Fashion designer Marc Jacobs stated in a recent interview that he would be willing to style Luigi Mangione, the confessed assassin of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, for his upcoming trial. Jacobs also commented on Mangione's current courtroom fashion, calling him a "trendsetter."
In an appearance on Vanity Fair's Lie Detector Test podcast, Jacobs was shown a photograph of Mangione and asked if he would consider styling him for his trial. Jacobs, after a moment of laughter, responded affirmatively. He also noted that Mangione "looks pretty good the way he dresses, actually."
Mangione's attire in court has drawn public and media attention since his arrest in December 2024. Notable outfits have included Rockport loafers without socks, a detail that was captured in photographs of his shackled ankles. His choice of a red sweater, worn in court, reportedly sold out at Nordstrom stores, which Jacobs acknowledged as evidence of his trendsetting influence.
Donna Rotunno, a criminal defense attorney and Fox News contributor, expressed disappointment with the designer's remarks. "I find it sad," Rotunno said in an interview, referring to any designer expressing support for an admitted killer. Rotunno, known for her meticulous courtroom fashion choices during Harvey Weinstein's trial, emphasized the importance of courtroom presentation, suggesting that excessive styling for Mangione could diminish any sympathy he might have garnered from a jury.
Mangione admitted to stalking Thompson from Minnesota to New York City before shooting him on December 4, 2024. His actions have led to both federal and state charges.
Mangione recently pleaded guilty to federal charges, which could potentially resolve his state case through a double jeopardy claim. He faces a maximum sentence of life in prison at his sentencing on December 18, though federal guidelines suggest 25 to 30 years. The judge is not bound by these guidelines.
Rotunno cautioned that dressing Mangione too flamboyantly in court could be detrimental to his defense. "You have to be careful in front of juries," she advised.