You either plump for unassuming, minimal reality chic, or dress up like a 1980’s power bitch. The choice is yours!

It’s definitely safe to say that fashion is always a reflection of the times. And during these hard financial times, and the economic meltdown, it couldn’t have been easy. Designing in a mist of uncertainty could only produce the outcome we have.

Many followed the same pattern of ‘looking back and not forward’. Dolce and Gabbana looked back to the 1930’s, the time of wit and wonder that resulted in the era of surrealism. But the main decade of inspiration for designers was the ‘boom-time’ of the 1980’s. It may seem strange in these times of uncertainty that an era with power suits, shoulder pads, big hair, and bad taste could somehow relate to autumn 2009. But be prepared because it’s coming your way. From the runway to the high street this season is all about serious shoulder pads, a new transformation of the legging, tiny glam mini dress’s, and Krystle Carrington cocktail wear.

Marc Jacobs summed up the appeal beautifully ‘“I was thinking about the good old days in New York, when getting dressed up was such a joy”. His designs shimmied down the runway while punk rock blared from the speakers. It was clear Jacob hearts the eighties from the very first step the first model took on the runway.

Dressed in a grey, zip-pocketed cardi, jaunty patterned neck scarf, and sporting a towering faux hawk, it was obvious this was the start to an eighties filled runway collection. How much does Marc Jacobs really love the eighties? Enough to send out 60 characteristically different looks that certainly brought back the eighties feel.

So if you love the eighties as much as Marc Jacobs, and want to recreate that ‘power look’ yourself, then I’ve got just what you need. Look on for how to steal the look straight off the runway. I won’t tell if you don’t!