Elvis: The King of Fashion (Hardback)
Imprint: White Owl
Pages: 224
Illustrations: Colour Plates
ISBN: 9781399049849
Published: 4th September 2024
Last Released: 5th December 2024
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A highly engaging homage to the iconic style of Elvis Presley, who shook up the world of music and fashion, triggering a cultural revolution that stopped 1950s America in its tracks.
Born into poverty, his voice of liquid gold and show-stopping appearance propelled him into a life of extreme wealth.
Elvis’s extraordinary story – told through a fashion lens – celebrates the shy, lonely boy who awakened an entire generation to forbidden fruit.
The defiant hair, the sultry good looks, the gender-ambivalent outfits – even the famous sideburns of the man who would be King – are all considered in loving detail.
From impoverished scamp and teenage antihero in pink, through Hollywood heartthrob and sensual leather-clad rock star, to caped superhero in Vegas jumpsuits, the author describes his clothes with as much joy as she does his journey through the decades.
A contemporary take on the evolution of Elvis the Showman, featuring interviews with people who knew, met and dressed him, and analysis of the 2022 hit movie, Elvis.
A rags-to-riches tale, forged in the hardship and music of the poor South, it personifies the American Dream, retold with style by an author raised on Elvis’s songs and movies and who walked in his shoes through Memphis to discover they really were two-toned.
Set in a fascinating period in time, it looks at his powerful legacy, preserved by his devoted fans, and the films and tributes still being produced in his honour today.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
NetGalley, Nessa Thompson
What a beautiful cover Elvis: The King of Fashion by Lorraine Gibson is and what a wonderful book to read and a great book for Elvis fans out there. It was a very interesting read and I loved learning new things about someone who was a part of my growing up life in the 70's with my parents and grandad who were big fan's of Elvis.
I highly recommend this book a great pressie for new or existing fans.
There have been countless books about the King of rock ‘n’ roll, but never one about his role as the king of fashion. If you’ve read all the other books and are hungry for some finer sartorial detail, this is the book for you. If you haven’t read a single book about Elvis, this one will work too, for Lorraine Gibson has turned the story of Presley’s clothing style into the story of his life, weaving all the essential details about his childhood, career and untimely demise into the tale of his daring and provocative style choices, which grabbed attention from the first pair of pink peg trousers.
The Chap
I thoroughly enjoyed Elvis: The King of Fashion. It is a well-constructed, entertaining and colorful read.
Elvis Information Network
Read the full review here!
In Elvis: The King of Fashion, Lorraine Gibson takes us on a stylishly thrilling ride through the life and wardrobe of none other than the King himself. While most books focus on Elvis’s music, Gibson zeroes in on the rhinestones, leather, and those iconic sideburns that helped define not just a man, but an entire cultural revolution. And believe me, there’s more to Elvis’s wardrobe than Vegas jumpsuits (though those do get their well-deserved moment in the spotlight).
NetGalley, Chelsea Dugan
>From the shy Southern boy with a rebellious pink jacket to the leather-clad rock god who owned every stage he touched, Elvis’s fashion evolution mirrors his personal and musical journey. Gibson has a lot of fun with this, describing his looks in loving detail—sometimes so vividly, you can almost see the sequins glimmering off the page. The book reads like a joyful celebration of how one man’s defiant, gender-bending style challenged the stiff conformity of 1950s America. And you’ve got to admire how she weaves in interviews with those who knew and dressed him, offering behind-the-scenes glimpses of the person behind the persona.
While the book is dripping in style, there’s a touch of substance here, too. Gibson ties Elvis’s fashion choices to his rise from rags to riches, connecting his unique look with the broader story of the American Dream. Elvis wasn’t just another pretty face in a flashy suit—he was a symbol of rebellion, freedom, and transformation. The analysis of the 2022 Elvis movie adds a nice contemporary twist, helping tie his enduring legacy to modern times.
Absolutely loved this book. An interesting read about the fashion choices that Elvis made. While telling his story the focus is on the clothes he wore and the unique style that he had.
NetGalley, Sandra Salas
Elvis: The King of Fashion is a perfect book for any Elvis fan. This book tells the story how not only was Elvis the king of Rock n Roll but he was a fashion icon! Elvis opened up a whole new whole to fashion during his time to not only clothing, but also his hairstyle and more!
