Although music may be her centerpiece, Franklin’s fashion and beauty looks can be heralded as equally iconic.
Aretha Franklin has died on Thursday at her home in Detroit, she was 76 years old. The prolific singer’s career spans over six decades, rightfully earning her the title “Queen of Soul.” Although music may be her centerpiece, Franklin’s fashion and beauty looks can be heralded as equally iconic.
Franklin’s style was extravagant, lavish, and befitting of a superstar. Although one of Franklin’s sartorial choices may not be as popular today — she loved wearing fur. She often wore luxurious fur coats on and off the stage, with intricately embroidered dresses threaded with beads and feathers. Franklin had a penchant for regal jewelry, too: statement jewel earrings, emerald rings, and pearl necklaces.
PHOTOS: See the icon’s style transformation
35 PHOTOS
Aretha Franklin’s Style Transformation
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Aretha Franklin’s Style Transformation
1963
A 21 year-old Franklin poses for a portrait, with classic ‘60’s hair.
1965
Aretha wore her hair much shorter in 1965.
1967
It’s all about the feathers and sky-high hair!
1968
Franklin’s hair is more low key here, to make way for a bright ensemble, complete with patterned stripes on voluminous sleeves.
1969
Aretha getting ready at Symphony Hall in a lovely cream lace dress.
1969
Aretha and this gentleman have 4 different patterns between the two of them!
1970
Grammy Award in hand, Franklin embraces the bold and sparkly in this attention-grabbing ensemble.
1975
A New ‘do and a fur coat keep Aretha stylish in the mid seventies.
1977
Aretha accessorized her white gown with a flower in her hair at the 1977 Grammy Awards.
1980
Back to the fur (and adding bangs!), Aretha is known as the “first lady of soul.”
1982
Aretha rocks a one-shouldered gown on stage in 1982, with ruffles the entire length of the dress.
1989
Her hair may be mellow but Aretha keeps the drama high in this bold white gown.
1990
Aretha in black, gold and red walks hand in hand with Clive Davis.
1992
Hello pattern! Aretha wore this leopard and zebra print jacket and matching cuff to the Arista Records Pre-Grammy Party.
1993
Clearly a fan of fur, Franklin performs at the Lincoln Memorial.
1994
Aretha’s hair is high and so is her hemline! She shows off her legs in this black and white dress at the Essence Awards.
