Freddie Mercury, Queen - Live At Wembley Stadium 12 July 1986
Freddie Mercury, the legendary frontman of Queen, was not only known for his powerful vocals and flamboyant stage presence but also for his unique and daring fashion sense. He defied gender norms and pushed boundaries with his outfits, becoming a fashion icon who continues to inspire and influence artists and fashion lovers alike. His looks became so iconic that people have been clamouring and even fighting for a chance to own some of his possessions in an auction of his personal collection, hoping to take home a piece of history. His bold and unapologetic style is why so many of his get-ups have remained in the cultural consciousness for decades, making him one of the most recognisable music legends ever. Though he’s worn many legendary items, here are some of his most iconic pieces:
Leotards
During the 1970s, Freddie Mercury often wore ballet-inspired leotards that became synonymous with him and the band. He often wore a black-and-white harlequin leotard with a deep neckline during their performances in the late ’70s. He wore another black-and-white striped one under a leather jacket during the band’s 1979 performance at Live Aid. A crystal-studded one caught eyes under the spotlights in true dramatic and glamorous Freddie Mercury fashion. Many of these one-pieces have solidified their place in rock history.
Aviator sunglasses
Like any rockstar, Freddie Mercury was often seen sporting a stylish pair of shades. His star-shaped frames in the music video for “We Will Rock You” or the neon green and black wraparound sunglasses for “The Invisible Man” hark back to his love of flamboyant fashion. Aside from the eccentric eyewear, he was also a fan of classic designer sunglasses, which gave him a luxe look thanks to their expert craftsmanship. The Ray-Ban Aviators, in particular, became a quintessential part of his look, especially in the 1980s. These timeless sunglasses gave him a cool rockstar edge while still offering cool sophistication. He wore various Aviator-style frames throughout his career, sometimes with mirrored or coloured lenses for an elevated look. His shades became so iconic that Sotheby’s put them up for auction along with his other famous fashion pieces.
Royal cloak and crown
Other iconic pieces that were up for auction were Freddie Mercury’s royal cloak and crown. This regal ensemble was designed by Diana Moseley and worn throughout the Queen Magic tour in 1986. The lush red velvet cape and the glittering crown made with imitation gold and jewels—both lined with faux fur— truly fit his status as rock royalty, giving him a luxurious vibe. But the look wasn’t all prim and proper; in true rockstar fashion, he often wore the get-up over nothing but white trousers and trainers, giving it a rebellious and theatrical touch the singer has long been known for.
Yellow military jacket
Freddie Mercury’s yellow military jacket, designed by fashion designer Zandra Rhode, has become one of his most recognisable pieces. This bright yellow jacket with epaulettes and a sash was a bold statement piece that Mercury often wore over an all-white outfit, like at their electric performance at Wembley concert in 1986. The image of him standing on stage, his yellow jacket on, and his fist high and triumphant in the air is unforgettable, touching, and likely a picture most people think of when his name is mentioned. This item has been immortalised in countless monuments, artwork, and even miniature figurines. It’s a piece that screams “Freddie Mercury”, and its uniqueness and connection to him as an artist can’t be replicated by anyone else.
These are just a few of the many iconic pieces that make up Freddie Mercury’s unique and unforgettable fashion legacy. His bold choices and willingness to push boundaries have touched people across generations. It’s this legacy that Queen has been aiming to preserve and honour. Even after more than 50 years since the band’s inception, the rest of the members, Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon, still hope to touch audiences and listeners with Freddie Mercury’s music and life.
Being a bit older than your average Queen fan, I remember Freddie minus the mustache and a large mane of hair on his head. Seeing them live in the early seventies in smaller more intimate locations was thrilling. I will grant you that the yellow jacket on the Magic tour is what most people will remember. He was one of the best front men to grace the stages of many great venues.