Michael Jackson,1958-2009: A style retrospective

    • Michael Jackson started singing with the Jackson 5 when he was 5, their first album came out when he was 11.
    • His offbeat sartorial taste may have been formed in the '70s.
    • With Outfits like this...
    • But it was also amazing how cool he could look.
    • In 1979, he struck out on his own with Off the Wall.
    • His career, both musically and from a fashion standpoint, peaked in 1982: Thriller sold 26 million copies.
    • A lemony-yellow vest and bow tie was the chosen getup for the single, Human Nature.
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Michael Jackson started singing with the Jackson 5 when he was 5, their first album came out when he was 11.

Michael Jackson, singer, performer, eccentric, and American icon died in his Los Angeles home on Thursday after reportedly suffering from cardiac arrest. He was just 50 years old.  In recent years, many of us had a complicated relationship with Jackson, but none could deny his massive talent or the impact he had on the entertainment community, worldwide. He was a musical visionary, creative in every aspect of his life--including his clothes. His outlandish, unique sequined style has influenced decades of  designers, including many of the retro-'80s fashions we see on runways today. Despite the scandals of recent years, we honestly can't imagine our childhoods without him. Above, a style tribute to the King of Pop.


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