NetGalley, Audra Vanhorn
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
NetGalley, Anneliese Place
Elvis: The King of Fashion by Lorraine Gibson struck a chord with me, and I'm excited to share why it's a must-read for any fan of The King.
As someone who lives and breathes rock 'n' roll, I've always been captivated by the style and swagger of the legends who paved the way. And let's be honest, no one embodied rock 'n' roll style quite like Elvis Presley.
Elvis: The King Of Fashion dives deep into the evolution of his iconic fashion sense. From the moment he wandered into Lansky's on Beale Street as a teenager, Elvis began crafting a look that would define not just his career but an entire generation. Gibson's exploration of his style journey—from the pink suits and sultry leather to those unforgettable rhinestone jumpsuits—offers a fresh perspective on how Elvis used fashion as a form of self-expression and rebellion.
This book stands out because it blends Elvis's fashion evolution with his personal story. We all know the rags-to-riches tale of the boy from Tupelo who became the King of Rock' n' Roll, but seeing it through the lens of his fashion choices adds a whole new layer to his legacy. It's fascinating to learn how each outfit and hairstyle was more than just a look—it was a statement, a way for Elvis to stand out in a world that wasn't ready for someone like him.
As a lifelong fan of Elvis, I found myself smiling at the anecdotes and reminiscing about how his style has influenced my wardrobe over the years. There's something timeless about how Elvis dressed, and Gibson captures that essence beautifully. Whether it's his defiant hair or those famous sideburns, every detail is considered with love and respect.
Gibson emphasizes Elvis's role as an architect of his success. He wasn't just following trends—he was setting them. And in doing so, he became the blueprint for countless others daring to be different. His fashion wasn't just about clothes but about identity, confidence, and breaking down barriers. That message still rings true today, especially for those of us who continue challenging the norms in our lives.
If you're an Elvis fan, a fashion lover, or someone who appreciates the intersection of music and style, Elvis: The King of Fashion is a book you need on your shelf. It's a celebration of the man who wasn't just the King of Rock' n' Roll—he was the King of Fashion, too. So grab a copy, slip into your blue suede shoes, and get ready to be inspired by the one and only Elvis Presley.
As seen in '“I’m all shook up” says Lorraine as her new book on music legend Elvis receives glowing reviews'.
Dorset Biz News
Read the article here!
As seen in '“I’m all shook up” says Lorraine as her new book on Elvis receives glowing reviews'.
Bournemouth One
Read the article here!
I wasn’t quite sure what this book would be about. I have read a few Elvis books and they have all been pretty good. This one was as well! I was pleasantly surprised with the amount of information and multiple resources this book contained. Not only was it about his clothing, but it gave an inside look from a different perspective than I have read before.
NetGalley, Cindy McCarter
The clothing shop, Lansky’s, in Memphis Tennessee, is where it all began. Elvis wandered into the shop when he was a teenager and fell in love with the style of clothing they had. Lansky’s was his go-to place for outfits for years. The store was located on the very famous Beale Street and was popular for decades to come. Gibson shared wonderful pictures with us and I learned a few things about Elvis that I didn’t know before. What a fun and entertaining read.
I have always loved Elvis. With that being said, this was such a well written and detailed book! I love fashion, I love vintage times and Elvis. It was perfect. It didn’t only focus on his fashion, but his upbringing and history. There are so many facts, I did not know about! His original house was only $180?! Insane. It told stories of his addiction, his struggles and so much more. I loved hearing about his family, even though it’s a sad story to tell. If you’re a fan of Elvis and love hearing about life in that decade, I’d highly recommend!
NetGalley, Emma Redd
As seen in 'Scots author takes a close look at King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s iconic style'.
The Sunday Post
As seen in
The New Stour and Avon Magazine
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
NetGalley, Heatherly Ardito
Elvis: The King of Fashion is a perfect book for any Elvis fan. This book tells the story how not only was Elvis the king of Rock n Roll but he was a fashion icon! Elvis opened up a whole new whole to fashion during his time to not only clothing, but also his hairstyle and more!
Lorraine Gibson shares the evolution of Elvis' attire throughout the years. Through jumpsuits, leathers, rhinestones, and capes.
