3 of the Most Famous Articles of Clothing in Music History

Most musicians attempt to cultivate an image. This can be done in many ways, but the quickest way is through outward appearance–i.e. what they are wearing. Many musicians have songs that feature a particular item of clothing. Moreover, those items have become almost as famous as them. Check out three of the most famous clothing callouts in music, below.

Videos by American Songwriter

Coat of Many Colors – Dolly Parton

While Dolly Parton can’t be credited with coming up with the “Coat of Many Colors,” she certainly is one of its biggest touters. Inspired by the biblical story of Joseph, Parton sings about her mother gifting her a look-a-like coat. Part Bible story and part heartwarming snapshot from Parton’s childhood, this country classic featuring an article of clothing is timeless for a reason.

As she sewed, she told a story
From the Bible she had read
About a coat of many colors
Joseph wore and then she said
Perhaps this coat will bring you
Good luck and happiness
And I just couldn’t wait to wear it
And momma blessed it with a kiss

Raspberry Beret – Prince

Prince had no trouble sexually charging his music. One of his most seductive tracks is “Raspberry Beret.” In the lyrics, the rocker sings about a woman wearing the titular item–and not much else…It’s a veiled piece of innuendo and perhaps one of the most unique. At any rate, it remains one of the most famous articles of clothing from music history.

She wore a
Raspberry beret
The kind you find in a second hand store
Raspberry beret
And if it was warm she wouldn’t wear much more
Raspberry beret
I think I love her

Blue Suede Shoes – Elvis Presley

Few things are as indicative of ’50s rock as Elvis Presley’s “Blue Suede Shoes.” If you want to look like a rock trailblazer, you need only a pair of this fancy footwear. While this song has transcended the shoe itself, few members of the younger generation would even know about this article of clothing if not for Presley and his era-defining music.

Well, it’s one for the money two for the show
Three to get ready now go, cat, go

But don’t you step on my blue suede shoes
Well you can do anything but
Lay off of my blue suede shoes

(Photo by VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images)