The news that controversial musician Sam Smith is set to headline a BBC Prom concert this summer has left classical music fans clutching their pearls.
While orchestral concerts typically bring muted elegance and demure style to mind, the singer, 31, who identifies as nonbinary, is known for their racy ensembles, sizzling performances and red hot lyrics – leading to stirs among music fans.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, BBC bosses assured furious fans the show – which is set to take place on Friday 2 August – would be entirely ‘appropriate’, yet Sam’s previous looks have called this into question.
After coming out as non-binary in 2019, they have begun to play with the rigid gender norms in clothing, opting for more androgynous looks with avant-garde styles in outlandish shapes and often scant coverage.
From flesh-flashing corsets to thongs and fishnets alongside PVC ensembles, the star has hit headlines due to their shocking fashion choices – which have already stirred shock and controversy in the classical music fans.
So what are Sam’s most controversial looks? A peek at what BBC Proms fans and attendees may have to look forward to (or possibly dread!)
GLORIA TOUR: 2023
Sam’s Gloria Tour was one of the most shocking showcases of all their looks.
A number of the ensembles left critics’ jaws on the floor, including a skimpy thong, fishnets and nipple pasties alongside thigh-high boots.
They started his performance in the look covered in a chiffon sheet which gave a peek of the flesh-flashing look underneath.
Sam also hit the stage in a waist cinching gold corset with a white shirt underneath.
They later stripped down to practically nothing while rocking out in oversized jeans and no top – making the most of their shirtless physique.
BRIT AWARDS: 2023
In the same year as their Gloria Tour, Sam set tongues wagging when they garnered over 100 Ofcom complaints over ‘devil worship’ and a passionate kiss.
They performed their hit single Unholy along with Kim Petras at London’s O2 Arena.
Sam performed the song dressed as a devil, with horns coming out of their hat, a similar look which sparked the ire of viewers at the Grammys the previous week.
The ensemble was heavily bondage inspired, with a vest adorned with buckles and chains making for one of their most racy looks to date.
A spokesperson for Ofcom told MailOnline: ‘We received 106 complaints about The Brit Awards on ITV1 on 11 February.
‘The majority of complaints related to Sam Smith’s performance, with the remainder about the use of offensive language and consumption of alcohol.’
Prior to their performance, Sam sported a voluminous latex ensemble for the red carpet.
JINGLE BELL BALL: 2022
Yet again turning up the heat, Sam was showing off his body on-stage at Capital’s Jingle Bell Ball in a plunging silver jumpsuit.
They made sure much of their physique was on full display in the number, which they sported while belting out their biggest hits.
Sam’s Instagram has previously been littered with saucy and fashionable snaps, showing off their wardrobe and edgy style.
On Wednesday, he shared the BBC post announcing the news that they would be taking the stage – however the image was much more muted than usual.
They opted for a Barbie inspired look of late, comprising a pink bomber jacket worn open with a pair of short shorts underneath.
He later deleted the post, and later shared another saucy snap showing them in a wet-look mini dress, string vest and fishnet tights.