As 2009 takes its final stride down the runway, the time has come for consumers to sit back and reflect on all things past. This season, 80s-inspired trends have made a remarkable recovery in the fashion industry, and even the most questionable pieces have somehow managed to slither their way onto Fashion Week. For whatever reason, designers have presented a plethora of 80s selections, ranging from an extreme spectrum of retro colors to an excessive dash of the classic studs and sequins. Never thought your closet would bear witness to another pair of exaggerated shoulders (Serena Van Der Woodsen? Really?) or leopard leggings? Think again.
With that being said, we present to you a select list of 80s revivals that have remarkably conjured a 180-degree spin into the 21st century.
Shoulder Pads (*insert blood-curdling scream here*)
Remember the good ol’ days when your hair contained enough hairspray to rapture the o-zone layer, and the width of your shoulders was used as a standard measuring device? Apparently those weren’t such bad times, since exaggerated shoulders are back and better (?) than ever. This season you’re sure to find elegantly tailored pieces that sensibly modify the height of your shoulders without making you look like a football player. Paired with skinny jeans and stilettos, shoulder pads instantly add poise to your figure, while flaunting what will seem to be a slimmer waistline.
The Jumpsuits
We know what you’re thinking, but get that stereotypical nylon parachute onesie out of your head! This season, jumpsuits are all about simplicity and elongation. With tailored necklines and sleek designs, that illusion of added length can finally be yours. Accessorize with draping, bulky jewelry, platform heels or even sandals. As long as you stick to a solid color, you have nothing to worry about.
Funky Tights/Leggings
Tights and leggings have, without a doubt, become the number-one essential 80s must-have closet piece. Designed to compliment almost any outfit, leggings/tights are great with tunics, skirts, dresses and even shorts. And reminiscent of the 80s, they all come in versatile designs to satisfy even the strangest personal styles, ranging from polka dots and leopard, to hounds teeth. Hey, at least we know the hosiery market isn’t feeling the recession.
Studs and Sequins and Jewlery (Oh my!)
What’s a 80s throwback without the shine and shimmer? This season, Christmas lights won’t be the only thing testing the extent of your glitter-tolerance. Prepare yourselves for bulky embellishments, high-shine sequins and an abundance of studs. Sequins sprinkled on tunics, gemstones dashed on necklines and studs clustered on practically anything else scream 1980s glam girl. And never forget to go bold with the gold! Complete your bedazzled due with some studded cuffs or chunky necklaces.
Corsets
Okay, we admit that we never saw this one coming. Forget what preconceived notions you might have had about corsets being the restrictive, waist-cinching undergarment from past centuries. This season it’s all about showing the curves in the most comfortable fabrics (yes, you can breathe out now). Dress them up with a chic leather blazer or dress them down with a pencil peplum skirt. Pay your homage to the 80s by taking your corset pick in patent leather, bold color or shiny embellishments.
