Five Fits With Mitchell S. Jackson, Author of ‘Fly The Big Book of Basketball Fashion

Five Fits With Mitchell S. Jackson, Author of 'Fly The Big Book of Basketball Fashion

The Flyest Book in Town: Mitchell Jackson’s Big Book of Basketball Fashion

Hello, dear readers of the Five Fits With series! Today, I bring you a subject who is not only a Pulitzer Prize winner but also a TED talk speaker. Mitchell Jackson, a distinguished American author, has written numerous articles, a few of which have graced the pages of this very publication. But that’s not all – his work has also been featured in renowned institutions like the New York Times Magazine, Time, The New Yorker, and the Paris Review. And now, he has released his latest masterpiece, Fly: The Big Book of Basketball Fashion, a book that delves deep into the realms of race, culture, and economics, accompanied by breathtaking photographs.

Fly: The Big Book of Basketball Fashion

If you think basketball and fashion don’t mix, think again! Mitchell Jackson shares his intriguing perspectives on the dynamic relationship between fashion, style, class, and race in America. This man knows how to rock some killer outfits, and as the saying goes, “He got that shit on, though.”

Beyond the NBA and his remarkable achievements, Jackson and I had an in-depth conversation about his journey into literature and writing. We explored the significance of his new book, Fly, and how his background and class structure influenced his eye for luxury. Brace yourself for a wild ride!

Fit One: Stylish from Head to Toe

Tank top by Rhude, trousers by Reese Cooper, loafers by Prada, watch by Cartier, and necklaces by David Yurman. Talk about a killer ensemble! Jackson’s fashion game is on point.

“I didn’t start thinking seriously about writing until I was 21,” Jackson admits. But fashion? Ah, now that’s been a love affair since his childhood. Plus, he started playing basketball at the tender age of 10, so you can imagine the impact these two constants had on his life.

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“So, Mitchell, tell us about your journey into writing and your upbringing,” I asked, eager to uncover the details. Growing up in Portland, Oregon, he had teachers who praised his writing skills. However, it wasn’t until his time in prison, at the age of 21, that writing truly captured his attention. From there, his artistic journey kicked off, intertwining with his teaching career.

Fit Two: Timeless Elegance

Shirt by Saint Laurent, trousers by Dries Van Noten, shoes by Celine, and watch by Cartier. Jackson’s style oozes class and sophistication.

Fly is not your average basketball book. Instead of focusing on decades, it breaks the NBA’s history into distinct eras. Each era is defined by historical, social, and religious contexts. Jackson took on the challenge of researching how these factors influenced players’ fashion choices. The result? A captivating journey through time, uncovering the reasons behind the flamboyance of the 1970s and the iconic style of Michael Jordan.

As we delved deeper into his fascination with fashion, I couldn’t help but ask about his personal connection to it. Jackson revealed that his love for fashion stems from a desire to overcome his humble beginnings. Growing up poor, he saw fashion as a way to uplift himself. If he had a hundred dollars, you better believe he was splurging on a pair of Jordans. Fashion became an avenue for self-expression and a means to counter the limitations of poverty.

Fit Three: Making a Statement

Jacket by Givenchy, shorts and loafers by Celine, and watch by Cartier. This is how you make heads turn!

Our conversation naturally shifted toward the representation of Black individuals in the fashion industry, an issue close to Jackson’s heart. His insights were sharp, shedding light on the problematic practices of European brands that often fail to value Black humanity. Instances of racism like Balenciaga’s black face controversy or offensive portrayals of Native Americans continue to highlight the deep-seated issues within the industry. Jackson’s passion for equitable representation was evident as he questioned the true inclusivity of major houses.

“The fashion industry may be more diverse than baseball,” Jackson mused, referencing an article he had written about the lack of Black representation in baseball. Yet, the European heritage brands still have a long way to go in truly embracing Blackness. He marveled at the success of icons like Pharrell, Virgil Abloh, and Karl Kani, who bravely paved the way for Black creatives. However, he stressed the importance of acknowledging the lesser-known talents who emerge from prestigious institutions like FIT.

Fit Four: Timeless Treasures

Jumpsuit by Issey Miyake and loafers by Bottega Veneta. This outfit is the epitome of effortless style.

As we delved into the philosophy of personal style, Jackson drew parallels with his approach to writing. Just like he adheres to certain writing constraints, he believes personal style should have limitations, adding richness and creativity to one’s expression. For him, a simple color palette of black, gray, and occasional pops of red or yellow forces him to explore texture, fit, and layering to create tasteful outfits.

Speaking from the heart, Jackson emphasized that personal style should always reflect one’s identity. Backed by his experiences growing up in poverty, he explained how clothing became a tool for empowerment. It was a way to defy limitations and project the ambition within. Everyone should find what makes them feel authentic, as stepping outside that reflection can result in discomfort.

Fit Five: Stylish till the End

Shirt by Amiri, trousers and loafers by Dries Van Noten, bag by Balenciaga, and watch by Cartier. A perfect blend of style and functionality.

In the midst of our engaging conversation, I couldn’t resist asking Jackson about a meaningful item in his collection. He shared the story behind his gold Rolex, a symbol of triumph over adversity. Purchased when he signed his latest book deal, it represents the realization of his dreams. From a young age, he had observed successful individuals wearing such watches. Now, he proudly wears his own, as a testament to his hard-earned achievements.

To wrap things up, I posed a fun question: If he could only wear one outfit for the rest of his life, what would it be? Jackson’s grounded response reflected his wisdom and appreciation for comfort. A pair of sleek black sneakers, black nylon pants, and a heather gray hoodie would be his go-to choices. After all, what’s style without comfort, right?

So there you have it, folks! Mitchell Jackson, a literary maestro with an impeccable sense of style. His journey through fashion and writing is a testament to the power of self-expression and the profound impact it can have on our lives. Don’t forget to grab a copy of Fly: The Big Book of Basketball Fashion and immerse yourself in a world where style and culture intertwine.

$37 at Bookshop

Source: Harper’s BAZAAR