A generation-defining pop star, George Michael left an enduring legacy on not only the music industry, but also the world of fashion at large.

George Michael was the stuff of legends. With his strobing <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/fashion/70s-fashion-fall-winter-2021-vintage-inspired" target="_blank" rel="noopener">disco lights</a>, scantily-clad background dancers, model-studded music videos, consecutive number one hit songs, and aptitude for fashionable dress, Michael was unparalleled. 
Having stepped onto the music scene in 1982 as a member of the now-iconic band Wham! alongside bandmate Andrew Ridgely, the level of influence Michael was able to attain at the height of his career was rarified air. The late English singer adopted a sense of style that complemented his infamous bad-boy persona, often sporting a dangling gold crucifix from one ear and frequently stepping out in worn-out <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/fashion/best-designer-moto-jackets-to-shop-fall" target="_blank" rel="noopener">leather jackets</a> and <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/fashion/ripped-jeans-fashion-trend-spring-summer-2021" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ripped jeans</a>. These style signatures became emblematic of the era, and as '80s trends re-emerge, they're seeing a new lease on life.&nbsp;
Through his sartorial prowess, Michael became just as renowned for his expressive edge as he was for his elucidating love ballads. To commemorate what would have been the pop legend&rsquo;s 59th birthday, see his lasting impact with four of Michael's fashion hallmarks that remain relevant to this day.&nbsp;

While the latest revival of the dangly earring trend has seemingly been pioneered by TikTokers and <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/pop-culture/what-is-soft-boy-aesthetic-harry-styles-timothee-chalamet" target="_blank" rel="noopener">e-boys</a>, it is none other than Gerge Michael, the forefather of the lone dangly earring, who first brought it to life (or at least, to the mainstream). Back then, the <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/fashion/big-earrings-fashion-trend" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ear candy</a> doubled as both a fashion statement and a rebellion against traditional notions of <a href="https://www.lofficiel.cy/people/harry-styles-defeating-toxic-masculinity-and-leaving-his-stigma-in-the-fashion-industry" target="_blank" rel="noopener">masculinity</a>&mdash;30 years later, the accessory serves the same purpose.&nbsp;

Throughout the '80s, Michael often donned <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/fashion/slouchy-suit-trend-80s-spring-2021" target="_blank" rel="noopener">slouchy blazers</a> both on stage and during casual, day-to-day outings. The relaxed, comfortably-tailored silhouette was a wardrobe staple for the pop star, who often wore the style with a cotton white tee underneath, or with no shirt at all.&nbsp;

No thoughts just George Michael in short shorts. The micro-trend of the '80s that Michael so often partook in has seemingly made a comeback, with members of Generation Z expressing the same appreciation for men's short-shorts that Michael did during his heyday. Young people have begun taking to social media to urge men to make the switch from <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/fashion/how-to-wear-bermuda-shorts-street-style-bella-hadid-kendall-jenner" target="_blank" rel="noopener">knee-skimming shorts</a> to a slightly more thigh-baring, 5-inch seam short, instead, which is now thought to be more flattering.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The tried-and-true style was a key piece in Michael's wardrobe, and has unwaveringly remained in style since his time in the spotlight. Brands like <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/fashion/diesel-glenn-martens-spring-summer-2022-collection" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Diesel</a> and <a href="https://www.lofficielusa.com/fashion-week/burberry-fall-winter-2021-riccardo-tisci-runway" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Burberry</a> are among many who continue to offer newfangled takes on the <a href="https://lofficielbaltics.com/en/fashion/in-spring-a-breakthrough-in-leather-jackets-is-promised" target="_blank" rel="noopener">classic style</a>.&nbsp;

@georgemichaelfam

4 George Michael Style Signatures That Live On

L'OFFICIEL USA December 2024 - Julianne Moore Cover

4 George Michael Style Signatures That Live On

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