Elvis was definitely not only the King of Rock n Roll, he was the King of fashion as well and has influenced generations even to this day.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
NetGalley, Michelle Dawn
Author Lorraine Gibson’s book pays homage to not only Elvis’ style, but his literal rags to riches story, featuring interviews and an in-depth look of the 2022 movie. This is a must-have for any Elvis fan, and I’ll be preordering the hardcover edition.
As seen in 'From the South Coast to the Deep South in search of the real Elvis'.
The BV Magazine
Read the article here!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
NetGalley, Kelsey Vogeney
What a fantastic book!! From the beginning to the end it was just such wonderful knowledge of such a hero. I was amazed at all of the information brought in this book. I loved it!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
NetGalley, Jill Speedman (Librarian)
Love this book that celebrates the fashion of Elvis! I’ve always been so fascinated by his style and I know many others do as well! Beautifully put together and a must for any fan!
As seen on Sincerely Elvis Presley - watch the video here!
YouTube, Sincerely Elvis Presley
As seen in 'Author's Burning Love of all things Elvis'.
The West Dorset Magazine
Read the article here!
As featured in
Jewish News
As featured in
The Bournemouth Directory
Author interview on BBC Radio Solent.
BBC Radio Solent
About Lorraine Gibson
LORRAINE GIBSON is an award-winning journalist of more than twenty years, who cut her writing teeth on her local newspaper. She is widely published in both regional and national titles and is now a freelance writer. She is also the author of Robert Baden-Powell: A Biography (Pen & Sword History, 2022).
Elvis: The King of Fashion arises from childhood memories of her parents playing Elvis records and of watching his films through the school holidays. The films ignited Lorraine’s fascination with the colourful outfits that he wore. Who needed a Sindy doll when you had a singing, dancing Elvis in Hawaiian shirts, Latin boleros, uniforms, sharp suits and prison outfits? Later, it was the iconic fashion looks that Elvis wore through the decades that captured her imagination. So, when pressed by her family about who she would write about after Baden-Powell, she decided it had to be Elvis.
She travelled to Memphis, Tennessee, where Elvis suddenly leapt to fame in the early 1950s. She soaked up its unique atmosphere, walked in Elvis’s footsteps, visited his old haunts and his homes and met endless interesting, welcoming and helpful people, many of whom contributed to her book. Elvis: The King of Fashion is the result.
Lorraine lives in Dorset with her husband, two teenage daughters and Florence, the cat.
Elvis born Jan 8th 1935
8th January 1935
Born this day: 1935, January 8 After an emotionally fraught entrance into the world – a world that was no more than a wooden hut on a scrap of dirt in Tupelo, Mississippi – Elvis Aron Presley, the baby who would be King, let out his first wail. Home was far from regal, but to his parents, Vernon Elvis and Gladys Love Presley, the little house was a palace. A typical shotgun shack, it was narrower than it was long, divided into two rooms arranged one behind the other and dissected by a long corridor with a door at either end. The construction permitted a cool breeze on a hot day or, should you feel inclined, a gun to be shot clear through to the other side – hence the name.
Elvis just 19 gets all shook up at his first, live professional appearance at Overton Park Shell arena in Memphis
30th July 1954
Elvis just 19 gets all shook up at his first, live professional appearance at Overton Park Shell arena in Memphis. Advertised as a Hillbilly Hoedown, he shared the bill with one of the biggest country states of the time, Slim Whitman. The show started with Elvis, and his musicians, Scotty and Bill performing That's All Right (Mama). Elvis was so nervous he stood on the balls of his feet which made his legs shake and, to his horror, the girls in the audience went crazy. When Elvis asked why people were yelling at him, he was told it was because his leg shaking was causing a motion commotion in his trousers!
Elvis signs his first, life-changing contract with RCA Records
20th November 1955
Elvis signs his first, life-changing contract with RCA Records in the historic Peabody Hotel, Memphis. Colonel Tom Parker negotiates the sale of Elvis's Sun contract to RCA, which includes his five Sun singles and other early Elvis songs that are unreleased Sun material. The price is an unprecedented $35,000, with a $5,000 bonus for Elvis. Not yet old enough to legally sign the agreement, Elvis’s proud parents signed on his behalf.
