Rumor has it that fashion repeats itself every 20 or 30 years. For reasons unbeknownst to me, this season’s designers are rather overexcited about blasts from the past. Traces of several distinctively memorable decades have been revived and sent down the runway in one form or another. I don’t have an explanation for this sudden time travel, but the good news about the over-the-top phenomenon is that you can draw inspiration from any decade and still land totally on trend with the here and now.

This does not mean it’s okay to raid Value Village and walk the streets looking like a Golden Girl. But renewing subtle characteristics of years gone by can bring a surprisingly fresh twist to current ensembles. Here’s the A-List of revisited decades and how to incorporate each one into your modern day style:

1960s: Cropped military jackets have returned, but with feminine features that tone down the army vibe. The coats are sharp and traditionally tailored, but usually come in shimmery pastels with flirty buttons and embellishments. It’s a Sergeant Pepper remix that’s anything but olive drab. I’ve also found Audrey Hepburn style dresses at stores like White House Black Market. With black on white prints, tight bodices, and swingy bottoms that hit mid calf, these pieces are adorable for dress up occasions.

1970’s: This is probably the most prominent decade on the runway. From maxi dresses and lace up sandals to slouchy jeans and leather headbands, these trends are comfortable and completely boho chic. Diane von Furstenberg does it best, but you’ll find 70s styles everywhere from Free People to Anthropologie. If you’re really into it, visit authentic throwback boutiques like Yellow Jacket and Dragonfly.

1980s: Designers like Michael Kors have traded traditional spring florals for mod color blocks, chunky bags, and big bangles. I advise some caution with this decade. While the 80s rocked bold colors and shapes, they are also eternally scarred by teased hair, velour sweatsuits, and bedazzled jean jackets. Throwing a retro miniskirt or colored jeans on with your everyday attire will liven the outfit without making an overstatement.

1990s: I never thought I’d see traces of the 90s returning so soon, but the evidence is beginning to surface. Subtle neon accents and sequins are making a splash on clean cardigans and tennis dresses. Lacoste and Isaac Mizrahi for Target get this look just right. As summer draws near, look out for hot pink dresses, shoes, and skirts. Yes, Barbie fans, it’s coming back.

With all this time sensitive information, I have to wonder how the fashion of our decade will be remembered. It’s impossible to tell how the styles will evolve, but my advice is to save all of your designer (or even semi-decent) attire. You, your friends, or your siblings will probably enjoy reviving them years from now!

You’re Beautiful,
Alise

Fashion is a form of ugliness so intolerable that we have to alter it every six months.
Oscar Wilde