Cyndi Lauper, the iconic singer known for her vibrant personality and distinct fashion sense, is set to part with cherished pieces from her illustrious career in a remarkable auction event hosted by Bonhams. The auction, titled “Cyndi Lauper: Suitcase of Memories,” offers fans and collectors a unique opportunity to acquire an array of fashion items, accessories, and memorabilia that reflect Lauper’s groundbreaking contributions to music and culture.
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At 73 years of age, Lauper is taking a nostalgic step as she prepares for the two-part auction, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of her acclaimed album, *True Colors*, and its titular single. In a recent interview with PEOPLE, the singer share her emotions regarding the discovery of her iconic newspaper skirt, which was first worn in the music video for “True Colors.” “When I found the paper skirt, I cried,” Lauper recalled, highlighting the sentimental journey of revisiting her past through these items.
Working alongside Laura Wills, the owner of the renowned vintage shop Screaming Mimi’s in New York City, Lauper helped curate this poignant collection. Together, they transformed what was originally a dress form into one of Lauper’s most iconic looks. This particular piece was crafted using vintage materials, including newspapers and pages from *Paper Magazine*, solidifying the skirt’s role in the fashion tapestry of the 80s.
The emotional weight of the auction is underscored for Lauper by the loss of many personal items over the years due to unfortunate circumstances, including floods and fires. “A lot of stuff was lost,” she expressed, adding that the newspaper skirt holds significant sentimental value as a remnant of her inventive spirit and creative journey. The skirt is estimated to fetch between $1,000 to $2,000 at the auction, further solidifying its status as a coveted collector’s item.
In continuing with the legacy of this piece, the skirt also received renewed attention in 2025 when artist Chappell Roan donned a replica while inducting Lauper into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The revival of interest in Lauper’s fashion emphasizes not just nostalgia but the enduring influence of her style, which continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike.
Reflecting on the impending auction, Lauper shared her hopes that the items will resonate with people of all ages. “I just thought it would be a great time to remind older people about a time in the past, and show younger people and inspire them to be creative,” she said. The collection serves not only as a trip down memory lane but also as an invitation for younger audiences to explore the connections between music and fashion.
Lauper retains a keen awareness of the fluid interplay between the two realms. “I think music always leads fashion a little bit,” she explained, reminiscing about the vibrant London scene of the 1980s, which birthed seminal collaborations between designers like Vivienne Westwood and music icons including Adam Ant and the Sex Pistols. “It was like when I first saw them, it was just ‘Wow,’” she remarked, highlighting how such partnerships left an indelible mark on her artistic vision.
The first part of the auction, “Cyndi Lauper: Suitcase of Memories Part I,” will take place in person on Thursday, 22nd October, at Bonhams in New York City. Meanwhile, “Cyndi Lauper: Suitcase of Memories Part II” will be accessible online, running from 17th September through 23rd October. Collectively, these offerings will showcase over 200 unique lots, each imbued with Lauper’s colourful legacy.
As the auction date approaches, excitement is palpable among fans and collectors who seek to connect with Lauper’s rich history and distinctive style. In a landscape where fashion and music intertwine, Lauper continues to be a beacon of creativity and originality, proving that her influence extends far beyond her musical achievements.