Jean-Paul Gaultier's version of the new black Black's back. This season, designers have returned to the decade of conspicuous consumption to add an element of funk without the full impact of hard-edged punk. Rivets are everywhere. Not even dresses, like Clements Ribeiro's one-shoulder version have escaped a good riveting, or grommet, or metal eyelet. Bat-wing sleeves are more restrained this time around and boots more ladylike, with pointy toes and spindly heels.
Fishnets are back and, admittedly, they have changed little in the past two decades.
But this season we are teaming them with fuller or longer skirts to create a look that speaks more dash than trash. Textured and patterned hosiery also provides a more demure alternative. Belts resemble the kind a heavyweight dons after a title fight. But all in all, we are seeing the more acceptable face of 1980s fashion. Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent was one of the first to do it in Paris last year.