It's the '80s, Ladies

Power-dressing is back, as designers sharpen shoulders, pump out neon brights and add some excess irony

Dynasty Drama

The inspiration: Aaron Spelling's megahit series Dynasty was spoofed on runways with over-the-top, extravagant looks

How it showed up: Indiscreetly. High gloss and high drama took center stage. At Dolce & Gabbana and Louis Vuitton, exaggerated sleeves and dazzling colors came together for maximum impact. At Balenciaga and Ralph Lauren, soft fabrics and shimmery pastels spelled (slightly wild) romance

Who did it best: At Balenciaga, Nicolas Ghesquière's cascading drapes and lace bras resurrected the decade's after-5 cocktail glamour

Tough Stuff

The inspiration: The downtown club scene in New York City, with its hard-as-nails attitude and rock-'n'-roll edge

How it...

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