Renowned for his bold and vibrant fashion sense, Boy George, 45 years after the emergence of Culture Club in the UK music scene, now describes himself as a ‘calmer chameleon.’ In an effort to embrace this new mindset, he is parting with over 370 items, including oversized hats, posters, and colorful costumes, through an auction at Julien’s Auctions in LA on July 14, titled Bold Luxury: Boy George Edit.
This auction is expected to attract fans of the iconic singer from around the globe, but potential buyers should be prepared with substantial funds, as many items are estimated to fetch tens of thousands of dollars. George, aged 65, known for his mantra ‘fashion for the fragile, style for the brave,’ views this auction as a way to bid farewell to the past after adopting the spiritual philosophy of ‘The Three Principles,’ a guide to mindfulness and well-being focusing on staying present.
Reflecting on the process of curating items for the auction, George finds it cathartic, bringing back cherished memories. He expresses excitement at the idea of these pieces finding new homes where they can be cherished while making room for fresh memories. Noting his ongoing love for collecting, he plans to continue shaping his pop culture style.
The auction collection offers a glimpse into George’s evolution from a club enthusiast to a fashion icon, featuring outfits worn for Culture Club album covers, music videos, tours, and TV appearances. Notable pieces include a pink ensemble by Dexter Wong, valued at $100,000, worn on the cover of the debut album ‘Colour by Numbers,’ which included the hit ‘Karma Chameleon.’
Among the treasures up for auction are a yellow outfit worn on a 1983 talk show appearance, a leather jacket from the London Blitz club era, hats by Philip Treacy and John Galliano, stage costumes from the musical Taboo, and awards from Q magazine. The collection also includes outfits by Vivienne Westwood and Jean Paul Gaultier, as well as a suit made for George’s late mother, who passed away in 2023.
George, who started his career in music at 17, reminisces about his DIY fashion beginnings, influenced by his mother’s sewing skills. He still enjoys creating his own clothes and blending high street finds into his unique style. While he relishes the opportunity to remain incognito in his everyday attire, he finds joy in the transformative power of dressing up.
Embracing The Three Principles during the COVID lockdown in 2020, George credits the philosophy for bringing calmness into his life and helping him shed anxiety. His newfound mindset allows him to approach public interactions with ease, focusing on being himself without fear or self-doubt.
In addition to the auction, Culture Club is set to perform at the Henley Festival on July 8 and embark on a UK tour titled ‘The Singles Tour’ in December. George will also take on the role of King Herod in the West End revival of Jesus Christ Superstar at the London Palladium in August. Moreover, a new adaptation of his 2002 musical, Taboo, capturing the vibrant 1980s club scene, is in development following his success in the Broadway production of Moulin Rouge.
Reflecting on his journey, George shares advice he would give his younger self, emphasizing the importance of breathing, smiling, and choosing happiness. As he looks forward to his upcoming projects, he exudes confidence and contentment, having come a long way from his early days in the music industry.