This fall, expect a throwback to the ‘80s with a variety of elements from this colorful era coming back. Many trends this fall season are also inspired by the ‘20s and ‘40s as well, with puffed sleeves, rich textured fabrics and touches of lace and fur.

The ‘80s era, though, presents many trends that were once considered “fashion don’ts” which are now the hottest must-have looks.

Shoulder pads

With designer labels such as Balmain incorporating the very ‘80s touch of shoulder pads into dresses and blazers, the shoulder pad is back and looking more polished than ever.

The body fitting silhouette which accompanies the bold look evens out the broad shoulder, and appears less football player-esque.

In staying in tune with the pronounced shoulder, the puffed sleeve appeared on runways this fall as well. If you aren’t keen on sporting the shoulder pad look just yet, the puffed sleeve gets the job done but with a softer, feminine approach.

With designers such as Joan Crawford and Dolce & Gabbana incorporating the look into their designs, the puffed sleeve is appearing on blouses and dresses in lace and velvet.

 

“ The ‘80s era presents many trends that were once considered ‘fashion don’ts’ which are now the hottest must-have looks

Denim

One of the most sought after looks this fall is denim. Whether it’s cut-off shorts, acid wash or distressed denim, the jean is a must-have this coming fall.

Incorporated into vests, jackets and blazers, denim can be worn with just about anything. Combined with leather, this look definitely exudes a biker chic look and encourages you to DIY when it comes to putting looks together. Anyone can do this, as it is really hard to mess up this already messed up look!

The “mom-jean,” often considered a major fashion don’t, is seen on the runways of Marc Jacobs this fall. With the pleats, high-waist and all, the so called “mom-jean” is now polished, more streamlined and less frumpy than you can imagine.

Knits

Pull out your old scarves and sweaters your grandmother knitted you years ago. Knits are back in oversized sweaters and bold bright colours, bringing that warm and comfy quality we need as we begin to feel that chill in the air.

Michael Kors, Missoni and Rag & Bone collections that include loose knits accented with fur detail combine both fashion and comfort in the upcoming season. If you are a knitter, create your own designs with long, up to the elbow gloves or loose hood-scarves known as scoods.

Knit hair accessories, such as headbands and loose toques, can be worn straight into the colder winter months.

Neon/metallic

Bold colors in bright, vibrant neon and metallics could be associated with more of a summer trend, but is prevalent in fall fashions as well.

Bright pinks, as seen in Dolce & Gabbana, are used in dresses and accessories. They add an exciting accent to an otherwise typical black fall/winter wardrobe. Metallic gold leggings (from designers like BGBG Max Azria) and loose fitting tops (from Etro) also add a touch of the unexpected. These bright colors can be combined with rich textures like wool, leather and tweed.

Often seen as pure ‘80s retro, these looks have been reinvented but still keep their own unique flair. Whether one associates metallic with Hammer pants, or denim button-up shirts with episodes of Degrassi, these looks take a modern approach which can be seen in a new light.

Published in Volume 64, Number 2 of The Uniter (September 10, 2009)