Throwing yourself completely into any trend is never going to be a good look. And as the ‘80’s look was hit-and-miss the first time round, the Boy George in Culture Club look is not going to go down well in 2009. To ensure you are not going to be a source of ridicule, here’s a guide on what to avoid:
- Leg Warmers – Technically, they should be called ankle and calf warmers as that is where they sit. For no good reason. They add extra bulk to your frame and serve no purpose. Should definitely stay very much in the past.
- Tie-Dye – Originally hitting the big time in the ‘60s, it made a resurgence in the ‘80s, especially in the form of headbands and heat triggered t-shirts that changed colour the more you sweated. Nice.
- Neon – In moderation – such as bangles or a belt, for example – this particular aspect of ‘80s fashion can accentuate an outfit, however; full on t-shirts or leggings are way too much and you run the risk of looking like a broken traffic light.
- Ra - Ra Skirts – Only to be attempted if you are aged 15 or under. Firstly, the tiered layers of material will accentuate your bum and thighs, areas that women generally don’t want inches added to. Secondly, the skirts are generally are made in gaudy (sometimes neon) patterns, which never look stylish.
- Bra Over t-shirts – Layering a cropped top over a longer one is the best way to work this. Actually putting your bra over a top will only work if you are some sort of model and even then you might get some strange looks.
- Harem Pants – They immediately call up the image of MC Hammer and that’s not a look that anyone should want to copy. Also, the unfortunate sagging around the crotch area can give the impression you are wearing a large nappy…
- Leotards – All-in-ones, body suits – whatever name they go by – were not only worn for that huge ‘80s fitness craze, aerobics. Leotards were incorporated into everyday life and they actually look fine with a pair of skinny jeans. It’s not the visual aspect of this item that is the problem, it’s the practical. You have to take everything off to visit the bathroom, which is impractical and time consuming!
Don’t let these pointers put you off the decade, though. There is a reason it is having a resurgence this season; worn correctly, '80s fashion can provide flattering and structured shapes and inject an element of fun into your wardrobe. By avoiding the above and picking the right parts of the decade, you can cut a very stylish figure.
So now that you know what not to wear, find out how to successfully embrace the ‘80s trend.
Jennifer McNulty - I am an experienced fashion writer, and have written for both print and online publications, including Marie Claire Online, Freestyle ...
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