Top 10 Outrageous Fashion Icons in Music (REDUX)
#10: Grace Jones
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The cross-dressing movement of the 1980s wouldn’t be the same without this Jamaican singer and actress. While she’s had several dance club and R&B hits, it’s Jones’ sexually ambiguous style that has influenced dozens and dozens of artists, counting several on this list. Now considered a fashion icon, her signature look includes short and closely shaved hair, original hats, padded shoulders, sharp lines and outrageous clubwear.
#9: Björk
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When it comes to this Icelandic singer-songwriter, her music isn’t the only thing that can be called eclectic. After leaving her pixie phase, Björk experimented with customized costumes and colorful onstage accessories. She even faced censorship from MTV for partial nudity in several music videos. But, of course, it’s that infamous swan dress from the 2001 Oscars that lands her a place in fashion history forever.
#8: Freddie Mercury
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When it comes to being a frontman, Freddie Mercury was the whole package: he boasted theatrical vocals that reached four octaves and a knack for writing some of the greatest rock melodies ever. But he also had a big personality and a love of the stage that took people to the edge and back, thanks to his flamboyant onstage costumes that included tights, bodysuits, fur and more.
#7: Lady Gaga
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When it comes to her music and her fashion choices, there’s no denying Mother Monster’s been influenced by Madonna. But Lady Gaga has also shown she’s a true artist and trendsetter in her own right: not only does she take chances with her choices and tries to make statements through fashion, she’s also willing to risk being called pretentious or a try-hard for her art. In short: she’s an original.
#6: Cher
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The Goddess of Pop didn’t only experiment with musical styles but also with clothing styles too. After capturing our attention with her long black hair, bell-bottoms and Native American-influenced shirts, Cher dared to bare her belly button on television and donned sexy Bob Mackie-signed threads. She stood out even more with her many wigs and tattoos as well as her ability to seemingly effortlessly transform her look throughout the decades.
#5: Marilyn Manson
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While he may not fit your description of one of “the beautiful people,” it’s hard to deny that Marilyn Manson’s attention-grabbing style isn’t a big part of his notoriety and success. By crafting an image around controversial themes like Satanism, sex and drugs, the Antichrist Superstar has shocked and awed countless people. Meanwhile, his graphic lyrics and performances have allowed him to push numerous political, social and religious boundaries.
#4: Liberace
Boy, did this guy love glitter. The child prodigy-turned-pianist and vocalist didn’t only make waves for his music but also for his colorful costumes and live shows. Though he attracted fans with his piano playing, it was his theatrical bravado, loads of jewels, long coats with tails and use of a candelabra that became his signature. With over-the-top clothing that matched his dramatic performances, Liberace went on to inspire many subsequent artists.
#3: Elton John
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Though he doesn’t dress up as much as he used to, there are few people who can forget when this English singer-songwriter donned wigs, a variety of sunglasses and one-of-a-kind onstage get-ups. Performing skillfully and confidently throughout the years, Elton John was never one to shy away from fun patterns and always knew exactly how to put on a good show. Is it any wonder he’s one of the world’s best-selling artists?
#2: Madonna
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She’s the Queen of Pop and the Queen of Reinvention. Starting with the punk-inspired lace, fishnet and short skirts look, The Material Girl showed us she was never afraid to change things up or create controversy. Ranging from sexy corsets and avant-garde cone bras to Christianity-inspired accessories and gothic attire to tight pink leotards, Madonna’s truly done it all – she even has her own fashion line! Before we unveil our number one pick, here are a few honorable mentions: - Nicki Minaj - Boy George - Beth Ditto - Prince - Michael Jackson
#1: David Bowie
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Because he constantly changes musical styles, this English musician has been called a chameleon. And though he’s become tamer in recent years, David Bowie is still most fondly remembered for his original work as Ziggy Stardust and the vibrant, space-inspired costumes he wore. Though the period was short-lived, Bowie changed things up by adopting the Thin White Duke persona. He’s since continued to fearlessly reinvent himself, his music and his look and influenced many in the process. Do you agree with our list? Which musical artist do you think has the most unique sense of fashion and style? Don’t forget to check out our videos on the Top 10 Outrageous Male Fashion Icons in Music, the Top 10 Outrageous Female Fashion Icons in Music and the Top 10 Masked or Costumed Musicians for more of your favorite fashion icons, and be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com for more top 10s published every day.
