Gucci designer Alessandro Michele and actor Jared Leto! Name a more iconic duo—and I will not wait, because I know we’ll be here forever. Michele and Leto have forged one of fashion’s great friendships and creative partnerships, traveling together, attending events together, and inspiring each other in all things tonsorial, embroidered, and millinered. It was their bond that brought us Leto at the Met Gala carrying his own head, after all.
The latest entry in this alliance was Michele’s exclusive wardrobe for Leto’s tour this past summer with his band, Thirty Seconds to Mars. To mark the occasion, and demystify the fashions, he agreed to answer a few key questions about putting together these killer ensembles for the stage—and tells us that actually, um, he’s not sure what happened to that copy of his head.
How would you describe the look you wanted for this tour?
We wanted it to be vibrant, alive, and fun. Working with the Gucci gang was an absolute pleasure as always. I can’t tell you how grateful I am to be a part of that big, crazy Italian family.
And how did you and Alessandro approach achieving it? Did you look at old photographs, paintings, vintage or antique textiles—what kinds of references were your starting point?
We looked at photographs, sketches, fabrics, colors. When you’re working with Alessandro and his team, it’s always an adventure, it’s always inspired, and the process is filled with a lot of passion and creativity.
Does what you wear onstage require a different energy than what you wear otherwise? When you're performing, do you want to reveal something of yourself, or is it more like playing a character?
When I’m on stage, I’m more myself than almost any other point in my life. There's no character. It’s just that communication with my brother [Leto’s brother, Shannon, is the band’s percussionist], with the audience, and with the music.
Is it better to look untouchable, or totally natural?
I would say it’s best to be yourself. And as always, probably good to break some rules.
You have amazing chemistry with Gucci clothing. You wear capes on this tour, for example, but you don't look so regal that it's remote. There's something really tactile about the way you wear it. What's the secret to interpreting it so well?
Well, I was born in Louisiana, so that probably balances out any chance of getting too regal, but I have a lot of help from the Gucci team. They’re an incredible group of people. So talented, so gifted. I feel really fortunate to work with Alessandro and this motley crew of artists and craftspeople that he’s put together.
What did you do with your head after the Met Gala?
Honestly, I have no idea. I think someone may have stolen it. If anyone out there finds it, bring it into your nearest Gucci store in exchange for a pair of dirty sneakers.
The boy wonder and Sterling Ruby team up for a #BigFitoftheDay.
