Michael Jackson's Tour Wardrobe Revealed

As Michael Jackson prepared for his final This Is It tour, friends on set say the pop star was never better. “He’s still a terrific dancer,” says costume designer Dennis Tompkins, who worked with Michael Bush to create an “over the top” wardrobe for the tour. On his final night of rehearsal, Jackson “was doing the moonwalk. Everything!” says Bush. “He did the whole show full out at performance level. He was like, ‘When are we going to London? Let’s go. I’m ready.’” He was also on a creative high. “Working with Michael for 25 years we had never seen his creativity at this level,” says Bush. “It was like where is this coming from? I get goose bumps thinking about what this visual was going to look like.” Though the show won’t go on, Bush and Tompkins gave PEOPLE an exclusive look at just that. Here’s an inside look at what you might have seen.

1. A THRILLING JACKET: Costumers Michael Bush and Dennis Tompkins re-created Jackson’s iconic looks for each of the 26 songs he was to perform, but the singer asked, “How can we take it to the next level?” Bush recalls. The solution? Fiber-optic lights sewn onto his red leather “Thriller” jacket, for a surprise light show timed to the music.

2. OLD FAVES: Jackson was going to back his signature crystal glove and socks, which caught the light — and assured that even fans in the back could see him dance. “He was so excited to perform,”says Bush.

3. A MILITARY SALUTE: For the star’s rendition of “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You,” Bush and Tompkins created a “regimented, military” look.

4. BELTS AND WHISTLES: Tompkins had to make sure items like this jeweled belt would fit Jackson’s slight 27 3/4 inch waist, but says his weight was not an issue: “He was a bit smaller, but he was always thin.”

5. MAJOR DANCE MOVES: Jackson’s new Billie Jean suit held 7.5 lbs. of Swarovski crystals and 60 lights, so the star made sure he could do a spin before signing off. “The dance came first; costumes were secondary,” says Bush. “And his moves were sharper than ever.”

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Aren't the pieces amazing!?!? Most likely they'll be on display at a gala. Looking at this image reinforces just how much "Fashion Is Foremost Inspiration."

Suzanna

Tribute to Michael Jackson: Fashion & Music

Some of my doting childhood memories were of me singing alongside my mother to Michael Jackson's tunes. She was a huge fan of the “King of Pop”! When she brought the family’s first VCR player – it was only natural that we stay up and record all of Michael’s music videos so that we’d have it for our personal collection. Or when my fourth grade teacher, Ms. Sullivan, would play songs from Michael’s Bad album in class. I’ll forever cherish these memories. It’s clear that we weren’t the only admirers of Michael Jackson. He impacted the lives of countless individuals worldwide - from various religion, race, and economic status. Not only was Michael a musical icon –he was a trendsetter as well. I would like to dedicate this fashion post to the “King of Popular Culture” …….. you will be missed but never forgotten.

Pay hommage to the "King of Pop" with this military-inspired Chris Benz Sergeant Jacket in lightweight woven cotton. It has 8-button closures, 16-button details, and an appliqué detail at the front. The Chris Benz Sergeant Jacket features a stand-up collar and cuffs, long sleeves, and a shorten front to emphasize the waist. Other features include a vent, buttons, and appliqué at tails. Musical artists such as Beyonce, Kanye West, and Rihanna were recently seen wearing military-inspired jackets but let's not forget who started the trend back in the 90s --- Michael Jackson!

Want to be like Mike? This Thriller-inspired Red Motorcycle-style Short Leather Jacket by Forzieri is sure to jump start your MJ wardrobe with zippered detailing along the sleeves and a tough buckle tab along the band collar.

Another PYT (Pretty Young Thing) to add to your MJ fashion collection is Therapy's Denim waistcoat. This grey military-style sleeveless jacket/ vest is a light-weight, cotton mix - featuring seven bottons on each side.

Throw on 12th Street by Cynthia Vincent Sequined Navy super sexy vest to update and accessorize any of your current outfits! Wear over a maxi dress, or over a tee with faded (Billie) jeans for a funky bohemian feel. Cropped, and slightly fitted.

This Circus Woman Tee reminds me of the classic 80's t-shirts that Michael used to wear; similar to what he wore in the "Beat It" music video. You can purchase it at Charlotte Russe for $10. This adorable tee features a crew neck, cap sleeves, and a circus woman design graphic print.

Finally, how could I forget the famous black hats Michael wore during his performances before throwing them into the crowd! Top off your MJ ensemble with this black wool, smooth Goorin Brothers Blake Felt Fedora Hat. It features a pintucked silk band offers contrast and a soft felt finish - just the way Michael would have liked.

At Fashion With Fifi, we believe that "Fashion Is Foremost Inspiration". There's no denying that Michael Jackson inspired many through his music, fashion, and dance moves. Words can't express just how sadden I am by his untimely death. MJ was truely the "Greatest of All time!" I would like to celebrate his legacy and not mourn his death because he'll forever live on through his music:

Michael Jackson - New Music - More Music Videos

R.I.P. Michael Jackson!

- Suzanna