A Look Inside Michael Jackson’s IMPRESSIVE Closet

In the world of music and dance, few names resonate as profoundly as Michael Jackson. Known as the King of Pop, his influence extended far beyond the realm of sound; it permeated the very fabric of fashion. Michael Jackson was not just a performer; he was a visionary who understood the power of style as a form of self-expression. His closet, a treasure trove of creativity and innovation, tells a story of a man who dared to defy conventions and redefine what it meant to be a star.

From the very beginning of his career, Michael Jackson was determined to carve out a unique identity. He famously stated, “If fashion says it’s forbidden, I’m going to do it.” This rebellious spirit was evident in his choice to work closely with personal costume designers rather than simply donning the latest runway fashions. Michael Bush and Dennis Tomkins, his long-time collaborators, were instrumental in crafting the iconic looks that would become synonymous with Jackson’s persona. In Bush’s book, *The King of Style: Dressing Michael Jackson*, he recounts how Michael wanted to be a trendsetter, not a trend follower. “I want the fashion designers in the world, the big conglomerates, to copy me,” he declared, emphasizing his desire to push the boundaries of individuality.

One of the most striking aspects of Michael’s wardrobe was his fascination with military aesthetics. His military jackets, adorned with intricate embroideries, buckles, and rhinestones, became a signature element of his style. These garments were not merely clothing; they were statements of power and artistry. Michael’s love for Disney fairy tales inspired the fantasy of a knight in shining armor, and he often remarked, “A uniform commands attention.” This attention to detail was not lost on his fans, particularly the women who adored the way the military style accentuated his broad shoulders and narrow waist. Bush noted, “Who doesn’t love a man in a uniform?” Michael’s ability to blend strength with whimsy was a hallmark of his fashion sense.

One of the most memorable pieces in Michael’s collection was the military jacket he wore during his visit to the White House in 1990. This striking black jacket, complete with a red armband and heavy braiding, was a testament to his status as an entertainer. After receiving the Entertainer of the Decade honor from President George H.W. Bush, Michael sought to treat himself. He showed his dressmakers a picture of the Queen’s Imperial State Crown, and they embarked on a journey to the Tower of London to study the real thing. This attention to historical detail was a reflection of Michael’s deep appreciation for artistry and craftsmanship.

Bush and Tomkins drew inspiration from European monarchs and military history, particularly from the notorious King Henry VIII of England. Tomkins even taught himself how to solder and sandblast metal, creating a sterling silver crown encrusted with costume stones and pearls. Instead of the second star of Africa, which sits at the center of the Imperial State Crown, Tomkins sandblasted an imitation diamond featuring the iconic image of Michael’s dancing feet. Although Michael never wore the crown publicly, it became a cherished symbol of his legacy. Years later, his children asked Bush and Tomkins to create a regal robe for their father to wear on Father’s Day, completing the ceremonial dress that would forever be associated with the King of Pop.

In the early days of designing for Michael, Bush established what he called the “four Fs”: fit, function, fun, and first. While the first three were self-explanatory, the last one referred to the desire for constant innovation. Michael was never one to repeat designs; he sought to improve and evolve with each performance. On stage, the most crucial aspect was function. Bush described Michael’s outfits as “wearable art,” designed to move with him as he danced to the beat of the music. The floor-length loafers he wore held a special significance, as they were the very shoes in which he first learned to dance.

Bush recounted a time when he attempted to polish a pair of Michael’s shoes, only to be met with a fierce reprimand. “The leather is warm the way I like it,” Michael explained, emphasizing that any alteration could jeopardize his performance. “If I fall and twist an ankle, we are all out of a job.” This practical approach to footwear was indicative of Michael’s commitment to his craft.

During the filming of *Captain EO* in 1985, Michael faced a dilemma when the shoes provided as part of his sci-fi costume hindered his ability to dance. His beloved loafers were not suitable for the futuristic theme, so a creative solution was devised. The soles were cut out of the high-top Reebok shoes he was originally meant to wear, allowing him to don his floor-length loafers without compromising the aesthetic. This adaptability was a hallmark of Michael’s approach to fashion, as he often made alterations to his attire to ensure it complemented his dynamic performances.

