The King of Pop is an eternal style icon for designers and fashion trends.

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As one of the most important cultural figures of the 20th century, Michael Jackson influenced not only the music industry but also the fashion industry. From his signature stage style to his unique everyday wardrobe choices, there is no doubt that Jackson had a keen eye for fashion! He worked with designers from Hedi Slimane at Dior, to Tom Ford, Riccardo Tisci (Givenchy) and John Galliano to create Michael Jackson’s signature looks around the world. Even more than a decade after his death, designers continue to look to Jackson for inspiration.

Join L’OFFICIEL as we look back at Jackson’s lasting influence on the fashion world today. 

The Letterman Jacket

Michael Jackson in a striking blue and white Letterman Jacket
Still the Letterman Jacket but with a bright red color

A classic 80s staple, the Letterman Jacket is a must-have for fall. Jackson wore a red and yellow jacket in the music video for “Thriller . ” It’s now a staple in collections from designers from Louis Vuitton to Givenchy. It’s also one of the defining streetwear items of today, thanks to its casual, cool, and practical appeal.

Military style

The white military jacket with silver sequins sparkles ton-sur-ton with the highlight of the metal armor boots.

Military style was certainly an essential part of Jackson’s wardrobe throughout his career.

Michael Jackson’s signature outfit is a military jacket paired with cropped black pants and white socks. The look was inspired by Jackson’s love of the 16th century Renaissance, where drawings reproduced all the features of the Baroque style of the aristocrats. In 2016, Beyoncé paid tribute to Jackson at the Super Bowl Halftime Show with a striking military outfit that was an exact replica of the one Michael Jackson wore during his own performance at the 1993 Super Bowl.

Fedora

The legendary Fedora hat appeared with Jackson in the "Smooth Criminal" music video and many events after that.

A signature part of Michael Jackson’s look at one point was the fedora. The most memorable moment the hat “made headlines” was in the video for “Smooth Criminal,” where Jackson paid homage to his idol Fred Astaire by wearing an outfit that closely resembled the 1953 musical “The Band Wagon.”

This little accessory has since become his signature style and has influenced many other musicians. Bruno Mars has been seen wearing a distinctive fedora while performing.

Sequins & glitter

Sparkling sequin items created the iconic image of the King of Pop.

Jackson was probably never afraid of the top, because during his performances, he only wore sequined shirts and jackets that made him attract attention even from the farthest seats of the audience! Now, 40 years after Jackson’s heyday, the attractive appearance of these sequin designs will still be the first thing that makes you stand out in the crowd! We can easily see that from the designs of Celine or Miu Miu.

Aviator Black Glasses

Image of the king in iconic black glasses

In the late 80s and early 90s, Jackson was rarely seen without sunglasses. The aviator style, in particular, was a staple for him. With reflective lenses and large frames, these sunglasses completely shielded Jackson’s eyes, giving him a mysterious air during performances. Today, aviators are still considered a top eyewear trend for celebrities and influencers.

Gloves & Mittens

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Jackson often wore a crystal-encrusted glove in his music videos and on stage. The piece became so iconic that for his Louis Vuitton Men’s Fall/Winter 2019 collection, Virgil Abloh opted to feature the design as an homage to the music legend. Virgil invited guests to join in with one of Jackson’s signature gloves. Meanwhile, the collection’s monochromatic, bejeweled jackets were nearly copies of Jackson’s wardrobe.