Lately, it looks like the pop music world’s biggest and most obscure players alike have been in a competition to one-up each other in flamboyant, out-there-ness. We look at some of our favorite crazies, old and new.
The originator: Grace Jones
The queen of androgyny revolutionized pop music in the ’80s dressed in exaggerated shoulder pads and body-conscious clothing (both of which are key ideas for fall).
The offspring: Ebony Bones
Japanese animé, African graphic prints and larger than life geometric shapes make up the British singer’s trademark look. Massive afro puffs and kewpie doll-style makeup are the icing on her sartorial cake.
The offspring: Lady Gaga
Grace Jones may have done that whole “no pants” thing decades ago, but the pop songwriter-turned-singer has co-opted it and made the look her own. Unlike Jones, though, Gaga can occasionally stray into silly territory such as a Jean Charles de Castlebajac-designed bolero jacket made of plush Kermit the Frog toys.
The originator: Bjork
Showing up to the Academy Awards draped in an oversized swan pretty much sealed her place in crazy music fashion history. Other memorable outfits include an ensemble from her Volta tour that included an oversized dress that resembled aluminum foil and a headdress made of giant, fluorescent fur pompoms. Fun stuff.
The offspring: Karen O (Yeah Yeah Yeahs)
Not to be outdone in the headgear department, Karen O wowed crowds at Lollapollooza in a full-on Native American style piece and matching tunic. And that outfit was pretty tamed compared to some of her others (metallic, fringed capes, gold mini dresses with massive hanging discs, you name it.)
