vibrant blue outfit performing in 1974
By 1974, Elton’s stage outfits were becoming even more theatrical. He experimented with bolder silhouettes and increasingly flamboyant accessories. Feathers, glitter, and oversized glasses became essential components of his performances, blurring the lines between concert and costume drama.
Elton John performing at the Forum in Los Angeles in 1974 wearing a detailed outfit
His performances at venues like The Forum in Los Angeles in 1974 were legendary not only for the music but also for the visual spectacle. Each outfit seemed designed to outdo the last, pushing the boundaries of stage fashion and solidifying his reputation as a style innovator.
Elton John wearing a patterned suit in Watford, England in 1974
Even in his hometown of Watford, England, in May 1974, Elton’s commitment to extravagant stage wear was unwavering. This patterned suit, while perhaps slightly more restrained than some of his bolder choices, still retained the characteristic flair that defined his style.
Elton John in a white and gold outfit performing in London in 1974
London in 1974 provided another backdrop for Elton’s fashion performances. This white and gold ensemble showcases his penchant for luxurious fabrics and intricate detailing. The outfits from this period are a testament to his willingness to embrace maximalism and reject conventional stage attire.
Elton John on tour in 1974 wearing a shimmering outfit
On tour in 1974, Elton continued to dazzle. The shimmering fabrics and bold designs ensured he was always the center of attention, perfectly matching the energy of his performances and the scale of the venues he was playing.
Elton John performing in 1974 in a vibrant stage costume
Another performance look from 1974 exemplifies the vibrant and playful nature of his stage costumes. These weren’t just clothes; they were integral to his artistic expression, enhancing the theatricality of his concerts.
Elton John in his Beverly Hills wardrobe in 1975, showcasing his flamboyant style
Stepping into 1975, a photograph taken at his Beverly Hills home offers a glimpse inside Elton’s wardrobe. Even off-stage, his personal style reflected the same flamboyant tastes. The image hints at the sheer volume and variety of outfits he possessed, each piece likely telling its own story.
His 1975 performance at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles is iconic for many reasons, and his outfit was certainly one of them. The scale of the event demanded an equally grand visual statement, and Elton delivered with a star-spangled baseball uniform, a nod to the venue and his adopted home.
Elton John performing in 1975 in a patterned jumpsuit
Continuing through 1975, his stage outfits maintained the high standard of extravagance. Patterned jumpsuits remained a staple, offering both comfort for performing and ample opportunity for dazzling embellishments.
Elton John in a feather-trimmed outfit in 1975
Feathers began to feature more prominently in his outfits around this time, adding another layer of texture and drama. This feather-trimmed look from 1975 is a perfect example of how he combined different elements to create truly unique stage personas.
Elton John receiving his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1975
Even for more formal occasions, like receiving his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1975, Elton John’s outfits were far from ordinary. This suit, while more conventional in cut, still featured distinctive details and a bold color choice, ensuring he stood out from the crowd.
Continuing the Spectacle: 1976-1980
The late 1970s and early 1980s saw Elton John continue to experiment and evolve his stage wardrobe, never losing the flair that had become his trademark.
In London, 1976, his outfits were as vibrant and energetic as his music. The attention to detail and the use of bold colors remained central to his stage persona, captivating audiences worldwide.
Elton John performing on the Muppet Show in 1977
His appearance on The Muppet Show in 1977 was a perfect example of his playful approach to fashion. Even alongside puppets, Elton’s outfit was the star, blending seamlessly with the show’s whimsical and over-the-top aesthetic.
Elton John dressed as Donald Duck in Central Park, New York City in 1980
Perhaps one of his most iconic and playful outfits was his Donald Duck costume for a free concert in Central Park, New York City in 1980. This cemented his reputation for not taking himself too seriously and for embracing humor and theatricality in his performances.
Elton John performing in Central Park in 1980 in a feathered outfit
Even without the full Donald Duck costume, his Central Park performance outfits in 1980 were extravagant. Feathers and sequins continued to be key elements, ensuring a visually stunning show for the massive crowd.
The 1980s: Bigger and Bolder
The 1980s saw Elton John’s outfits become even more theatrical, reflecting the decade’s penchant for excess and bold statements.
Elton John performing at Madison Square Garden in 1982 in a sparkly jacket
Performances at venues like Madison Square Garden in New York City in the early 1980s were opportunities to showcase increasingly elaborate and sparkling outfits. Jackets became heavily embellished, and the overall look was about maximum impact.
Elton John performing at Madison Square Garden in 1982 in a detailed outfit
Another Madison Square Garden appearance in 1982 highlighted the continued evolution of his stage costumes. The details became even more intricate, showcasing a dedication to creating visually stunning and memorable looks.
Elton John performing in Los Angeles in 1983 in a sparkly outfit
Los Angeles in 1983 provided another stage for his ever-evolving style. The sparkle and shine remained, but the silhouettes and detailing continued to be refined and pushed further.
Elton John backstage at Wembley Arena in London in 1984
Backstage at Wembley Arena in London in 1984, even in a more relaxed setting, Elton’s outfit still made a statement. The attention to detail and the commitment to a strong visual identity were ever-present.
Elton John performing in London in 1984 in a vibrant costume
Performing in London in December 1984, his outfits were reaching new levels of theatricality. The costumes were becoming integral to the storytelling of his performances, enhancing the emotional impact of his music.
Elton John performing at Madison Square Garden in 1986 in a bold outfit
Returning to Madison Square Garden in 1986, the boldness of his outfits continued to escalate. Each tour and performance seemed to bring with it a new set of even more extravagant costumes.
Elton John performing in Sydney, Australia in 1986 in a shimmering outfit
Sydney, Australia in 1986 witnessed the global reach of Elton’s fashion influence. His shimmering outfits were as impactful on international stages as they were in his home countries.
Elton John performing in Sydney, Australia in 1986 in a detailed costume
Another Sydney performance in 1986 showcases the level of detail in his costumes. The craftsmanship and design were always top-tier, contributing to the overall sense of spectacle.
A portrait from London in 1986 captures Elton’s style off-stage as well. While perhaps less overtly flamboyant than his stage wear, it still reflects his distinctive and fashionable persona.
Elton John in Hollywood in 1987 in a patterned jacket
In Hollywood in 1987, even in a more casual setting, Elton’s patterned jacket and signature glasses maintained his stylish image. His personal style was as recognizable as his music.
Elton John with his stage costumes in 1988, showcasing his collection
By 1988, a photograph of Elton with his stage costumes provides a sense of the vast collection he had amassed over the years. It’s a visual testament to his dedication to fashion as a crucial part of his artistry.
The 1990s and Beyond: Fashion Icon Status
In the 1990s and beyond, Elton John solidified his status as not just a performer but a true fashion icon. His style continued to evolve, sometimes becoming more refined, but always retaining a sense of boldness and individuality.
His collaborations with designers like Versace in the 1990s, as seen at a store opening in London in 1992 with Gianni and Donatella Versace, further cemented his fashion credentials. These partnerships highlighted his influence within the high fashion world.
Arriving at his 50th birthday party in London in 1997, Elton John’s outfit was, unsurprisingly, a major talking point. Even for personal celebrations, his commitment to extravagant and memorable looks remained undiminished.
Elton John’s outfits are more than just clothing; they are a visual representation of his artistry, his personality, and his enduring impact on popular culture. From the glam rock extravagance of the 1970s to the theatrical costumes of the 1980s and his collaborations with high fashion in the 1990s and beyond, his style journey is as captivating as his musical one. His willingness to break boundaries and embrace individuality has made him a true fashion icon, inspiring generations to express themselves boldly and without reservation.
