I recently made the big move to the UK and the most stressful part was deciding which of my precious clothes had to be left behind. Halfway through this traumatic process my sister gleefully pointed out that all my clothes were probably terribly outdated in London terms so I should probably just chuck everything.
Turns out she was right.
So while I still walk around in clothes that are like, so five years ago (or retro as I optimistically call it) we thought we’d give you a heads up as to what will be heading to SA in Autumn.
The 80s are back baby.
Yup. I said it. And sadly, it’s true. Think shoulder pads. Studs. One shoulder dresses. Sequins, oh the sequins. Ever seen animal print done in sequins? Get ready for it.
Raid your mom’s (or your own) cupboard and haul out those 80s gems that you would never before admit to holding on to. Wear them proudly and know you are ahead of the times. Just please, I beg you, do not accessorise them with a scrunchie and a sideways ponytail.
Matching optional.
So apparently the ‘never wear red and pink together’ rule doesn’t apply here. In fact, the more colour you can wear at once the better. It is pretty liberating actually. I even wore brown boots with black stockings the other day.
So think purple stockings overlain with torn black tights. Add a denim mini, mini mini skirt, red jersey, black jacket, orange scarf and pink hat. And a multi coloured bag naturally.
Talking of mini mini mini…
Tights and leggings are also here to stay. And anything can be worn with leggings — board shorts, skirts, dresses, t-shirts... My personal favourite have to be the ones that are made of a faux denim material (aptly named ‘jeggings’) taking skinny jeans to a whole new level. Embellished stockings are also making a comeback with everything from tie dye to skulls becoming a feature for your legs.
Anyone for a game?
I have never bought shoes for comfort, but I am quickly learning that traipsing around London in high heels is just not fun. Luckily, tennis shoes are set to make a big comeback. They come in every colour under the sun and are relatively cheap to buy. Now, I’m not saying that they are going to elongate your legs or anything, but they are a comfy option to wear to the movies.
But if you really can’t give up your heels, think chunky with the minimal amount of foot exposure. Stilettos have become almost boot-like, covering you all the way to the ankle and just letting your toes peep out. Of course, you should aim for the ones with the hectic studs and zips to get a little 80s in there too.
And for the boys?
The 80s apply here too. I actually saw a torn and frayed stone-washed denim waistcoat in one shop. I wish I was kidding.
Cardigans also seem to be the in thing. From chunky knits to skinny fits, the British modern man is not afraid of his granny, I mean feminine, side. Great in any weather, the whole cardigan trend looks pretty good actually. After all ladies, stealing a cardigan in the chilly evenings will look much better than drowning in a macho bomber jacket.
Got some fashion tips or questions you'd like to add? Tell us about them in the Comments section below.
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