Prince “Purple Rain” (November 23, 1983) – Local Costuming for the Cast & Extras

“‘Purple Rain’ cast outfitted locally” — The film, currently being shot in the Twin Cities, outfitted around 100 extras at local Minneapolis stores including J.J. Flash, Pants Plus, and The Arcade. The hottest item: colorful nylon peg-legged pants.

Publication: Minneapolis Star and TribuneDate: Wednesday, November 23, 1983

Country: United States

Section: Off the cuff / Bonnie Miller Rubin (Page 2C)

THE STORY

The article highlights how the Purple Rain production sourced costumes locally. J.J. Flash employee Anna Busterud is pictured modeling the popular multi-colored peg-legged pants ($50 at J.J. Flash) worn in the movie. Co-owner Allan Share notes they are “the hottest pants in the country” — modern but not strictly punk or new wave. Additional military surplus items (camouflage, flight jackets, etc.) were also popular for the film’s look.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

This piece captures the on-the-ground reality of filming in Minneapolis just days after production ramped up. It shows how the movie injected energy into the local fashion and retail scene. The peg-legged pants became one of the signature looks associated with the Purple Rain aesthetic.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Event: Local outfitting of Purple Rain cast and extras

Era: Mid-production (November 1983) Tone: Light, upbeat local-interest story Photography: Large staff photo by Bruce Bisping showing Anna Busterud modeling the pants (full-body shot with a fun, energetic pose)

Visual Motifs: Black & white newsprint photo with 1980s fashion flair

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

• Confirmation that Purple Rain was actively filming in Minneapolis the week of November 23, 1983

• Strong local economic and cultural tie-in (stores, fashion trends)

• Early glimpse of the film’s distinctive wardrobe style

RELATED MATERIAL

This follows the November 21 Barbara Flanagan column announcing filming that week and the earlier November 13 report of shooting on Hennepin Ave.

For other relevant posts, see the tags at the foot of the page.

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