Goodbye to ”Frumpy” Madonna
In the style stakes, 2003 threw up more than a few horrors. The acid-bright mesh vests, patent mod boots and batwing sweaters were retro at its most challenging, while the passion for ruched combat trousers worn with stilettos was a real test of anyone’s fashion mettle. The new year heralds a big sigh of fashion relief. Perhaps it has something to do with the war in Iraq, global economic troubles or the SARS virus, but in something of a gloom backlash, 2004 will see a return to all things feminine, optimistic and, with just a few exceptions, wearable clothes.
SAY GOODBYE TO …
Utility chic. After a decade of wearing combat trousers, women are at long last being released from that particular form of bondage. All things military and utility are nearing the end of their shelf life and, while these trousers were undoubtedly comfortable, not even heels could make them look good. While you’re packing away the combat gear, don’t forget to include anything punk with rips, chains or studs. Aggression is out.
1960s style. All those Twiggy-esque models made mod style, complete with tunics, big round buttons and an air of innocence, a knock-out hit on the catwalk but on the high street it just didn’t seem to translate. The mini skirt won’t be disappearing just yet but the monochrome coats and patent go-go boots are over. Until next time.
Leggings. Gucci’s drainpipe trousers looked great on those with the right figure but when Kelly Osbourne wore leggings it was a good reminder of why they went out of fashion the first time. Great for dance class but a big no for public appearances.
Big-name designers. The last 12 months haven?t been easy for the larger fashion houses. Donna Karan sold up, Calvin Klein quit his label, Tom Ford resigned as creative director of Gucci and Stella McCartney and Donatella Versace both announced financial trouble. Whether this means the small independents are set to take over from the celeb-endorsed labels remains to be seen.
Pointy-toed shoes. So Sex and the City and so painful to wear. A good stiletto never goes out of fashion but this year sees a return to a rounder-toed shoe to match all the 1920s and 1950s fashions that are coming our way.
Bling. It’s guaranteed that P Diddy will still be wearing as much diamond-encrusted jewellery as he can support but for the man or woman in the street, Vegas-style pizzazz in the accessory stakes is a no-go.
Black. This year, the new black is anything but black. All those acid bright colours from last summer have made their mark so replace the goth look with a tropical beachwear style.
Silver. The space age metallic takes this year off and lets gold back into the spotlight once more.
Oriental. It would be fair to say that the oriental look never really goes away, it just takes an extended vacation. So don’t throw out your kimono dresses, cherry blossom prints or obi belts, just pack them away to live another day.
Frumpy Madonna. This is merely wishful thinking but hopefully the material girl will ditch the “serious author” look of wearing glasses and floral smocks, and return to being the provocative style chameleon we know and love.
Source: Louisa Pearson/Scotsman.com