From oversized blazers and simple white shirts to all-leather get-ups and rhinestone-studded jumpsuits, Elvis Presley defined what it was not only to be a rock god but to look like one. Sure, he was destined to be a pop-music idol based on his versatile, beautiful voice alone, but the combination of his onstage swagger with his cooler-than-cool wardrobe meant he would be a trendsetter for generations to come. In this special issue filled with gorgeous photos, we trace the origins of Elvis' sartorial tastes and the evolution of his style through decades of concerts, movies and appearances.
HIS CHANGING ELVIS STYLE
THE KING OF ROCK ’N’ WARDRoBE • From oversized blazers and simple white shirts to all-leather get-ups and rhinestone-studded jumpsuits, Elvis Presley defined what it was not only to be a rock god but to look like one
A HEAD FOR HAIR
COOL EFFORTLESS • At the start of his career, Elvis wore classic, everyday pieces in ways that made them seem tailor-made just for him. Then, once he hit the stage, even baggy suits became bespoke
MOVIE MOXIE • On the big screen, Elvis could wear anything — from surf togs to racing uniforms — and still look quintessentially himself
ALL SHOOK UP • Bold colors, big collars, flared bottoms, bejeweled capes, tinted glasses, and rings galore — Elvis elevated rock wear to fine art
Who were the LANSKY BROTHERS?
Who was NUDIE COHN?
The 1968 COMEBACK SPECIAL
Who was BILL BELEW?
A FRESH TAKE • Costume designer Catherine Martin turned Austin Butler into Elvis with her spins on the singer’s vintage looks
Who is AUSTIN BUTLER?
Who is CATHERINE MARTIN?
Who is BAZ LUHRMANN?
ALWAYS IN STYLE • Elvis has inspired generations of artists (and imitators) to celebrate their sartorial sensibilities with extroverted exuberance
Elvis: His Changing Style
PHOTO CREDITS