LOOK – EIGHTIES REDEFINED

Ironically, designers have been inspired by the decade remembered mostly for fashion flubs. Stone washed jeans and ripped sweatshirts take a back seat as the ’80s are given a twist of 21st century style. Concentrate on the overall silhouette, teaming lean bottoms and pencil skirts with oversize tops. Go for all the zips, chains and buckles you can find. Subtle androgyny, introduced by waistcoats and striped shirts, is another ’80s influenced trend and is easy to pull off.

How to: The spirit of the ’80s heralds the return of the rising hemline. Metal detailing like rivets and studs, with a refined touch, further recreates the mood. In contrast, the high glamour of form fitting corset dresses reinterpret the contour clinging jersey mini dresses that typified the era. Layer skirts and dresses over tights. Get footloose in a pair of PVC pumps. Thigh high boots with sparse metal work are a funky alternative to tights. A pleated mini skirt coupled with a sporty hoodie will compliment your sky high boots. Whether exposed or not, shoulders beg for attention. Try a pair of narrow, zippered paisley trousers paired with a cotton knit, off-shoulder blouse. Or wear a long sleeved striped shirt, with slightly puffy shoulders over skin tight, tapered jeans. Finish the look with ankle length boots. For a more formal do, pair a sari with JJ Valaya’s leather, long sleeved blouses. Make-up should be bold and daring. Large bags or ones with lots of metal details are ideal. Accessorising with a long chain link necklace and metallic clasp bag, is the subtle way to get on the heavy metal bandwagon.

When to: Anamika Khanna’s churi pants with block printed gaiters matched with a large cardigan is ideal for an art-shopping spree. Mini dresses in chunky knits and sequined hems worn with leggings can make your evening complete. Leave the ’80s perms at home and go for soft waves instead – they never go out of style.

Collections: Rocky S, Rahul Khanna and Rohit Gandhi, Mango, Versace, Gucci.

Go for it: Katrina Kaif, Sharon Prabhakar, Aparna Chandra.