Whenever I try to recall a memory of the pop star Prince, the very first image that often springs to mind is that iconic and majestic Purple Rain costume, that he wore in the cult 80s movie, which the musician scored and also starred in.
For this post, I am going to focus on that flamboyant outfit, and hand-pick the best Purple Rain costumes for Men. The look borrows from the 1980s New Romantic scene with its frilly ruffle shirt, and will allow you to pay homage to the great musician, who we sadly lost all too soon on Apri 21 2016.
The costume is, of course, just perfect for a 1980s themed fancy dress party, and it's a popular choice on our main 80s costumes for men page.
The brilliant title song is equally as memorable and iconic as the clothing, of course - the Purple Rain album by Prince and the Revolutionwas incredibly successful, acheiving Diamond (13 x platinum) sales in the U.S., and 2 x platinum here in the UK.
Thankfully, you can buy ready-made outfits, and I've picked out the best ones below.
My top choice is the most popular online and is Smiffys 80s Musician which is supplied by the UK's leading fancy dress supplier Smiffys. It comes in three separate sizes for adults, to fit chest sizes from 38" up to 48".
Included is the purple jacket, matching trousers and a mock ruffle shirt. However, you will need to order the Prince wig and tash set seperately. A costume with the wig included is available (as shown above), but it is rather expensive when compared to buying the items seperately.
In terms of value for money, looks and customer feedback, this is my top choice. The fact that the trousers are included makes it a winner, as other options do not include them at this price level. However, I have several more options for you, so don't rush off just yet!
Best Quality Prince Costume
The best costume in terms of high quality is also the most expensive. No surprises there, but if you really want to look majestic then this option is for you!
The costume is manufactured by Undewraps and includes the purple jacket, shirt front, and black pants. However, what makes this outfit a class apart is the detailing. It includes a generous supply of silver buttons, both on the trouser legs and the jacket. The ruffled cuffs also match the shirt frills, and it just feels and looks high quality.
However, even at this price, it does not include the wig, which is disappointing, but the quality of the costume definitelyis a winner.
Best Budget Purple Rain Costume
By far, the cheapest option is made by Wicked Costumes, and it comes in a choice of sizes for men. Included is the jacket and shirt front with attached jabot. The price is substantially cheaper than any other costume on this page, but it is a pretty basic purple jacket with no shoulder detailing or frilly cuffs, and the wig and trousers are not included. For those on a tight budget, though, it's a decent option.
This Prince costume is by Karnival and I actually really like the look of this one and the price is very reasonable, too. It comes in three sizes, small, medium and large. However, as with the other options on here, the wig and moustache are not included, and neither is the electric guitar, sadly - now that would be a bargain!
This outfit by Magix Box is of a really decent quality and is definitely worth considering if you have a decent budget. The buttoned jacket has very nice detailing on the shoulders and on the arms.
Make Your Own Purple Rain Costume
If you feel confident enough to make your own costume, then you may like this article on How to Make Your Own Prince Purple Rain Jacket, which would make a fun project. Of course, finding a suitable purple trench coat and a frilly shirt will not be an easy task, but there is a wide variety of stores on the internet these days. You will also have a better quality costume given that fancy dress outfits are only designed to last for one or two wears, and usually come with a mock shirt rather than a real one.
You will definiitely need a frilly Baroque style jabot (neck tie) although frills often come attached to steampunk shirts and ruffled pirate shirts.
I hope you have found my pick of the best Prince Purple Rain costumes useful. However, the one you choose will depend on your own personal preferences regarding the overall look and also your budget.
You may also like our Michael Jackson costumes page.
There are two wig choices for you to consider above. Also consider adding these round purple sunglasses to complete your look.
