We’ve all heard that the ’80s are back, and here’s further proof: The punk-influenced look that showed up on the runways last fall is cropping up here for spring.
“This spring’s hottest fashions are inspired by some of our favorite urban-pop artists. If it’s bright, over the top, punk chic or just plain sexy, it’s in,” says Christopher Hale, fashion consultant and personal stylist for Bottega Contessa on Delaware Place.
A tough edge is being injected into clothing that has, for the past few years, been very feminine and hippie-ish. The looks inspired by the French designers, however, may be way too “over the top” for Chicagoans’ tastes: John Galliano offered overly ripped leggings and teeny leather tops, while John Paul Gaultier showed fishnet tube tops and the miniest of mini skirts.
“Punk glam is an undercurrent in many of the spring collections this year,” says Kal Ruttenstein, Bloomingdale’s senior vice president for fashion direction. “Helmut Lang, among others, is showing lots of straps, bandages and torn pieces with a slightly punk attitude.”
Despite the influence of the runways, this “Joan Jett” craze may not be for everyone-and even in today’s casual-dress climate, ripped tights and a thigh-high skirt likely won’t cut it at the office. But a punky style can be incorporated into your wardrobe just by adopting one piece to spice up any outfit. Fishnets are a good place to start. And for a night on the town, top them off with a leather skirt, sleeveless top and motorcycle boots.
The new punk chic look also includes shoes with pointy toes, clothing with mannish tailoring, graffiti, cutouts, lots of black and harsh makeup.
For a more toned-down ’80s vibe, dust off an old rock ‘n’ roll muscle tee from a favorite concert and pair it with slim-legged jeans or a denim skirt. For the daring, bobby socks and pointy heels will send you spinning back to Material Girl status.
Flashy Trash on Halsted Street carries used ’80s garb at ’80s prices. For an upscale punk style, Barneys New York has designer spinoffs of all the latest trends. And check out your own attic or closet for those school favorites you never thought you’d wear again.
