Jaafar Jackson Wore Ralph Lauren To The ‘Michael’ Japan Premiere
Lionsgate and Kino Films hosted the Japan premiere of Michael at TOHO Cinemas Roppongi Hills in Tokyo, ahead of its theatrical release in Japan on June 12.
This has been one of my favourite press tours of the year, so I was delighted to see Jaafar Jackson give us one more fashion moment, and it might just be my favourite of them all.
Wearing Ralph Lauren, Jaafar stepped onto the red carpet in a military-inspired black jacket detailed with intricate frogging, paired with sharply tailored trousers, a high-collared white shirt, white socks and velvet slippers. Considering everything we know about Ralph Lauren, this isn’t a look many would immediately associate with the American house. Had I seen it without context, I would have guessed Balmain from the Olivier Rousteing era, when military tailoring and ornate detailing were recurring signatures of the house.
What makes this look so successful is how naturally it connects to Michael Jackson’s enduring fashion legacy. Military jackets became one of the singer’s most recognisable style signatures, appearing throughout his career in various forms, often decorated with braiding, embellishment and ceremonial detailing. The white socks are another instantly recognisable reference. Michael turned what was once a practical stage choice into one of his defining style trademarks, and seeing them incorporated here immediately strengthens the connection.
Yet none of it feels overly literal. Rather than recreating a famous costume, Jaafar takes familiar elements associated with Michael and filters them through modern tailoring. Throughout this press tour he has consistently found ways to honour Michael’s influence while maintaining his own identity, and this look encapsulates that balance perfectly. It feels respectful, contemporary and entirely fitting for a film centred on one of music’s most influential style figures.
Jaafar was joined on the red carpet by his co-star Juliano Valdi, who plays a young Michael Jackson in the film. Wearing a black velvet jacket accented with metallic trim, a crisp white shirt and tailored trousers, his look also felt like a subtle nod to the King of Pop. Together, the pair delivered a fitting finale to a press tour that has understood the importance of fashion in telling Michael Jackson’s story.
Stylist: Ilaria Urbinati.
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