Olivia Rodrigo’s iconic White Stripes clothing splurge
Sometimes, the most memorable musical connections aren’t found in chart-topping hits, but in the history and artifacts of the artists themselves. For singer-songwriter Olivia Rodrigo, that connection to rock history has recently taken a wonderfully expensive turn, as she secured a piece of iconic memorabilia from one of the legends of alternative music.
Rodrigo has revealed that she spent an exorbitant amount of money to acquire a vintage piece of clothing—specifically, the iconic white Gunne Sax dress that drummer Meg White wore for the artwork of The White Stripes classic album, Elephant.
This particular garment is more than just a piece of vintage fashion; it is woven into the fabric of rock history. The dress was central to the visual identity of the album, which features the duo against their trademark red backdrop, celebrating their powerful sound.
The hunt for this piece led to a high-stakes auction. It was put up for sale by Julien’s Auctions in May, with an estimated value ranging between $4,000 and $6,000. However, the dress proved to be far more precious than its initial estimate, ultimately selling for $25,600.
Rodrigo was the successful bidder, describing the purchase as an “exorbitant amount of money,” cementing her place in the annals of those who appreciate rock legacy. While she had initially hoped to wear the dress during her inaugural Daisy Chain Fields festival, the cost led her to reconsider, pondering whether she could embrace the vintage style in the winter months instead.
This acquisition reflects a deeper, long-standing admiration Rodrigo holds for the genre. Her passion for rock is deep-rooted, extending far beyond The White Stripes. Her musical tastes span influential groups like The Cure, New Order, and Joy Division, alongside bands like Bikini Kill.
Her connection with the band’s members, particularly Jack White, is equally profound. When she first met White in 2022, she hailed him as her “hero of all heroes.” Their bond deepened as White served as a mentor, offering advice that shaped her musical journey, telling her that her only job was to write music that she would want to hear on the radio.
That shared cultural reverence continued throughout the music world, evidenced by their shared appearances at major rock milestones, such as The White Stripes’ Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction. This shared history underscores how music, and the stories behind it, continue to inspire and connect generations.
Buy on Amazon
Credit
