Some decades’ style are defined by soft swirls and flowing silhouettes, others sheer textures and grunge aesthetics. But there’s something unapologetic about 80s style, with its bold geometric prints, oversized boxy blazers and bold, gold accessories. It’s all about making a statement, from figure-hugging tube dresses with voluminous puff sleeves, to leggings and dancewear. Think old school Versace meets Chanel, plenty of bling with a smartness and no-nonsense attitude: and it’s all back for SS23, with YSL leading the way.

80s Style For SS23

Power Shoulders

It started with Balenciaga’s Resort show where 80s corporate silhouettes and latex were the order of the day, inspiring a workwear revolution. The high-shine double-breasted blazer was also on show on the Khaite runway at New York Fashion Week, while shoulder-pads made a comeback at Luar. Carolina Herrera and Proenza Schouler also featured power-shoulder silhouettes. The ultimate inspiration for this 80s silhouette comes from YSL SS23, where the shoulder pads were so big they must have had to widen the runway.

Rosettes

What says ‘I’m retro and I like it’ quite like an 80s style rosette worn as an accessory? At Prabal Gurung they were pinned to the shoulder or hip of asymmetric gowns in 80s-worthy hot pinks and lilacs.

Golden Hour

We can always rely on Tom Ford to bring the most glamorous iteration of a trend and he didn’t disappoint with plenty of volume in the catwalk hair and a nod to 80s style with lamé hot pants.

Club Kids

At Raf Simmons, where the 80s is always present, the SS23 show (hosted in the legendary Printworks club) was all about neon hues reminiscent of four decades previous. Think bright pink or yellow leggings, bodysuits and baggy tank tops. It’s too-cool-to-care loungewear, on acid.

How To Wear It

Ready to tap into the trend? A boxy double-breasted blazer (in latex or a bold, bright hue, if you dare) is the easiest way to revive the 80s at home, especially if you need to update your workwear wardrobe. But for a cooler take on the trend, update your off-duty look to include a bright legging or two, to team with an oversized sweatshirt, your favourite blinging handbag and a pair of gold hoops. Crimped hair optional!

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