How To Wear The Spring Summer 2009 '80s Trend
Without Looking Like You’ve Stepped Out Of A Tragic Time Machine
Jun 24, 2009
Often – perhaps unfairly – referred to as "the decade that style forgot," it seems designers think differently as the ‘80s have been the chosen decade of referral and imitation for this and the past two seasons.
The styling of this decade is kitsch and fun and the key to pulling of the trend is moderation. Mixing and matching key items will allow you to work the trend without looking like a carbon copy of Madonna circa Like A Virgin.
By picking one or two of these key items to wear at a time, you can safely embrace the trend:
- Shoulder Pads – Sewing shoulder pads into blouses or t-shirts you already own is a really easy and cheap way to interpret this trend. However, if you are particularly broad shouldered, then you should steer clear of this one.
- Skinny Acid Washed / Ripped Jeans – They should look like you’ve been wearing them for months and they’ve never been washed. Sounds bad, looks good. Team with big shoulders for the ultimate '80s look.
- High Waists – On skirts and trousers, belly buttons should be covered at all times. This is a flattering shape to wear, which emphasises the waist and covers up any tummy bulges (unless you go for a super-tight option.)
- Oversized t-shirts – Buy a t-shirt - preferably with a logo or a band t-shirt for that true ‘80’s feel - a few sizes too big, then use an optional belt to waist it or wear it loose over your skinny acid washed / ripped jeans.
- Cropped Tops – If you have a toned tummy (and probably best if you're under the age of 30) then embrace the shortened top with high waisted jeans and show a sneaky sliver of flesh. Otherwise, layer the cropped top over a longer one, tucking the longer into your skirt or jeans for a retro twist to your normal outfit.
- Jelly Shoes – The fun of the ‘80s trend is wearing things that you used to when you were a kid (well, current age depending…) jelly sandals are colourful, comfy and add that ‘80s tinge to any outfit.
- Excess Amounts Of Jewellery – Bangles that go up to your elbows and enough necklaces to make Mr. T jealous will give you that “I love consumerism” look that encapsulates the ‘80s. Accessories are the only part of the trend that you can get away with going overboard on. Get down to a market or car-boot sale and pick up copious amounts of jewellery for very little money.
As the ‘80s also strongly influenced the Autumn / Winter '09 catwalks, learning how to wear the trend excellently now, will fare you well throughout the year. Adding a denim or leather jacket for those colder months, of course.
To make extra sure you get it right, click here to see what you should avoid.
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