Elvis releases his now iconic debut album, simply called Elvis Presley
13th April 1956
Elvis releases his now iconic debut album, simply called Elvis Presley, which becomes the first in history to sell a million copies and stays in the Billboard chart for 68 weeks. He also releases a string of hits, including Heartbreak Hotel, which also goes on to sell a million copies.
RCA releases Elvis Presley's single "Hound Dog"
13th July 1956
RCA releases Elvis Presley's single "Hound Dog", a cover of Big Mama Thorton's original, written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, backed with "Don't Be Cruel", written by Otis Blackwell
Elvis is introduced to Priscilla Beaulieu
13th September 1956
While serving in the army in Bad Nauheim in Germany , Elvis is introduced to an American officer’s daughter called Priscilla Beaulieu. Elvis is 24 and Priscilla, who is too nervous to say much and then goes home, is 14. After a series meetings and talks with her parents, they become close but Elvis is soon back in America having finished his Army service. He contacts Priscilla eventually and, controversially she visits Elvis in America. They go on to form a serious and relationship and will finally marry.
Ten years after its release, Elvis’s seminal debut album, simply entitled Elvis Presley is certified as a Platinum Disc after selling a million copies.
1st October 1966
Ten years after its release, Elvis’s seminal debut album, simply entitled Elvis Presley, is certified as a Platinum Disc after selling a million copies. The distinctive, yet unsophisticated album cover, with its fuzzy, monochrome image of a young Elvis in full roar and wielding his guitar at a concert and bright pink and green letters spelling out his name, is so iconic that many musicians have emulated the style.
Elvis and Priscilla get married
1st May 1967
More than seven years after they first met, Elvis and Priscilla get married in an intimate, private ceremony organised by Elvis’s manager, Col Tom Parker at the Aladdin Hotel, Las Vegas. The bride’s white dress, a demure, high necked, empire-line shaped satin design with lace and seeded pearl yoke and puffed sleeves was pure late ’60s. The veil was a huge cloud of the finest, barely-there organza, topped by a cute, diamond encrusted tiara in the shape of a mini crown. The King’s Queen. Her hair was a multi-story beehive, her eyes defined by thick black eyeliner and her lashes tarantualan – just how Elvis liked it. The groom wore traditional-meets-rockstar with a glistening black, deeply brocaded suit with satin revers, white shirt and large bowtie.
Priscilla gives birth to a baby girl
1st February 1968
1968, February 1, Nine months from their wedding day, Priscilla gives birth to a healthy baby girl. The couple are overjoyed with their little princess and name her Lisa Marie.
Elvis Presley's Comeback Special airs on NBC
3rd December 1968
Elvis Presley's Comeback Special airs on NBC, his 1st live performance in seven years, re-launching his singing career
Elvis signs up to a series of concerts in Las Vegas
31st July 1969
Elvis takes Vegas. After almost a decade of not singing or performing live, Elvis signs up to a series of concerts at the International Hotel, Las Vegas. A solo performer, it’s down to him to plan everything and he methodically crafts a show that includes the country’s top musicians and backing singers and the hotel’s resident orchestra. Opening night is a sell-out and reviews are ecstatic, as the tanned and lean 34-year-old walks nonchalantly on stage in dark karate gi-inspired two-piece suit, smiles and then rips in to a rebooted version of Blue Suede Shoes. It’s a runaway success, breaking attendance records – which earns him his famous gold belt - and goes down in Vegas history as the most spectacular and successful show of its time – ultimately changing the way in which audiences are entertained.
Elvis holds a press conference before performing the first of his four concerts at Madison Square Gardens
9th June 1972
Elvis, deeply tanned and dressed in a sky-blue caped suit, floral shirt and his favourite gold belt, holds a press conference before performing the first of his four concerts at Madison Square Gardens, New York. Singing to more than 80,000 people at he made history by becoming the first entertainer to sell out four consecutive shows at the famous venue.
Elvis Presley's Death
16th August 1977
August 16, 1977 Elvis leaves the building – Elvis, whose daughter, Lisa Marie has been staying with him over the school holidays, is preparing to go on tour when he is found dead on the floor of his bathroom at Graceland. His cause of death is announced as a heart attack, but the later autopsy cites an overdose of drugs and other genetic medical issues.
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