OK, ‘freedom day’ is behind us and life feels pretty much back to normal. But after a year of lockdowns, we’re still exercising our freedom to party like it’s 1989. Combine this with the distinct sense that festive celebrations are going to be underway by October this year, and one thing becomes abundantly clear: it’s time to dress up. Minimalists look away – this season it’s all about sequins, rhinestones, feathers, glitter, ruching… you name it, designers are putting it on their garments. Here’s our guide to the ’80s inspired pieces to invest in now.
Retrofête Gabrielle Robe
As its name suggests, Retrofête is all about vintage party pieces. A veritable explosion of sparkles, lace and ruching, its deep dive into 1970s and ’80s glamour has resonated with celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez and Gwyneth Paltrow. The Gabrielle Robe features hand-stitched sequins, a wrap bodice and voluminous blouson sleeves.
£543, retrofete.com
Christian Louboutin Loubi54 Clutch Bag
Thanks to Spandau Ballet, nothing says ‘the ‘80s’ like gold. Eminently more sophisticated than the English pop band, however, is the Loubi54 from Christian Louboutin. Its clean lines, distinctive monogram and signature flash of red make this clutch the ultimate in taste and class, even if it is dressed in gilded nappa leather.
£825, christianlouboutin.com
Lapointe Dolman Top
A high-neck, long-sleeve, relaxed-fit top all sounds rather conservative, but not if Lapointe (lover of glitter, feathers and silk) has anything to do with it. The Dolman Top is given a shimmering update with aquamarine sequins, and there’s even a matching sequin trouser.
£722, shoplapointe.com
Bottega Veneta Sequin-Embellished Shirt
This larger-than-life statement shirt, paved with glistening tonal sequins, looks like something that Axl Rose or Steven Tyler would have worn. Except, of course, it’s Bottega Veneta (available on Net-a-Porter).
£1,855, net-a-porter.com
Hushan Zhang Ginevra Top
Huishan Zhang, who recently dressed Gemma Chan for Vogue, is a master in making things that are, on paper, totally over the top (like enormous feather trims or head-to-toe sequin dresses), look pared-down, refined, even regal. The Ginevra Top is a case in point, with its balloon sleeves, crystal trim and bold rose-pink hue.
£1,450, huishanzhang.com
Commando Leggings
We’re not sure whether we’re going to an aerobics class or on a wild night out with these body-sculpting Commando leggings, but we don’t really care.
£165, net-a-porter.com
Roger Vivier Broche Vivier Buckle Pumps
These Roger Vivier pumps are giving Palace of Versailles vibes more than ‘80s party girl, but they still fit the bill: Shiny? Check. Bejewelled? Check. Totally over the top? You know it. The Broche Vivier is the perfect footwear for all of your post-pandemic soirée needs.
£1,325, rogervivier.com
Paco Rabanne Hobo Bag
The people wanted sequins, and that is exactly what Paco Rabanne gave them. A bag made entirely out of sequins, to be precise. The ironically named Hobo Bag is crafted from gold paillettes and features a metal ‘PR’ logo chain.
£890, pacorabanne.com
Read more: The best winter coats and jackets to invest in now
