Created in partnership with Graceland, this exclusive exhibition explores the extraordinary life and style of Elvis Presley.
One of the most iconic public figures of the 20th century, Elvis’s influence on music, design, art, and pop culture was profound. He is arguably the single greatest influence on the history of modern men’s fashion, constantly referenced and re-mixed by designers and celebrities today.
From his humble childhood on the poverty line in small-town Mississippi, Elvis grew up immersed in the rich and diverse music cultures of the deep South. Only two years after cutting his first single at the legendary Sun Studios in Memphis, Elvis had signed a major record deal and virtually overnight shot to super-stardom, the likes of which had never been seen before. In those early heady years, he purchased Graceland and created the private haven he would never sell, despite his ever-increasing fame over the following two decades.
In a time before celebrities had teams of personal stylists, Elvis carefully crafted his own look, borrowing from eclectic sources to perfect a ground-breaking new style. Decked out in threads from the ultra-hip Lansky Brothers store on Beale Street in Downtown Memphis, with slick coiffed hair and black mascara, Elvis’ appearance was as sensational as his music.
His audacious style evolved over the decades: from the soft trousers and argyle socks of his youth, to the leather rocker of 1968, to the flamboyant bling of the 1970s. Elvis maintained long-term partnerships with not only the Lanskys, but designers such as Bill Belew – creator of the karate-inspired stage suits that rapidly evolved into the bejewelled jumpsuits of Las Vegas.
Direct from the Graceland archive, the exhibition features a wide range of costumes and ultra-cool outfits, vintage memorabilia, and treasured items from his beloved Graceland home. Fashion highlights include Elvis and Priscilla’s wedding outfits, the repurposed ’68 Special costume he wore to meet President Nixon, the diamond-encrusted Maltese cross necklace designed by Linda Thompson, and a dazzling array of Vegas jumpsuits. Personal treasures include his gold telephone, karate gi, his childhood crayon box from Tupelo, and the bongos Priscilla gifted him on their first Christmas together in 1959.
Bendigo – A Must See Destination
Visit Bendigo and experience a vibrant regional city jam-packed with creativity, great food and wine, happening festivals and friendly locals, all thriving among a heritage setting that stacks up to the grand European cities that inspired it.
Bendigo has long been a must-see destination. When gold was first discovered here in the mid-1800s the world soon cottoned on and the box-ironbark forests and creek flats were overcome by people from around the globe hell bent on striking riches. Many did, and much of the wealth exhumed from the earth was invested back into building the city. That’s why Bendigo boasts some of the country’s most impressive architecture, public sculptures, fountains and gardens. And while Bendigo’s built heritage is certainly historic, it’s far from old hat. Today this place has inspired creativity and innovation on show for all to enjoy.
Don’t miss this rare event!
Melbourne Elite Tours’s director is so excited about this event. A mad Elvis fan all his life, creating a luxurious private day tour to experience this event was a no brainer. Just under two hours from Melbourne, Bendigo is a town packed with things to see and do. Spend the morning discovering the town, have a lovely lunch and then spend the rest of the afternoon soaking up your Elvis experience. Keep the vibe going on the drive back to Melbourne with Elvis playing in the background.
This event ends on the 17th of July so get in quickly for this great day out. Tickets are selling fast so don’t delay! Please call on 0403 450 790 to book this unforgettable day. Tour includes transport in a brand new V Class Mercedes up to 7 guests, 2 course lunch with drink, entry into the Bendigo Gallery for the Elvis Exhibition and just an unforgettable day out.
