10 Iconic Music Video Props and Costumes That Found New Owners

Some of the most memorable music videos in history featured costumes and props that became just as famous as the songs themselves. Many of these items didn’t stay locked away in storage and instead found new homes with collectors, fans, and even museums. From iconic jackets to unforgettable stage outfits, these pieces continue to carry the legacy of the artists who wore them.

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Michael Jackson’s Red Jacket from “Thriller”

Michael Jackson’s red and black leather jacket from the Thriller video became one of the most recognized pieces in pop culture history. Designed by Deborah Nadoolman Landis, it perfectly matched the energy of the groundbreaking dance sequence that defined the video. When it went to auction, the jacket drew enormous attention from fans worldwide who saw it as more than clothing—it was a piece of music history.

The jacket eventually sold to a Texas gold trader for over $1.8 million, proving its unmatched appeal to collectors. For the buyer, it wasn’t just a garment but a symbol of the King of Pop’s creative era. Even today, it remains a reminder of how fashion and music can combine to create unforgettable cultural moments.

Kurt Cobain’s Green Cardigan from MTV Unplugged

Kurt Cobain’s oversized green cardigan from Nirvana’s MTV Unplugged performance carries a deep emotional weight for fans. The performance was one of the last major appearances of Cobain before his death, making the sweater an especially personal relic. Its worn condition, with a missing button and burn hole, only added to its authenticity and significance.

When it was auctioned, the cardigan sold for $334,000, far beyond the expected price. Collectors valued it not just as clothing, but as a symbol of Cobain’s raw and vulnerable artistry. Its unwashed state was preserved, giving it a haunting closeness to the late musician.

Lady Gaga’s Meat Dress

Lady Gaga shocked the world when she wore a dress made entirely of raw beef to the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards. The outfit instantly became a global headline, sparking debates about fashion, art, and performance. While controversial, it captured Gaga’s talent for turning shock value into cultural conversation.

After its use, the meat dress was preserved using a drying and taxidermy process. It eventually found a permanent home in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The dress remains one of the most bizarre yet unforgettable music-related garments ever displayed.

Michael Jackson’s White Glove

Michael Jackson’s rhinestone-studded white glove is perhaps the single most famous prop linked to his career. Worn during “Billie Jean” performances and seen in videos, it became an extension of his persona. Its sparkle and unique design turned it into a symbol of individuality and stage presence.

One of the gloves eventually sold at auction for $350,000. The buyer, an Asian collector, gained not just an accessory but one of pop’s most enduring icons. Few single items represent a musician’s brand as perfectly as Jackson’s glove.

Prince’s White “Ruffled Shirt” from “Purple Rain”

Prince’s white ruffled shirt from the Purple Rain video and film highlighted his flair for theatrical fashion. The look was both romantic and bold, reflecting the film’s mix of vulnerability and charisma. Fans quickly associated the garment with his unforgettable stage persona.

The shirt was later auctioned for nearly $100,000. Collectors regarded it as a tangible piece of Prince’s groundbreaking artistry. Even decades later, the ruffled shirt carries the same visual punch it did when he first wore it on screen.

Elton John’s Sequined Dodgers Uniform

Elton John’s sequined Dodgers uniform, worn during his legendary 1975 Dodger Stadium concert, became one of his most beloved outfits. Its sparkle and oversized style captured the flamboyance that defined his stage shows. While it was seen more in live concerts than a single video, footage of the outfit cemented it as iconic.

When the costume went to auction, it sold for a significant amount to a private collector. For many, it represented Elton at the peak of his stardom. Today, it continues to be celebrated as one of his most recognizable looks.

Slash’s Top Hat

Slash’s top hat became a signature part of his image in Guns N’ Roses music videos such as “Sweet Child O’ Mine.” Paired with his sunglasses and long curly hair, the look became instantly recognizable. Unlike other costumes, this accessory helped define his entire persona.

One of his hats eventually changed hands in a private sale. For collectors, owning it meant possessing a piece of rock’s most iconic visual style. The top hat remains a simple yet powerful piece of rock memorabilia.

Freddie Mercury’s Crown and Royal Cape

Freddie Mercury often closed Queen concerts wearing a crown and royal cape, which appeared in live videos of “We Are the Champions.” The regal imagery emphasized his command of the stage. Fans adored the way he balanced camp with charisma.

After Mercury’s passing, these items were eventually auctioned. Their sale gave collectors a chance to own a piece of his theatrical brilliance. The crown and cape remain enduring symbols of Freddie’s legendary stage presence.

David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust Jumpsuit

David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust jumpsuit is one of the most recognizable costumes in rock history. The bold colors and tight fit reflected the glam rock era of the early 1970s. It was an essential part of Bowie’s most famous persona.

One of the original jumpsuits was purchased by a Japanese collector. Later, it appeared in traveling exhibitions celebrating Bowie’s career. For fans, the garment symbolizes his fearless approach to identity and performance.

Janet Jackson’s Military Jacket from “Rhythm Nation”

Janet Jackson’s black military-style jacket from Rhythm Nation became a cornerstone of her visual identity in the 1980s. The sharp design highlighted the song’s message of unity and discipline. In the video, the outfit made her choreography even more impactful.

When it surfaced at auction, collectors jumped at the chance to claim it. The jacket remains a representation of one of pop’s most socially conscious videos. Its influence can still be seen in fashion inspired by music icons.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.