Celebrate the 35th anniversary of ‘Off the Wall’ in a Michael Jackson-approved 70s tuxedo look.
Michael Jackson in ‘Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough’
This Friday would have been Michael Jackson’s 56th birthday. But earlier in the month, there was another landmark moment in the King of Pop’s musical legacy: the 35th anniversary of the release of Off the Wall. Often regarded as MJ’s most critically acclaimed work, Off the Wall is arguably one of the greatest dance albums ever produced. A disco record at its core, the Quincy Jones-produced booty bumping sound was also tinged with jazz, funk and R&B, making it much more timeless than its mirror balled peers. And while Michael had recorded a couple solo albums during his Jackson 5 days, Wall truly launched his solo career, as he desperately tried to break away from his brothers and father. ‘Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough’ was the album’s lead single, dropped a month earlier and reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in October of ’79.
About the Look
Symbolically, the tuxedo worn by Michael in the video for ‘Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough’ (and on the album cover for Off the Wall) represents celebration, as he graduates from a member of the Jackson family act to enter the more adult music industry as a solo artist. The suit he wore was one of Yves Saint Laurent’s Le Smoking numbers, picked up at a Beverly Hills boutique. (He was so slim that he only fit into a women’s size.) At the suggestion of Off the Wall photographer Mike Salisbury, Michael also wore black penny loafers inspired by Gene Kelly, shoes that would go on to become the only footwear he ever performed in. The white socks, however, were all Michael’s idea. Having once been mesmerized by a pair of Cher’s beaded Bob Mackie socks, he had the designer make him some glittering hosiery of his own. The entire look is so classic, it’s fairly simple to recreate. Just be aware of cuts and fit, keep the tuxedo’s silhouette slim and modern, and built with impeccable construction. Also, don’t be afraid to ditch the heels for some sleek menswear-style loafers or oxfords. Not only will they look undeniably cool, but they’ll make riding the boogie so much easier.
jacket: Saint Laurent ~ shirt: Karl Lagerfeld ~ trousers: Saint Laurent ~ loafers: 3.1 Phillip Lim ~ bow tie: River Island ~ socks: Stance Bglam