THE CONSUMER: Only Some of the ‘80s Are Back

But like every era in fashion, no matter how ill-fitting and fluorescent-hued, the '80s had their high points. For example, the smoky eye—flattering on every face shape and easy to apply. Brooke Shields ushered in the designer jean, arguably the birth of contemporary denim dominance. The colorful cotton polo became an American icon. Fitted men's suits turned forever unisex. And layering is still a staple of the style savvy. Where would we be without the sporty zip-up jacket? Without the silk cami? Everyone should have at least one cable-knit tennis sweater, in case of emergency.

And though the fashion rags insist that '80s styles are once again at the forefront, they've forgotten only a few of us had the foresight to avoid feathering our bangs or sporting the occasional puff-paint T-shirt and tiered, acid washed miniskirt. The current sleek and understated adaptations of black leggings, equestrian-inspired belts, sweater dresses and slouchy leather boots are a far cry from genuine '80s aesthetics. In the Reagan era, real fashionistas wore colorful Coogi sweaters with red stirrup pants and weathered Keds. Remember?

Well, some of us do. But an idealized notion of fashion is nothing new. When we think of the '50s, we envision the poof dress perfectly proportioned, lips in coral, coifs invisibly pinned in place. The '60s evoke the hippie bohemian; naturally sun-streaked hair and handmade accessories. The '70s are a vision of the stacked-heel seductress. In 10 years we'll forget that the '90s were less Calvin Klein's monochrome silhouettes and more silver vinyl skirts, flannel shirts and chunky boots. A bare midriff and shredded jeans? Now that's fashion.

Jennifer Henry made all of these fashion faux pas and many more. Contact her at
[email protected].