Prince’s Most Iconic Outfits: The Stories Behind the Style

When you think of Prince, what immediately comes to mind? The electric guitar solos, the silky falsetto, and of course, the unforgettable style. Prince wasn’t just a musical genius—he was a fashion icon who redefined what it meant to dress with boldness, flamboyance, and absolute confidence. From his legendary “Purple Rain” trench coat to the playful charm of the “Raspberry Beret” look, each outfit told a story and became an integral part of his artistic identity. Let’s dive into the most iconic Prince outfits and uncover the fascinating stories behind the style.

The Purple Rain Trench Coat: A Symbol of Royalty and Reinvention

We can’t talk about Prince’s signature style without mentioning the iconic purple trench coat from the 1984 film Purple Rain. This wasn’t just a costume—it was a statement. Purple symbolized royalty, spirituality, and creativity, perfectly mirroring Prince’s persona. The coat was custom-made with a mix of leather and suede elements and featured exaggerated shoulders and a flowing silhouette, blending rock aesthetics with aristocratic flair.

The purple trench became an emblem of the era and of Prince himself—mysterious, powerful, and a little bit extravagant. When he donned this coat during live performances, it transformed him into the electric, almost otherworldly performer fans came to adore. This look cemented Prince’s status as a fearless fashion risk-taker who did not conform to traditional gender or style norms.

Raspberry Beret: The Playful, Whimsical Era

Fast forward to 1985, and Prince’s style shifted in tune with the breezy, upbeat vibe of his hit song “Raspberry Beret.” This look was less about grandeur and more about charm—a pastel palette and a signature raspberry-colored hat captured the playful spirit of mid-80s pop culture.

What made this look so iconic was its accessibility and the way it contrasted with his previous edgier outfits. The raspberry beret became a must-have accessory, inspiring fans everywhere to embrace a softer, more colorful aesthetic while still channeling Prince’s unmistakable charisma. The “Raspberry Beret” era proved Prince could still be fashion-forward while inviting a broader audience into his vivid world.

The Eye Symbol: Mystery and Meaning

Beyond colors and silhouettes, Prince loved incorporating symbolic elements into his wardrobe that hinted at his deeper philosophies. One such detail was the “eye” symbol, which he wore as a ring, belt buckle, and jacket embellishment.

This wasn’t just for show—the eye symbol has roots in mysticism, often associated with protection, insight, and revelation. Prince’s use of the eye symbol hinted at his interest in spirituality and his role as an artist who sees beyond the surface. When he rocked outfits featuring this detail, it added an intriguing layer of enigma to his stage presence, leaving fans and fashion critics alike buzzing about the meaning behind the style.

High Fashion Meets Androgyny: Breaking Boundaries

Prince’s style was groundbreaking because it challenged the conventional definitions of masculinity and fashion. He mixed elements traditionally seen as feminine—lace, ruffles, and velvet—with masculine staples like tailored jackets and boots. His bold use of color, texture, and silhouette created a new fashion lexicon rooted in self-expression and freedom.

Take, for example, his famed custom suits often adorned with ruffled shirts or sparkling sequins. These glamorous ensembles made headlines and influenced generations of artists, pushing the needle on how rock stars could dress. He refused to be boxed in by gender norms, inspiring fans to embrace fashion as a playground of creativity.

Love Symbol Era: Reinventing Identity Through Fashion

In the early 1990s, Prince went through a phase that was as much about reinvention as it was about music, adopting the unpronounceable “Love Symbol” as his name. During this time, his outfits evolved dramatically, combining futuristic elements with classical flamboyance.

One memorable outfit from this era was a metallic bodysuit with intricate cutouts and embellishments. It felt like a plea to the future—a melding of fantasy, technology, and artistry. His daring looks during the Love Symbol era weren’t just fashion statements; they were declarations of independence from the music industry and his own rebirth as an artist.

The Purple Jumpsuit: A Stage Staple

Of course, we can’t forget the purple jumpsuit—a go-to stage look for Prince in many tours and performances. The jumpsuit’s sleek design amplified his energetic presence, allowing for freedom of movement and a striking silhouette.

What made the purple jumpsuit stand out was the way it combined sex appeal with regality. As purple became synonymous with Prince, he used this color to reinforce his brand on stage—shimmering, tight-fitting, and always commanding attention. The jumpsuit was a perfect example of how his outfits complemented his dynamic performances without overshadowing his raw talent.

Why Prince’s Style Still Resonates Today

Prince’s influence on fashion is undeniable and continues to inspire artists and fans more than four decades after his debut. His fearless approach to style—fusing music, theater, and boldness—helped break barriers in gender expression and artistic authenticity.

In today’s world, where gender-fluid and self-expressive fashion is trending, Prince’s legacy feels more relevant than ever. Whether you’re channeling a vintage Purple Rain vibe or drawing inspiration from his avant-garde pieces, his style remains a beacon of individuality.

Final Thoughts

Prince was so much more than a musician—he was a visual artist whose wardrobe choices were carefully curated to amplify his mystique and message. From the legendary purple trench coat to the charming raspberry beret, each outfit stitched a story into pop culture history.

So next time you think about Prince, remember it wasn’t just about the music. It was about the fearless fashion, the symbolism, and most importantly—the confidence to be unapologetically YOU. Because when it comes to Prince’s style, every piece was more than just clothes—it was an iconic chapter in the story of an unforgettable legend.

By: koalafriend