The King of Pop’s Style: Michael Jackson’s Iconic Outfits

Jenney Hilfiger
3 min readMar 1, 2023

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Introduction to Michael Jackson’s Fashion

Michael Jackson was not only a legendary musician but also a fashion icon. His unique style and memorable outfits helped to define pop culture during the 1980s and 1990s. From his military jackets to his sequined gloves, Michael Jackson’s fashion choices continue to inspire and influence designers and fans alike. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of Michael Jackson outfit and explore the impact of his fashion on pop culture.

The Military Jacket

One of Michael Jackson’s most recognizable fashion statements was the military jacket. He wore a variety of military-inspired jackets throughout his career, but perhaps the most famous was the one he donned in the music video for “Thriller.” The jacket was adorned with gold buttons and a red band on the arm, and paired with black pants and a white shirt. The jacket was so iconic that it sold for $1.8 million at auction in 2011.

Michael Jackson’s military jackets were inspired by the uniforms of various military branches, including the French Army and the Hussars. He often added his own unique touches, such as embroidery and sequins, to create a one-of-a-kind look.

The White Glove

Another iconic piece of Michael Jackson’s wardrobe was his white glove. He first wore a single white glove during a performance of “Billie Jean” in 1983, and it quickly became a signature part of his look. The glove was covered in rhinestones and sequins and was often paired with other sparkly accessories, such as his socks and shoes.

The white glove was a symbol of Michael Jackson’s showmanship and attention to detail. He once said that he wore the glove to draw attention to his hand movements and make them more dramatic on stage. The glove has since become synonymous with Michael Jackson’s music and style.

The Red Leather Jacket

In addition to his military jackets and white glove, Michael Jackson also had a number of other iconic outfits. Perhaps one of the most famous was the red leather jacket he wore in the music video for “Beat It.” The jacket had silver zippers and was paired with black pants and a white shirt. The jacket became so popular that it was eventually sold at auction for $2.4 million.

The red leather jacket was an example of Michael Jackson’s ability to take a simple item of clothing and turn it into a statement piece. The jacket was inspired by the punk rock movement of the late 1970s and early 1980s and helped to bridge the gap between punk and pop culture.

The Thriller Costume

Of course, no discussion of Michael Jackson’s fashion would be complete without mentioning the iconic red jacket he wore in the “Thriller” music video. The jacket was covered in black leather patches and had a unique design that made it instantly recognizable. The jacket was paired with black pants, a white shirt, and a red tie.

The “Thriller” costume has become one of the most iconic outfits in pop culture history. It has been imitated and recreated countless times, and continues to inspire new generations of music and fashion lovers.

Michael Jackson’s Legacy

Michael Jackson’s fashion choices were more than just a way to look good on stage. They were a reflection of his creativity, artistry, and individuality. His influence on fashion and pop culture can still be seen today, nearly a decade after his death.

Many designers have cited Michael Jackson as an inspiration for their own work, and his impact can be seen in everything from high fashion to streetwear.

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