Yahoo Lifestyle Luigi Mangione’s ‘Loafers,’ ‘Outfit’ and ‘Ankles’ Go Viral as His Unexpected Fashion Influence Persists After Latest Court Appearance
The internet obsession with Luigi Mangione’s fashion choices gained a new chapter on Friday after he appeared for a hearing at the Manhattan Criminal Court in New York City. The man suspected of killing UnitedHealthcare chief executive officer Brian Thompson wore a dark green knit sweater, khaki pants and brown loafers to the courtroom — a look that soon went viral.
In less than 24 hours since his last court appearance, searches for “luigi mangione outfits” spiked by 350 percent on Google. His shoe choice, however, seems to have grabbed most of the attention, with searches for “luigi mangione loafers” spiking by 1,400 percent, and luigi mangione ankles” surging by 500 percent.
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On X (formerly known as Twitter), users didn’t waste time to show how one can “steal Luigi Mangione’s look” or praise his latest outfit. “He is such a fashionable hero,” said one tweet.
This is the second time Mangione has gone viral with his outfit. On Dec. 23, he appeared for his arraignment at the Manhattan courtroom, wearing a burgundy sweater that prompted an online discussion. While TikTok users discussed what brand Magione’s outfit was from, Nordstrom and Maison Margiela sold out similar burgundy sweaters online.
Levi’s, Peak Design, Tommy Hilfiger and Monopoly were also previously referenced in news stories and social media posts about the case.
While his fashion choices continue to go viral, Mangione’s courtroom style has remained conservative. Both dark green and burgundy, the colors of his sweaters, are considered respected and recommended colors for a courtroom appearance.
Mangione was arrested on Dec. 9 at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pa., following a five-day manhunt. He faces 11 counts in New York, including first-degree murder in furtherance of terrorism. Mangione pled not guilty to all his charges.
On Feb. 14, Mangione made his first formal statement since his arrest on a website launched by his New York defense team.
“I am overwhelmed by — and grateful for — everyone who has written me to share their stories and express their support,” he said in the statement. “Powerfully, this support has transcended political, racial, and even class divisions, as mail has flooded MDC from across the country, and around the globe. While it is impossible for me to reply to most letters, please know that I read every one that I receive.”
A trial date has yet to be set in the case.
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