Madonna has been a global pop star since the release of her self-titled studio album in 1983. Over the past four decades, she has become one of the most recognized figures in the music industry. On her 65th birthday, we celebrate Madonna’s impact on fashion and her longstanding relationship with the industry.
During her “Blonde Ambition Tour” in 1990, Madonna shocked audiences by revealing a pale pink conical bra designed by Jean Paul Gaultier. This iconic moment helped catapult Gaultier to household name status and solidified his ongoing partnership with Madonna. He also created many of the androgynous and camp looks that defined Madonna’s style during that era.
Madonna’s music video for “Like a Prayer” faced controversy upon its release, as it explored themes of sensuality, religion, and race. In the video, she wore a cleavage-baring black slip dress accessorized with a cross pendant. The dress, sourced from Los Angeles’ Western Costume Company, became the face of a banned video in Italy and condemned by The Vatican.
In her music video for the song “Vogue,” Madonna displayed her true understanding of fashion. She donned an ivory satin floor-length gown with cascading rhinestone drops on the back. The gown, from the Palace Costume Co. label, later sold at auction for $179,200 in 2020. “Vogue” not only became a staple on fashion month runways but also brought voguing and ballroom culture into the mainstream.
Madonna has always embraced an androgynous style, blending masculine and feminine elements in her outfits. One of her most memorable androgynous looks was at the 2003 MTV Video Music Awards when she performed her song “Hollywood.” She emerged from a wedding cake in a black tuxedo with a top hat, black boots, and a bustier, kissing Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera on stage. This moment became one of the most talked-about events in MTV VMA history.
Madonna’s influence on celebrity styling cannot be overstated. She transformed the relationship between fashion houses and celebrities throughout the ’90s and beyond. Designers like Jean-Paul Gaultier, Gianni Versace, Stella McCartney, Olivier Theyskens, and Rick Owens have all collaborated with Madonna, showcasing their designs and boosting their careers.
As Madonna celebrates 40 years in the spotlight, we recognize her immense impact on the fashion industry and her ability to push boundaries and redefine the relationship between music and style.