Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, not only revolutionized the music industry but also redefined fashion in the 1980s and 90s. His wardrobe was as iconic as his music, featuring unique elements that became symbols of his individuality and artistic expression. From his signature single glove to his anti-gravity shoes, every piece of clothing had a purpose and a story behind it. Let’s dive into the 9 surprising secrets of Michael Jackson’s wardrobe that left a lasting impression on his fans and the world.

1. Why Did Michael Jackson Wear Silk?

One of the most notable aspects of Michael’s wardrobe was his love for luxurious materials, especially silk. He favored China silk, a delicate fabric known for its smooth texture and lustrous finish, which enhanced his fluid movements during performances. This lightweight fabric not only allowed him to move gracefully but also added a sophisticated touch to his stage presence. He also wore silk charmeuse, which added a subtle sheen to his outfits, accentuating his figure and elevating his overall aesthetic.

2. How Michael Jackson’s Famous Lean Shoes Worked

The anti-gravity lean that Michael performed during “Smooth Criminal” became one of his most famous dance moves. The key to this jaw-dropping trick was his specially designed shoes, which featured a V-shaped clasp at the bottom of the heels. This clasp was attached to a nail in the stage floor, allowing Michael to lean forward at a 45-degree angle without falling. However, it wasn’t just the shoes that made this trick possible – it required incredible core and leg strength, showcasing Michael’s dedication to perfecting his performances.

3. Why He Wore Only One Glove

Michael Jackson’s decision to wear a single white glove was more than just a fashion statement – it was a personal choice. Michael had vitiligo, a skin condition that causes depigmentation in patches. Initially, he wanted to hide the uneven pigmentation on his hand, but instead of wearing two gloves, which he felt would appear too ordinary, he wore a single glove. This bold move turned the glove into one of the most iconic fashion pieces in history, symbolizing his unique style and individuality.

4. Why He Loved Rhinestones

Rhinestones were another integral part of Michael Jackson’s wardrobe. These shimmering stones added sparkle and glamour to his costumes, making him shine on stage. Michael’s love for rhinestones went beyond their aesthetic appeal – he would personally select the stones, imagining himself as a pirate discovering a treasure chest filled with glittering jewels. The dazzling effect of rhinestones became synonymous with his larger-than-life presence and timeless fashion legacy.

5. Why Almost Every Jacket Had an Armband

One distinctive feature of Michael’s jackets was the armband he wore on the right sleeve. The armband was not just a fashion accessory – it had a deeper meaning. Michael used the armband to draw attention to the suffering of children around the world. By incorporating this piece into his wardrobe, he aimed to raise awareness for their struggles and inspire positive change. His unique fashion choices became a platform for promoting social causes and creating lasting impact through his music and style.

6. Why He Wore Smaller Costumes

Michael’s intense performances often led him to lose up to five pounds by the end of a show. As a result, he made sure his costumes were tailored to fit him perfectly, even as his body changed due to the physical demands of dancing. He paid great attention to detail, ensuring that his outfits fit flawlessly and reflected his commitment to excellence. By adjusting his costumes to his dynamic performance style, he created an unforgettable visual experience for his fans.

7. Why There Were Three N7 Sewn onto His Jackets

Another unique feature of Michael’s jackets was the “N7” stitched onto them. This wasn’t just a random design choice; it held significant meaning. Michael was the seventh child in his family, and he was born in 1958. When you add 19 and 58 together, you get 77, creating an interesting connection between numbers and his life story. The “N7” symbolized his extraordinary journey and served as a reminder of the unique path he took to become the King of Pop.

8. Why He Taped His Fingers

Michael often taped his fingers during performances, and this had both practical and artistic reasons. The tape helped focus attention on his hands, highlighting the intricate movements that were an essential part of his dance routines. The tape also created an additional visual effect, catching the light and adding a shimmer to his fingers as he moved. This small but striking detail enhanced the overall performance, adding an element of mystery and intrigue to his shows.

9. Why He Wore White Socks

One of Michael Jackson’s most daring fashion choices was his decision to wear white socks with a black suit. This was unconventional, as no one would typically pair white socks with dark formal wear. But for Michael, it was a deliberate choice designed to draw attention to his feet and enhance his dance routines. The white socks caught the light, emphasizing the precision and skill of his footwork during performances. It was yet another example of how his fashion choices had a purpose and helped make his performances even more captivating.

Conclusion

Michael Jackson’s wardrobe was a reflection of his creativity, attention to detail, and commitment to making his performances unforgettable. From his iconic glove to his anti-gravity shoes and his unique fashion statements, each element of his wardrobe was carefully chosen to complement his artistic vision. His fashion choices not only influenced the music industry but also left a lasting impact on pop culture. Today, Michael Jackson’s style remains as iconic as his music, reminding us of his legacy as the King of Pop.