“Michael” Costume Designer Painstakingly Recreated Michael Jackson’s Iconic Outfits for the Film (Exclusive)

Marci Rodgers, the costume designer behind the recent biopic “Michael,” has shared insights into her creative process for recreating the legendary wardrobe of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. The film, which details the early life of the iconic musician, features Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, in the titular role, showcasing outfits that closely resemble those worn by the original pop star.

In an interview with PEOPLE, Rodgers expressed her deep sense of honour in working on this project. She had the unique opportunity to access Jackson’s clothing archive, allowing her to study the intricate details of some of his most famous looks. Known for his flamboyant style, which included an array of sequins, metallics, and of course, his signature gloves, Jackson’s wardrobe has cemented its place in fashion history.

The biopic covers a span of 20 years, showcasing pivotal moments from Jackson’s early days with The Jackson 5 to the culmination of his Victory Tour in 1988. The costumes meticulously include iconic pieces such as the matching red vests of his brothers, the iconic red jacket from “Thriller,” and the striking attire from “Bad.” For Rodgers, this was not merely a costume assignment; it was an act of reverence and respect for an artist whose influence continues to resonate.

Rodgers shared that her commitment to authenticity resulted in an extensive research process. “I started with the music,” she recalled, noting that she created a comprehensive research book exceeding 800 pages, exploring both Michael Jackson and his family life. “My goal was to execute out of respect and honour, whether it was for adult Michael or the young Jackson 5,” she stated. This dedication to detail was crucial, as she aimed to recreate each outfit from the ground up, focusing on matching fabrics and even thread colours.

Although Rodgers did not have access to Jackson’s actual clothing for the film, she was able to study various pieces from his archive. Many items she needed were not present, prompting her to explore alternative research methods. Expanding her sources, she turned to vintage magazines such as Ebony and Jet to find details that were not easily discernible online. “The Victory Tour look, that video has been remixed so many times on YouTube that you’d never pick up on the fact that there are bugle beads on the legs,” she remarked, revealing the challenges of replicating outfits from an era before high-resolution documentation.

One notable creation was the glamorous black-and-white stage outfit worn by Michael during the Victory Tour, which involved a white shirt adorned with sparkling Swarovski crystals and black-and-white striped trousers embellished with bugle beads. “I was very particular about the weight of the fabric and its sheen,” Rodgers explained, highlighting how critical it was for the pieces to withstand the bright stage lights.

Attention to detail extended even to the socks that Jackson famously wore in a slouchy style, sometimes accented with rhinestones or Swarovski crystals. Rodgers worked diligently to capture the unique aesthetic of these accessories to align with Jackson’s personal style. “If you look closely at his socks, they often had rhinestones, which later transitioned to crystals in his later years,” she noted.

Rodgers was particularly focused on achieving the accurate shades of red that Jackson often donned, especially in his “Thriller” and “Beat It” outfits. “Each red jacket had a unique shade because they were designed at different times,” she explained. Understanding this nuance was key to ensuring the authenticity that fans would recognise. The challenge was compounded by the need to capture these colours accurately in different lighting conditions.

In her quest to authentically portray Michael Jackson, Rodgers strictly adhered to historical accuracy, avoiding creative liberties. Every piece designed for Jaafar Jackson reflected the wardrobe of the real Michael. Even more casual outfits depicted in the film were closely aligned with Jackson’s known everyday attire, consisting of his staple Levi’s jeans and casual button-down shirts. “These looks show a more intimate side of him, showcasing Michael the person rather than just the performer,” she elaborated.

Rodgers’s profound respect for the legacy of Michael Jackson permeated her work, and she regarded the entire endeavour as a momentous privilege. “This entire project was really, really an honour,” she concluded, underlining the significance of keeping Jackson’s memory alive through his celebrated fashion legacy.

Currently, “Michael” is screening in theatres, offering audiences a glimpse into the life of a musical icon whose impact continues to inspire.