Before Cyndi Lauper became a pop icon of the 1980s, she was the queen of the cash register at Screaming Mimi's, a boutique that defined edgy fashion in Manhattan. This month, a piece of that spirit returns to the spotlight with "Cyndi Lauper: A Suitcase of Memories," a two-part auction featuring her eclectic fashion and personal items at Bonhams in New York City.
On a recent Thursday morning, Lauper, sporting seafoam green hair, led a private tour of the auction collection. It is a vibrant display of outfits spanning her five-decade career, filled with clashing prints, jutting tutus, and bold headwear in every conceivable color. Each piece tells a story, a moment captured in fabric and design that reflects her unique style.
As she walked through the collection, Lauper noted the details that matter to her, ensuring that everything was in place for the auction. “Is that rainbow fan at the right angle?” she asked the Bonhams team, her enthusiasm infectious. The auction, taking place in late October 2026, promises to be more than just a sale of clothing; it’s a celebration of a career that has influenced music and fashion alike.
The auction includes items that span Lauper's career, from her breakout hits in the early 1980s to her continued presence in today’s music scene. Each outfit is a chapter in her life, from the iconic looks that defined her early days to the more recent pieces that reflect her artistic evolution. The two-part auction is expected to draw significant attention, both from collectors and fans eager to own a piece of Lauper's storied journey.
Lauper's fashion choices have often mirrored her music: bold, unapologetic, and deeply personal. “I don’t believe in cancel culture,” she said, reflecting on the current climate surrounding artistic expression. “Fashion and music should come from a place of freedom.” Her stance resonates as she prepares to part with items that have been integral to both her personal and professional identity.
The auction catalog features over 100 pieces, including stage outfits, personal garments, and accessories. Among the highlights are her colorful stage costumes from the "She's So Unusual" tour in 1984, which helped establish her as a fashion force as much as a musical one. Pieces like the flamboyant tutu and oversized accessories underscore her ability to challenge norms and embrace individuality.
Lauper's influence extends beyond her music. She has become a symbol of empowerment, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality through her work. Her activism is woven into the fabric of her career, much like the outfits she is now putting up for auction.
The auction creates a rare opportunity for fans to connect with Lauper's legacy in a tangible way. Bonhams has reported strong interest, with collectors and fans alike eager to bid on items that represent a significant cultural moment. The auction is set for October 29 and 30, 2026, and bids are expected to start in the low hundreds, with some items anticipated to fetch thousands.
As the auction approaches, Lauper’s excitement is palpable. She remains grounded, aware of the impact her career has had on others. “I just want people to feel free to express themselves,” she said. “Fashion should be fun. It should make you feel something.”
In a world where trends come and go, Lauper’s ability to remain relevant is a testament to her creativity and resilience. The auction at Bonhams is more than a sale; it is a moment to reflect on a career that has continually broken barriers and inspired generations. With each item up for bid, Lauper invites fans to join her on a nostalgic journey through the colorful, chaotic world of her fashion history.
According to The Guardian.
