The 1980s were all about brash colours, self-expression and off-the-map shoulder pads. That energy was back on the runways for 2009, with hot hues, dramatic silhouettes and more lamé than ABBA could squeeze into.
Fashion arbiters explain the return as a hunger for a time when we had more money, fewer responsibilities and nothing but optimism for the future. Unlike the 1990s recession, when Prada-esque minimalism took hold, this time around we seem to be subscribing to the power of positive dressing: If we dress like we're having a good time, maybe we'll actually have a good time.
This refreshing perspective couldn't have come at a more opportune moment. Earth Day is upon us, so it's a perfect time to shop my closet for statement pieces from the past.
Given their origin in an era known for the power suit, the most enduring pieces I found were, not surprisingly, suits and jackets. And since they make such bold statements on their own, pairing them with understated pieces is key. With a few black basics and some updated accessories and shoes, I can not only stay on trend, but feel good about saving myself a whack of dough by reusing, recycling – and revamping.
Hand-painted silk jacket
This silk jacket was custom-made for me by a Toronto artist in the early eighties, when I was co-hosting The New Music . I used to wear it with a red spandex bodysuit, but this summer I'll be throwing it over a simple little black dress instead. I also make a trip to the alterationist to have the shoulders adjusted, and I'll wear it with some big black bangles. We've paired it here with an American Apparel LBD ($45) and David Dixon shoes ($125 at Town Shoes, www.townshoes.com).
Marigold riding jacket
I used to wear this Karl Lagerfeld number with a generous black pant, but bringing it into the present involves teaming it with a black pencil skirt or skinny black pants. I may shorten the jacket a couple of inches as well, since its dramatic length looks a bit dowdy. But the black velvet collar and buttons provide the perfect touch of luxe. High black suede boots or little black suede booties would look hip. We've teamed it here with an American Apparel T-shirt ($22), French Connection pant ($89 through www.frenchconnection.com) and strappy shoes ($99.99 at Winners, www.winners.ca).
Black suede appliquéd jacket This fabulous piece by French designer Jean Claude Jitrois is part of a suit that came with a high-waisted black suede pencil skirt. The fitted jacket, appliquéd with colourful leather strips, looks great teamed with skinny black jeans. The high-waisted pants here ($77) are from American Apparel. The only trouble is this is one extremely form-fitting piece from my pre-babies days. I'll have to invest in a good alterationist to let it out a bit in the back or I'll simply wear it open. Studded stiletto sandals, $169.99 at Winners.
Leather and jersey tunic
This striking piece looks like something Stella McCartney might have designed – minus the leather, of course. Although it has a great Canadian vibe, it's a French design, circa 1986, that I got at a Yorkville boutique named Fetouns. The tunic came with double-knit jersey and leather jodhpurs, but they disappeared years ago. We've paired it with American Apparel leggings ($22) and chunky, ankle-strap sandals ($99.99 at Winners). I might also team it with my thigh-high Halston taupe suede boots and cinch the waist with a big black Michael Kors belt.
Royal blue jacket
