Elton John, the iconic musician known for his extravagant outfits, has decided to sell his personal wardrobe on eBay for a fundraiser benefiting the Elton John Aids Foundation. The collection includes over 250 items ranging from colourful printed shirts by Gianni Versace to designer pieces from Yohji Yamamoto, Gucci, and Richard James. Elton John’s signature letter “E” can be found on items like a Gucci Varsity jacket and a pair of Prada loafers. The collection also features off-duty items like Adidas tracksuits and Versace dressing gowns, as well as concert merch such as a Gucci bag from his farewell tour and a T-shirt designed by Gianni Versace for his 1992-93 The One tour.
In addition to his own wardrobe, Elton John has asked his designer friends, including Donatella Versace, to donate items for the fundraiser auction. Donatella Versace’s pieces, like a pastel-coloured chain mail two-piece with safety pins, are expected to be popular among fashion enthusiasts and collectors. The auction is in line with Pride month and will run for 10 days to raise funds for the Elton John Aids Foundation.
Some items from the collection have already been sold, with highlights like a Gianni Versace ruffled shirt and a Gucci leather jacket. The auction has seen bids on items like a Versace jacket with lyrics from Elton John and Bernie Taupin. Elton John expressed his hope that the wardrobe pieces will inspire others to express their unique spirit and bring joy, while also supporting the foundation’s work to end LGBTQ+ stigma.
This isn’t the first time Elton John has sold off pieces from his wardrobe for charity. He and his husband, David Furnish, have previously auctioned items in 2000, 2006, and 2009. Stars like Charli XCX, Olivia Rodrigo, and Harry Lambert have also recently sold their wardrobes for good causes, but Elton John’s initiative stands out for its long history of charitable auctions.
Elton John has a history of successful auctions, including the Collection of Elton John: Out of the Closet auction at Christie’s earlier this year. Items like a green Mozart-style wig worn in concert in 1985 fetched over $4,000. This current wardrobe auction on eBay continues his legacy of using his iconic fashion pieces to raise funds for important causes.