Monday, August 24, 2015

The Jumpsuits

When Elvis came back to performing on stage with the 1968 Comeback Special, he wanted to wear something that would allow him to move, feel comfortable and look stylish on stage. He worked with costume designer Bill Belew to create the looks. Bill would sketch styles for Elvis to approve. Once the designs were approved, the jumpsuits would begin getting made. Elvis wore jumpsuits once or several times. It all just depended on his mood and what he chose to go out on stage wearing. The more popular or well known jumpsuits are usually the highly documents ones. It didn't necessarily mean that he wore them over and over.

The majority of Elvis' jumpsuits came with a matching belt. However, there are some that had alternating belts which would help change the look of the suit. Elvis also had several two piece suits made that he would wear on stage. Under the stage lights, the suits could get a little hot and the belts would weigh down on Elvis. Once he was bestowed the attendance belt in Las Vegas, he would often incorporate that into his outfit. It is currently on display in Las Vegas at the Westgate (formerly the International) Hotel at the Elvis Experience Exhibit.

Many of Elvis' jumpsuits also had a matching cape that was detachable. He would usually enter the show wearing it and leave wearing it. The capes were often heavy so he would remove them for the duration of the show. Let's take a look at some of his jumpsuits...
The Black Cisco Kid Suit and Green Yokes 1974


Black Conquistador Suit








Every jumpsuit that Elvis wore on stage has been named. The above jumpsuits are just a sampling of the many that he wore in concert. One of the most well known suits worn by Elvis was the Peacock suit...
So what's your favorite Elvis jumpsuit? Is it one of the better known ones or an obscure one he wore only maybe once or twice? He brought a whole new level of cool to the stage.

3 comments:

Unknown said...

My favorite Elvis jumpsuits are the black ones. I just love them!

Cynthia said...

Definitely one of a kind!

Anonymous said...

The one I know most is the white one with the cape, the others we don't see as much.