By Paige Ferrari
Michael Jackson leaves behind more than a catalogue of insanely danceable music. The pop icon's singular fashion sense — from that sparkly white glove to his golden kneepads in the Lisa Marie era — is legendary in its own right.
Here are a few of Michael's standout looks.
Who's "Bad"?: Michael never backed down from belts, buckles, or glitz. He combined all three with his costumes from the Bad tour in 1988.
The early days: As the pint-sized lead singer of the Jackson 5, Michael was already on the cutting edge of '70s style. (He's shown here in 1972 before a concert in London.)
Growing up: In the early 1980s, Jackson dressed a lot like any other young man of the era. Of course, by this point, young MJ's fame already rivaled that of Mickey Mouse.
Victory: During the Jacksons' 1984 Victory tour, Michael suited up in what was probably the world's shiniest red jumpsuit. A love affair with shiny fabrics was born.
The Gloved One: During that same tour Michael sported the single white glove that was already becoming his trademark accessory.
In the ring: In 1984, Michael posed with Brooke Shields in a bedazzled ringmaster's jacket. Can there be any question where Britney Spears got the inspiration for her Circus tour costumes?
Dressed-down: The other side of Michael Jackson's style was the simple, white T-shirt and socks look he showed off at the 1988 Grammys.
Looking presidential: In 1990, Michael met with President George H. W. Bush in a black-and-red brocaded pantsuit. We can almost see H.W. considering an MJ-inspired uniform upgrade for the troops.
Heavy metal: By 1993, Michael was into some serious heavy metal — at least fashion-wise. His tour costumes were heavy on buckles, belts and pieces of quasi-military flair.
In 1995, the word tuned in to watch Diane Sawyer interview newlyweds Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley. However much curiosity there was over the couple's marriage (and there was plenty), Michael's gold kneepads prompted almost as much watercooler discussion.
By 1997, Michael was rarely seen out without his signature hat and dark sunglasses. (Here he inspects a wax model of himself at a museum in Paris.)