If the re-election of President Bush in 2004 taught you anything, it’s that sometimes—against all logical odds—history repeats itself in an insufferable way. Fashion is no exception. Just when you thought you experienced your last decade resurgence with Diane Von Furstenberg’s ’40s-inspired fall 2008 line, here hustle the ’70s!
Everyone seems to be delving into their beaded-curtain-lined closets and emerging with something old-school. Take Yves Saint Laurent, who, just before his recent passing, dressed Naomi Campbell in high-waisted black Bianca Jagger-inspired sequined pants for his new ad campaign, or the costuming for the CBS prime-time drama “Swingtown.” These new looks also have their own twist; they're less reminiscent of the Hendrix hippie-grunge era than the polished glamour of Studio 54.
Before you get carried away and start dressing like the mayor of Funkytown, take note of which specific trends from the decade are making a comeback and which ones are as dead as Disco Duck.
The wedge: Barneys CO-OP at the Grove currently carries Miu Miu's summer shoe collection, which includes both wooden and bamboo wedges. Sigerson Morrison and Marc Jacobs have both recently jumped on the platform-designing platform—their wedges can be found at high-end retailers Neiman Marcus and Madison Los Angeles. For those shopping on a more modest budget, bargain chain DSW has an extensive collection (really extensive—it’s a warehouse) to choose from, carrying chunky-heeled brands like Anne Klein and Steve Madden.
High-waisted slacks: Two words: Annie Hall. While cleavage-clamping jeans and other-sky high bottoms made of casual materials have been all the rage for quite some time now, it’s because of stars like Katie Holmes and Victoria Beckham wearing high-waisted trousers by Hermes and Christian Dior this season that have made the pant more upscale as of late. If going for the authentic vintage look, you can find them at Squaresville in Los Feliz. If thrifting isn’t really your style, Forever 21 and H&M are both reliable alternatives.
Animal prints: A classic since the '50s but a rock ’n’ roll necessity made popular by the New York City punk scene in the '70s, animal prints—from leopard to zebra to giraffe to cow—are rearing their patterned head once again. Rogan Gregory's recent GO International line for Target featured many white garments adorned with both leopard and cow prints. Paris Hilton was recently photographed wearing a zebra print top with beau Benji Madden on her arm, befitting her new punk rock persona. Leading the animal print crusade, Bettina Duncan's killer line of leopard handbags can be found at Fred Segal. Finally, don’t forget about Betsey Johnson—always dependable for cheetah-print camis, sweaters and dresses.
Flowy dresses: Diane Von Furstenberg may not have invented the flowy, ankle-length patterned dress, but her name sure has become synonymous with its design. A statement of class and summer fun, the flowy dress is the perfect choice anytime, day or night. Nicole Richie and André Leon Talley have both recently been photographed at red carpet events wearing the disco-era designer's big, bold creations—available at the Diane Von Furstenberg store on Melrose. Native in Franklin Village currently offers an all-inclusive collection in a variety of prints and fabrics (ranging from $60 to $300), while also allowing for the occasional snag from the $20 rack. Free People also manufactures a similar style, which can be found at Urban Outfitters.
Short shorts: Who wears short shorts? These days, apparently everyone. It’s down with the Osmond family and up with hemlines for both girls and boys this season. Many young Hollywood starlets—including Kirsten Dunst, Hayden Panettiere and model Agyness Deyn—have been spotted sporting tiny jean short cutoffs similar to the ones Daisy Duke once wore. Boys—once restricted to wearing shorts so long they could be mistaken for capri pants—are now able to revel in the joys of easy, breezy, above-the-knee hemlines. Fred Segal carries unisex Idol Radec shorts, while A.P.C. currently offers a specifically summer line for both men and women called Madras. When on the hunt for vintage hot pants, ladies ought to check out American Rag and Aardvark's.
Sequins: Finally! The little trend that could—the one that nobody ever thought would make a comeback—is here! Channel your inner Liza Minelli and let yourself go crazy with shimmery pants, tops, jackets and accessories. While YSL's design made famous by Naomi Campbell is currently available at the Rodeo Dr. boutique, a less expensive version in gold by Alexander Wang is also available at Opening Ceremony.
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