Rare stage outfits, platinum awards, and personal memorabilia celebrate 40 years of Whitney’s career while supporting scholarships for arts students

Whitney Houston’s extraordinary legacy will be honored this year in a way that blends fashion, music history, and philanthropy. The Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation has announced an exclusive charity auction featuring a breathtaking collection of the star’s personal and professional treasures. From iconic stage costumes and glittering jewelry to platinum awards and memorabilia, the auction offers fans and collectors alike the chance to own a piece of music history while supporting a cause close to Houston’s heart.

The event, organized by Julien’s Auctions, is set for August 11 and promises to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Whitney’s legendary career. Among the standout items are the dazzling Marc Bouwer catsuit she wore during her 1991 I’m Your Baby Tonight tour, a custom FIFA World Cup jersey from 1994, and a black fur-trimmed Michael McCollom coat from the same era. Equally enticing are a two-piece Bouwer ensemble from The Bodyguard world tour and a pair of Dolce & Gabbana heels from her 1999 My Love Is Your Love tour.

But the collection isn’t limited to fashion. Fans will also have the chance to bid on her RIAA multi-platinum award for The Bodyguard soundtrack—still the best-selling movie soundtrack of all time—as well as jewelry pieces and even a collectible slot machine.

Pat Houston, Whitney’s sister-in-law and former manager, described the auction as deeply emotional and profoundly meaningful. “These items bring back so many memories. They remind us of Whitney’s incredible artistry and her commitment to helping young artists follow their dreams. This auction is about keeping that vision alive,” she said. The proceeds will fund scholarships for students pursuing the arts at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), aligning perfectly with Whitney’s lifelong passion for empowering others.

Ahead of the auction, the items will be displayed to the public for the first time on August 9 during the annual Legacy of Love gala at the St. Regis Hotel in Atlanta. The event coincides with what would have been Whitney’s 62nd birthday and serves as both a celebration of her life and a launch for this charitable initiative.

The Julien’s Auctions team is equally enthusiastic. Giles Moon, VP and Head of Music at Julien’s, called it “a rare opportunity for Whitney Houston fans to own pieces of her history while supporting a vital cause.” He emphasized that 100% of the proceeds will go directly to the Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation.

This auction arrives at a poignant time, marking four decades since Whitney’s debut transformed her into one of the most celebrated voices in music. Her influence remains as strong as ever, her songs still lighting up playlists and inspiring new generations of artists. From the sweeping ballads of I Will Always Love You to her dynamic stage presence, Houston’s impact extends beyond music into fashion, culture, and humanitarian work.

For many, owning one of her iconic looks or awards isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about honoring a legacy that continues to empower and uplift. As Pat Houston noted, “Whitney believed in giving people a chance to dream big. With this auction, we’re helping others do just that.”

The August 11 event will be held live in Los Angeles and online, giving fans across the globe the opportunity to participate in this historic celebration of a timeless icon.