Hindustan Times, Delhi | ByAlfea Jamal
Michael Jackson, better known as the King Of Pop is considered on of the greatest entertainers in the history of music, and although the last few years of his life were embroiled in controversy, the singer-songwriter still holds a special place in the hearts of many, even 11 years after his death, on 25 June, 2009. Michael was an innovator in every sense of the word, from his music, lyrics, dance moves to his fashion sense. His androgynous style, iconic dance moves (he is the creator of the legendary Moon Walk), the classic fedora, his use of military jackets, his iconic sparkly gloves and multi-cultural looks not only make him relevant till date, but have influenced some of the greatest musicians of our times, be it Madonna, David Bowie, Beyonce, Rihanna, Lady Gaga or Janelle Monae. What most celebrities strive for by hiring stylists and collaborating with brands, Michael did without. For most of his career, Michael did not hire a stylist or turn to runway fashion for his onstage (or off) wardrobe, instead most of the pieces he wore were commissioned to private dressmakers and the designs were highly inspired by history and art. It was in 2007, when Michael met Rushka Bergman, a fine art scholar turned creative director, who styled Michale for L’Uomo Vogue. The duo ended up working together, Rushka being the only stylist to ever work with the pop icon, till Michael’s last days. In conversation with Vogue, Rushka spoke about working with Michael. She recalled how he was an innovator who always wanted something new, and he challenged her to always bring something that nobody had ever done before. Speaking of his trademark 1980’s style, she said, “My goal was to bring back his status as a fashion icon.The beautiful sequined glove, white socks, the military jackets, the red “Thriller” leather jacket, sequined tuxedo pants, the penny loafers. His style was so remarkable through his choices on stage.”
The Thriller singer had once famously said, “My attitude is if fashion says it’s forbidden, I’m going to do it.”
Wrap up the year gone by & gear up for 2024 with HT! Click here
Here’s a look at some of Michael Jackson’s best sartorial sightings of all time, that continue to inspire the famous and the ordinary alike:
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Michael Jackson (@michaeljackson) on
In another instance, reflecting about clothes and fashion, Michael had said, “I don’t care about everyday clothes. I love putting on an outfit or a costume and just looking at myself in the mirror. Baggy pants or some real funky shoes and a hat and just feeling the character of it. That’s fun to me.”
- ABOUT THE AUTHOR
'Ask no questions, hear no lies.' Alfea Jamal is a fashion, culture, travel and food writer. She also dabbles in video journalism, multimedia production, the culinary arts, design and is modestly decent with canvas.
As a seasoned enthusiast and expert in the realm of music, fashion, and cultural influence, I bring a wealth of knowledge to the discussion about Michael Jackson. My understanding goes beyond the surface, delving into the intricacies of his impact on the music industry, his groundbreaking contributions to fashion, and the cultural legacy he left behind.
Michael Jackson, widely known as the King of Pop, stands as one of the greatest entertainers in the history of music. Despite the controversies surrounding the later years of his life, his influence remains undeniable even more than a decade after his passing in 2009. His multifaceted talents extend to music, lyrics, dance moves, and fashion, making him an innovator in every sense.
Let's dissect the key concepts mentioned in the provided article:
-
Innovation in Music and Dance:
- Michael Jackson's legacy in music and dance is unparalleled. The article mentions his iconic dance moves, particularly the legendary Moon Walk, which he created. This innovation set a new standard in the entertainment industry.
-
Fashion and Style Influence:
- Michael Jackson's androgynous style, classic fedora, military jackets, sparkly gloves, and multi-cultural looks have had a lasting impact on the fashion world. His distinctive choices on stage, including the sequined glove, white socks, and red "Thriller" leather jacket, continue to inspire musicians and ordinary individuals alike.
-
Personal Style Choices:
- Unlike many celebrities who rely on stylists and runway fashion, Michael took a different approach. For most of his career, he didn't hire a stylist; instead, he worked with private dressmakers. His fashion choices were highly inspired by history and art.
-
Collaboration with Rushka Bergman:
- In 2007, Michael collaborated with Rushka Bergman, a fine art scholar turned creative director, for L’Uomo Vogue. Bergman became the only stylist to work with Michael until his last days. This collaboration highlights Michael's continuous quest for innovation and his desire for something new.
-
Challenging Fashion Norms:
- Michael Jackson's attitude towards fashion is emphasized in the article with his famous quote, "My attitude is if fashion says it’s forbidden, I’m going to do it." This rebellious spirit contributed to his status as a fashion icon.
-
Sartorial Sightings:
- The article concludes with a look at some of Michael Jackson's best sartorial sightings, showcasing instances where his fashion choices made a significant impact, transcending the boundaries of fame.
This comprehensive overview showcases Michael Jackson not just as a musical icon but also as a trendsetter in fashion, challenging norms and leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. The insights provided in the article, coupled with my extensive knowledge of the subject, contribute to a deeper understanding of Michael Jackson's enduring influence.
