Friday, 24 April 2009

POWER PLAY

80ies power dressing may not be as outdated as we all like to believe. It so happens that a vast amount of designers are once again incorporating built-in shoulder pads to add incredible angles and structure to basic blazers and jackets. Both men and womenswear have been transformed back to the future, so to speak. Essentially this Fall it’s all about the strong power suit, yet retro concepts have definitely been redefined to suit modern needs.

Any man knows buying a suit that will stand the test of time is a mission…to cuff or not to cuff? The choice of skinny or baggy trouser legs creates many a moral dilemma on Saville Row, which now perhaps can be averted. Take for instance Jill Sander’s FW/09 charcoal suit styled with a dark turtleneck (men.style.com/fashion). The sharp lines with a slight hinge on the shoulders add to the subtle tailored look, giving any lean frame clear distinction and assertiveness. Vivienne Westwood’s take is directly reminiscent of 80ies masculine shapes (viviennewestwood.com). Her cream suit with waistcoat is incredibly versatile with regards to styling as the long jacket means business. Importantly this suit leaves enough room in the arms allowing for rolled up sleeves, giving the look a ready-to-work attitude.

The rolled up sleeve look is also a staple regarding womenswear currently. Hermès’ incredible ‘Indian Summer’ belted and rolled sleeved combinations actually managed to combine power shapes with fringe, the current hype of the Highstreet (try to avoid the Cowboy and Indians look though). Yet Acne provides perhaps the most potential for power (shop.acnestudios.com). The brand’s ‘Corine Pre’ suit jacket uses simple lines to maximum effect, as high placement of the pockets elongate the torso whilst the jacket’s square cut add stark angles to the shoulders. Combining these jackets with tights and Marni-esque heels will definitely update any look, giving a formal feel. Fashion tells us we are in the midst of an 80ies revival; surely we the babies of the 80ies should grab this opportunity by both hands?