As a self proclaimed 80's girl, it came as quite a shock to hear of the passing of Michael Jackson. As an Iconic "King of Pop", here created a new dance style and movement that has influenced future generations of performers. Like Farrah Fawcett, another famous icon from my youth, I asked myself what makes these people so memorable in life, but now even more in death.
When I was first starting out in the costume business, the most popular costume choices were always legendary figures: Elvis white jumpsuit during his Vegas days, Marilyn Monroe in her "7 Year Itch" signature white dress, Lucille Ball from her popular "I Love Lucy" show. Like Micheal Jackson, these celebs were iconic in that they had very public lives long before reality television. To this day, there is speculation if Elvis somehow faked his death, or that Marilyn was murdered. The recurring theme in many of their lives is often that of a troubled person who is catapulted to fame. Drug abuse is often the thread that connects these legends. But even more than that, is their ability to not just follow trends, but actually set them.
Madonna (while still very much alive), in many ways emulated Marilyn Monroe during the 80's and 90's, created a whole new following with her "Like a Virgin" and "Torpedo Bustier" look, custom made by French designer Jean Paul Gautier. Some of the greatest trends were made by her own self-styling. Liberace took Elton John's piano man look to the extreme, with his pompadour, elaborate feather and sequined cloaks and ring filled fingers. Freddy Mercury, front man of the 70's and 80's band Queen, pushed the envelope on tight, with his glam rock jumpsuits and tights
The mixture of an early death by drugs and rock n' roll is the most evident in the passing of Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix and Jim Morrison. What makes these legends iconic is their very short lives that burned so brightly with an immense talent followed by a sad end. They had their own distinct styling as well, and continues to be requested to this day.
Finally, you cannot talk about legends without mentioning Cher. One of the most requested costume has to be her "I Got You Babe" look. Her influence is so great in that she began a connection with designer Bob Mackie from a young age who designed her one-of-a-kind looks for her red carpet, television and concert appearances.
Heidi Loney has worked as a costume designer and wardrobe stylist for theatre, film and television for the last 10 years. She currently owns Ms. Dress-Up, an on-line store costume shop offering quality kids and adult dress-up clothes. Check out her website: http://msdress-up.com and just for adults: http://www.naughtydressup.com
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