These five artists are famous not only for their epic music careers, but for their iconic sense of style and fashion.

Freddie Mercury

With his printed bodysuits, embellished jackets, and flamboyant hats, Freddie Mercury created a look that was unique and memorable. His style has survived the ages with countless artists taking inspiration from his signature fashion sense. Lady Gaga, Adam Lambert, and Katy Perry have all tried to emulate the Queen frontman’s flashy aesthetic. In 2005, Portugal-based designer Miguel Vieira sent a Freddie Mercury-inspired collection down the runway complete with silver chain jewelry and open frilly shirts. Freddie’s sartorial influence has crossed borders and transcended generations, asserting his high rank in fashion history.

Debbie Harry

Debbie Harry’s look was part Marilyn, part punk, creating the perfect combination of sex and edge. In addition to her famous ensembles (including a Stephen Sprouse frock worn in her “Heart of Glass” music video), the punk singer’s unique mane got her quite a bit of attention. With the locks on the back of her head a darker blonde than the front, Debbie became the postergirl for two tone hair. Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw sported a similar style in season 3 of the hit HBO show, perhaps inspired by the New York punk scene darling.

Prince

Prince was truly the pioneer of 80s glam. His look embodied the decade of excess: from bell bottom pants to Edwardian ruffled blouses, Prince understood that more is more. This champion of men’s heels wasn’t afraid to think outside the fashion box and try something that nobody had done before. As a result, shock factor definitely played a role in Prince’s fashion sense (MTV Music Awards, 1991 – need I say more?). Not much has changed in the way of Prince’s personal style since the 80s: the flare of his pants may be more subdued and his ruffled shirts less voluminous, but his look is still unmistakably Prince.

Elton John

Sir Elton John is famous not only for his tunes, but for his ability to exceed the sartorial imagination of even the most outlandish of trendsetters. Case in point – Elton’s 50^th birthday party: what better way to celebrate the milestone than in an opulent all-white Louis XIV-inspired ensemble? The cornerstone of Elton’s aesthetic is most definitely his extensive collection of eyewear. Bottle cap frames, tinted aviators, wraparounds, teashades – you name it, he’s got ‘em. Elton’s love affair with eyewear is proof that a meticulously curated selection of accessories can take your look from stylish to style icon.

Madonna

In terms of fashion, Madonna has really done it all. Cowgirl, disco, goth, military – the list of her style incarnations is virtually endless. Her fashion icon status started back in the 80s. Conceived by Maripol, the fashion genius behind the looks of Grace Jones and Debbie Harry, Madonna’s signature style consisted of lace, fishnets, skirts worn over leggings, and crucifix jewelry – all topped off with her bleach blonde locks. Her sense of fashion was wildly contagious and soon women all over the world were stocking up on hair dye and lace in an effort to emulate the original Material Girl. Decades later, women are still influenced by Madonna’s ensembles on stage, in her videos, and of course on the red carpet. Through constant reinvention, Madonna has remained one of the most influential musicians in the world of fashion.