12 May, 2024
When you think of NBA fashion icons, Pat Riley is a name that stands out not just for his coaching genius but for his impeccable courtside style. This wasn't off-court posturing. Riley made fashion headlines right on the sidelines, bringing Hollywood glamour to the game with every sharp suit he wore. Known for his tailored Armani suits, he wasn't just dressing up for the cameras. For Riley, this was personal style at its peak in the 80s. He believed that dressing the part was crucial to the presence of a leader—someone whom fans and the team could respect and rally behind.
Pat Riley, 1980
Before the sharp silhouettes of Armani became a staple in Pat Riley's wardrobe, his approach to style had deep roots influenced by both personal beliefs and his earlier career. Riley's polished appearance on the sidelines began during his days as a broadcaster. Despite not having the resources early on to invest in high-end fashion, he was always well groomed—a lesson taught by his father, who emphasized the importance of looking well put together whenever stepping out of the house.
As a broadcaster, Riley was already distinguishing himself with a keen sense of style. "Always sort of nattily dressed" as he put it, he represented the philosophy that dressing well was not just about aesthetics but about professionalism and respect. In Los Angeles, long before his collaboration with Armani, Riley found a local tailor who was crucial in helping him lay the foundation for the iconic style he would develop in the years to come.
This early phase of Riley's style journey shows that his iconic fashion sense was a blend of his upbringing, personal values, and the practical steps he took to embody them, setting the stage for his later fame as a fashion icon in the sports world.
Los Angeles Lakers v Washington Bullets, 1988
Pat Riley, affectionately known as "The Godfather" within the NBA, was celebrated not just for his strategic acumen but also for his distinctive style. His appearance, characterised by sleek Armani suits, slick back hairstyle and ever-present grin, embodied a blend of Hollywood gangster glam and Italian elegance, making him a standout figure in the sports world during the 80s and 90s.
Riley's relationship with Giorgio Armani was rooted in more than just commercial interests—it was a genuine friendship that enriched his public persona. As John Potvin details in "Giorgio Armani: Empire of the Senses," Riley's connection with Armani was marked by mutual respect and admiration. This relationship wasn't merely transactional. It was deeply personal, with Riley and his wife Chris receiving $125,000 worth of Armani clothing annually, which constituted approximately 80% of his wardrobe. This arrangement underscored a unique partnership that extended beyond typical celebrity endorsements, positioning Riley as the first unofficial testimonial for the Armani brand.
Los Angeles Lakers, 1981
This collaboration not only enhanced Riley's image but also set a precedent for how fashion can significantly influence professional sports. The partnership demonstrated the power of personal branding and how it can be effectively leveraged to enhance one's professional and public identity. Riley’s consistent choice of Armani suits was not just a personal preference but a strategic move that reinforced his leadership qualities and helped cement his status as a fashion icon in the realm of sports. Interestingly, this iconic status was not something Riley intentionally sought; it emerged naturally as an outcome of his genuine love for style and the easy match of his personal tastes with Armani's designs.
Pat Riley and Wes Matthews, 1988