The video for “Dirty Diana” presented another challenge. Initially, Michael wore a jacket that proved too heavy and restrictive in the wind machine. In a moment of inspiration, he spotted the white shirt Bush was wearing, which had been crafted from a lightweight fabric that billowed effortlessly. This led to the creation of the iconic “Dirty Diana” white shirt, a testament to the collaborative spirit between Michael and his design team.

Michael’s philosophy of “look but can’t touch” guided his approach to stage outfits. He believed that if a fan in the front row was wearing something similar to him, he would cease to be the entertainer. This mindset extended to his custom-made shin guards, adorned with 18-karat gold, which he wore during his 1996 History tour. Inspired by baseball, Michael questioned why only baseball players were allowed to wear shin guards. These pieces not only served as protection during his athletic dance routines but also became a symbol of his innovative spirit.

While Bush and Tomkins aimed to create the next iconic accessory, such as Michael’s famous sequined glove or the red leather jacket from *Thriller*, they understood that not every piece would achieve the same level of recognition. The jackets created for the *Bad Tour* in 1988, for instance, were equipped with 11,000 light bulbs that lit up remotely, pulsating to the beat of the music. It took three engineers to wire the electrical components, ensuring that Michael could dazzle his audience without having to touch a switch.

Over the years, various versions of Michael’s iconic jackets emerged, including an eel skin version and one made of plastic that proved too hot for him to wear during performances. Bush described the state of the jackets after a show, noting that they would often be “really beat.” Michael’s energetic performances took a toll on his costumes, and he would frequently request repairs for the zippers that endured the rigors of the stage. Bush would spend countless late nights restoring the jackets, ensuring that each performance maintained the same high quality that Michael demanded.

Among the many garments in Michael’s closet, one stood out as his favorite: the white pearl jacket he wore when his sister Janet presented him with the Grammy Legend Award in 1993. This jacket was a redesigned version of the one he wore to the Oscars with Madonna in 1991. Bush shared the emotional experience of dressing Michael for the last time, preparing him for his burial. “Who else could do it? I did it for my friend,” he reflected. However, the original pearl jacket could not be found, leading Bush to speculate that Michael may have given it away to a fan.

In a touching tribute, Bush and Tomkins set to work crafting a new pearl jacket for Michael. They incorporated a special element that held deep significance for the King of Pop: Tinkerbell, his favorite Disney character. Michael believed that Tinkerbell’s magic dust was the source of his creativity. He would often enter designer rooms and request, “Bush, dust me.” In a heartfelt gesture, they sewed a beautiful crystal rhinestone Tinkerbell inside the left side of the jacket, ensuring that her magic would forever be close to his heart.

As Bush dressed Michael for that final moment, he carefully closed the jacket over Michael’s chest, where Tinkerbell and her magic dust would rest for eternity. This poignant act symbolized the enduring legacy of a man who transcended the boundaries of music and fashion. Michael Jackson’s closet was not merely a collection of clothing; it was a testament to his artistry, creativity, and the indelible mark he left on the world.

In the years since his passing, Michael Jackson’s influence continues to be felt in the realms of music, dance, and fashion. His iconic looks have inspired countless artists and designers, and his commitment to individuality and self-expression remains a guiding principle for many. The story of Michael Jackson’s closet is a celebration of a life lived boldly, a reminder that true artistry knows no bounds, and that the magic of creativity can endure long after the final curtain falls.

As we reflect on the legacy of the King of Pop, we are reminded that fashion is not just about clothing; it is a powerful form of expression that can inspire, uplift, and transform. Michael Jackson’s closet serves as a testament to the idea that style is an extension of the self, a canvas upon which one can paint their dreams and aspirations. In the end, it is not just the clothes that define a legend, but the spirit and creativity that breathe life into them. Michael Jackson’s journey through fashion is a story of innovation, rebellion, and the enduring magic of artistry.