Offset has long been known for his distinct style, blending streetwear with unexpected, bold touches. In a recent interview with Billboard, the 32-year-old rapper credited both his time in military school and his admiration for Michael Jackson as key influences shaping his fashion choices.

While shopping at New York City’s Dover Street Market, Offset shared how his love for uniforms, particularly military jackets, comes from his military school background. “A uniform is always well put together,” he said. “That’s crazy you say that, ’cause that’s probably where my inspiration comes from.” He went on to explain that Michael Jackson, who often incorporated military elements into his looks, was a major influence on him as well. “Michael Jackson always loved the military—that was his inspo,” he added.

Offset also highlighted the impact of another Atlanta legend, André 3000, who is known for his boundary-pushing style, like the iconic green outfit in OutKast’s “Hey Ya” video. Offset admires how André challenged Atlanta’s often understated fashion norms, saying, “In Atlanta, it’s kind of, like, ‘Don’t do too much.’ But he wasn’t afraid to think outside the box and go left. People didn’t get what he was doing at first, but now they call him an icon in fashion.”

Offset’s appreciation for streetwear has grown alongside the rise of young designers who, he noted, often see their ideas adopted by bigger brands. “Streetwear is at an all-time high. You catch those vibes and waves of the young people,” he said, encouraging others not to feel pressured to spend excessively to look stylish.

Reflecting on his time in military school, Offset shared that he ended up there after getting into some trouble growing up. But the experience left a lasting mark on his style, inspiring him to incorporate formal, structured looks as a nod to Michael Jackson and to his own past. Offset’s approach blends high fashion, streetwear, and nostalgia, making his style truly one-of-a-kind.