Prince’s Legendary ‘Purple Rain’ Shirt Goes Under The Hammer
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- November 25, 2023
A piece of music history, the iconic white, ruffled shirt worn by the legendary artist Prince during his 1985 ‘Purple Rain’ performance at the American Music Awards, is poised to command thousands at an RR Auction online event. This treasured garment, a hallmark of Prince’s extravagant wardrobe, is expected to draw fervent bidding from collectors and fans alike.
The shirt is a highlight among the 203 items collected by an avid French aficionado of the rock icon, known simply as Bertrand. This dedicated collector procured these items from Prince’s designers and other auction houses, originally intending to establish a museum in homage to the artist who passed away in 2016.
Synonymous with Prince’s inimitable style, the ruffled white shirt is a quintessential symbol of the ‘Purple Rain’ era. The garment features delicate faux-pearl buttons, an elegant high neck, and the distinctive shoulder pads that Prince was known for during his sweeping ‘Purple Rain’ tour. Despite its signs of wear, the shirt remains a priceless memento of the artist’s grandeur on stage.
This treasured piece of memorabilia, currently bidding at $15,000, was once part of the dazzling costumes that accompanied Prince’s electrifying performances across North America. Its provenance is as rich as its visual appeal, acquired directly from a designer who contributed to the ‘Purple Rain’ film and tour wardrobe.
Prince in Purple Rain
The auction, which includes an array of Prince’s personal effects such as jewelry, accessories, and his characteristic round-rimmed sunglasses, offers the public a rare opportunity to own a fragment of the legacy left by the artist. Each item tells a story, capturing moments from a career that redefined music and fashion.
As the auction draws to a close, interest surges, reflecting the deep emotional connection fans continue to hold for Prince. His sudden departure left a void in the music industry, but through these personal artifacts, his spirit endures. Collectors now have the chance to preserve a piece of the legend that was, and always will be, Prince.
Ntianu Obiora is a versatile creative professional with over a decade of experience in publishing, marketing, communications, and digital strategy. She is the Online Editor at THEWILL DOWNTOWN
