Neo-Retro: Fashion on Recycle and Repeat

Gabbie Perez

With the first decade of the new millennium coming to a close (although Y2K feels just like yesterday), what exactly will this decade be remembered for? My guess would be the iPod, Britney Spears’ bald head, and the War on Terror. But what will fashion have to show for the 00’s?

Having been born in the mid-80’s, I missed everything great from the 20th century… the 60s British invasion, the glam disco of the 70s, and (my most favorite decade of the century) the Reagan 80s. With fashion trends of today, I am able to relive everything that my mother – and grandmother – experienced. From the Ray-Ban revival to Sgt. Pepper’s inspired coats to 5-inch platforms to stylized flapper dresses, everything old is new again and again and again.

Amid our culture’s fascination with celebrity and obsession with information, our fashion has not evolved since the last millennium — we have put fashion on recycle and repeat. This decade has seen nothing but borrowed (albeit updated) looks and trends. I find it disheartening that my generation will not be defined by a unique and original style, like every previous generation.

So listen up Marc, Karl, and Nicolas — I have faith in you to give me something revolutionary, something never-before-seen! Give me something fresh and innovative. Give me something that will make my children say, “Man, I wish I had been alive during the 00’s!”

Double Takes:

1. Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen (both in Diane von Furstenberg) at the 2008 Met Costume Ball

2. Peggy Guggenheim in sequined Poiret dress photographed by Man Ray circa 1924

3. Jackie Kennedy circa 1962 in Oleg Cassini

4. Elizabeth Hurley in her now infamous Versace LBD circa 1994

5. Alexander McQueen Ready-to-Wear Fall 2008 (20s Art Nuevo over 70s gold spandex leggings.)

6. Balenciaga Ready-to-Wear Fall 2006 (the 80s-inspired shoulder pads and 60s-inspired raised waist detailing on the top, and the 70s-inspired platform heels — all in one ensemble!)

7. The Beatles in their Sgt. Pepper’s get-ups circa 1967