Why PJ Harvey Is a Muse for Our Times Inline

  • pj harvey
    Expand
    Photo: Kevin Cummins/Getty Image
    1/12

    1992: A year before releasing “Man-Size” (in which she performs in underwear and a T-shirt printed with images of Marilyn Monroe), PJ Harvey, a petite musical powerhouse, was provocatively playing with her image, posing topless (back facing the camera) for NME, and choosing not to shave.

  • pj harvey
    Expand
    Photo: Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc.
    2/12

    1993: On Harvey, shimmering sequins read edgy, rather than ladylike.

  • pj harvey
    Expand
    Photo: Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc
    3/12

    1995: At the MTV Video Music Awards, Harvey went glam with Elizabeth Taylor–as–seen–by–Andy Warhol maquillage and a slip dress, naturally.

  • pj harvey
    Expand
    Photo: Patrick Ford / Redferns
    4/12

    1997: Twinning with Nick Cave. His album The Boatman’s Call is said to touch on the couple’s breakup.

  • pj harvey
    Expand
    Photo: Lex van Rossen / MAI / Redferns
    5/12

    2000: Harvey has always embraced the lingerie look.

  • pj harvey
    Expand
    Photo: Martin Philbey / Redferns
    6/12

    2003: The singer revved up her style this year, performing in this black getup with embellishments.

  • pj harvey
    Expand
    Photo: © Everynight Images / Alamy Stock Photo
    7/12

    2004: Harvey adds spice to her wardrobe with custom upcycled takes on the band T-shirt.

  • pj harvey
    Expand
    Photo: Carlos Muina / Cover / Getty Images
    8/12

    2006: Downsizing, top to bottom. “I think that sexuality is a very big part of music and of performing and making images,” Harvey has said.

  • pj harvey
    Expand
    Photo: Getty Images
    9/12

    2007: Annie Mochnacz stitched Harvey’s lyrics onto this dress. “These solo show dresses,” explains photographer Maria Mochnacz, “were fitted and intricate and armor-like.”

  • pj harvey
    Expand
    Photo: John Phillips / UK Press via Getty Images
    10/12

    2011: Harvey accepted her Mercury Prize in Ann Demeulemeester’s corseted look and feathered headdress.

  • Image may contain Human Person Fashion Premiere Red Carpet Red Carpet Premiere Crowd and Audience
    Expand
    Photo: Press Association via AP Images
    11/12

    2013: Harvey opts for a tailored look for her MBE.

  • pj harvey
    Expand
    Photo: Daniel Zuchnik / Getty Images
    12/12

    2015: Harvey rocks on.