Let the Rebel Inside You Come out to Play
This is not your 1980s punk rock or 1990s grunge rock — it’s a new polished rock ’n’ roll look with a dose of glamour.
A few elements from rock and heavy metal have found their way into current trends. Skull-and-crossbone patterns, shiny studs and zippers are some of the details that dotted spring runway shows.
Anna Sui, known for her outlandish shows, displayed a contrast of rock and romance. Short spiky wigs were splashed with vivid blues, purples and pinks. Edgy hair and makeup were softened with sweet patterned fabrics, ruffles and bows.
“The look for spring 2008 is all about 1930s and ’40s Hollywood glamour as filtered through the nostalgic sensibility of 1970s glam,” Sui said.
Cutting-edge designer Miuccia Prada wowed us with her mix of hippie and rocker chic. Flowing hand-painted fabrics were paired with studded biker boots and fabric chokers. Innocent, feminine dresses were given a rock star twist with black leather.
Makeup styling was on the edge, too. At Prada, eyes were rimmed with black kohl liner, and faces were pale. Makeup artist Pat McGrath called the look, “Art nouveau, bold, brave and sexy.”
It’s a good idea to exercise moderation when introducing this trend into your wardrobe. Pick one or two elements, perhaps a studded bracelet and boots, and pair them with more mainstream pieces in your closet.
Rock Glam: Rock-star style is all grown up with sparkling embellishments. This mini-dress by Sass & Bide is covered in sequins with two front pockets — perfect as a dress or a tunic over leggings. Sass & Bide dress $760, Standard Style Boutique; Anatomie long-sleeve white tee $79, Steelballet; Rebel Designs gunmetal bracelet $119, Feng
Short Shorts: Micro-short shorts accented with a floral-trimmed belt skimmed the runway of Anna Sui’s spring collection. A soft short-sleeved blouse and sheer sequined bolero finished off the look.
Posh Punk: Skulls and crossbones are dotting fabrics and accessories. This Eccentric Symphony tank dress is topped with a Retribution crystal-trimmed hoodie. Eccentric Symphony dress $130, Steelballet; Retribution hoodie $326, Standard Style Boutique
Fine Lines: Anna Sui’s spring collection was awash in bright-hued stripes. This mini-dress displays some of her bolder bands of color, cinched at the waist with a stretch sequin belt.
Bright Future: 1980s neon colors highlighted this striped bolero and scarf in Anna Sui’s spring line. Trousers adorned with sailor-style buttons were high-waisted with flowing, full legs.