Remember early Madonna and Simple Minds, Valley Girl and Ton Sur Ton, The Facts of Life and Izod shirts, asymmetrical hair cuts and Connect Four – “Pretty sneaky, Sis.” Not to mention Q*bert, Rubik’s Cube, Capezio shoes and “I’ll Stop the World and Melt with You.” Like the first time around, a decade of flared pants, ponchos and platform shoes will be replaced with Preppy Handbooks, parachute pants and jelly shoes. For the more priggish tastes, some designers have even resurrected a little of that Little House on the Prairie puritanical look.
Ironically, just as the Republicans return to the White House, the ’80s are back – and, it seems, without a trace of irony. So break out that sexy off the shoulder number and flash-dance your way into becoming fashionably fabulous.
The sweater vest and other country club accoutrements
If a stroll through Barneys Coop is any indication, the V-neck sweater vest is the fashion victims’ “must have” item of the season. Other “must have” country club accoutrements circa 1983 include bright green tote bags, canvas belts lined with ducks and an Adidas visor, to keep the sun out of your eyes and your hair in place. Remember, you don’t have to be a member of a country club to look like one.
Tennis anyone?
Just because you can’t hit like Martina Hingis, doesn’t mean you can’t look like her. A precious pleated skirt and a matching cap sleeved shirt, garnished with a cable-knit sweater delicately draped over the shoulders, will make a splash at posh pool parties this summer. At the very least, both men and women should own at least one Polo shirt. And don’t forget to turn up the collar.
Zip it
Of course, punk rock fans would never have been caught dead in a V-neck sweater or a bright green tote bag, let alone a ducky belt or a pleated skirt. Fortunately, fashion designers have also taken the darker side of the ’80s into consideration when designing their spring lines. Along with micro minis and studded leather belts, you’ll find zippers everywhere.
Think pump
Platforms are passe, flats obsolete and mules have virtually disappeared from shoe departments across the country. When purchasing your footwear this spring season, think pump! Whether they’re strappy or solid, pumps should adorn the feet of everyone who’s anyone this season.
Big hair
The ’00s simply wouldn’t be the ’80s without some of the decade’s signature high rise hair. So, tease it, spray it, gel it, blow it. Come on, this is Jersey! We invented big hair.
Call me
Just so you know that you haven’t actually traveled back in time to a decade of Pac-man and Brat Packs, don’t forget your cell phone. Everyone from Wall Street executives to personal trainers to spoken word poets to the Current’s favorite columnist Chris Halleron to my mother, has one. And you should too. Call me!