Are You Ready For ‘80s Prom Style To Be Cool Again?

By Alison Syrett Cleary
Updated Sep 06, 2018 @ 12:15 pm
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Crazy, flashy, over-the-top ‘80s style has had a bad rap for years (ahem, "Josie Grossie" on prom night), but this season is its chance for redemption.

VIDEO: The Price of '80s Nostalgia

Designers are making a case for the decadent wardrobes reminiscent of Dynasty society ladies and Material Girl–era Madonna — and it’s perfect for your Saturday night plans. After all, a splashy night on the town is even splashier with a sequined animal print (as seen at Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello and Tom Ford), fuchsia satin ruffles (Alexander McQueen, Marc Jacobs) and showgirl sequins (Moschino).

This all is not to say classic types can’t enjoy this over-the-top trend. Consider Carolina Herrera’s elegant dotted-swiss gown (straight from Princess Diana’s playbook) and Chanel’s lacy, racy little black slip. Add a satin pink extra and as Madge would say, “That’s all right with me.”

Here, we’ve some gateway pieces to help you nail the look. If you’re feeling nervous about going all in, start with a hint of sparkle — say those rhinestone earrings — and work up to a full-on silver mini dress.

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ASOS Curve

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$60
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us.asos.com
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Michelle Mason

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$690
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revolve.com

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& Other Stories

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$215
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store.coms
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Alice + Olivia

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$295
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aliceandolivia.com

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Forever21

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$32
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Rag & Bone

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$525
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shopbop.com
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BaubleBar

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$38
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baublebar.com

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Staud

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$250
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shopbop.com

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Ganni

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$395
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ganni.com
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Mark Ellis

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$179
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farfetch.com
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By Alison Syrett Cleary