Teens’ Fall Fashion Forecast: ’80s With a Digital Edge

By Debi Martin

The Baby Boomers had their “me” generation. In fashion, it’s been the “re” generation, as in retro/recycle/reinterpret looks from the ’60s and ’70s.

This fall, fashion fast-forwards back to the 1980s, while still clinging to teens’ digital roots.

Hold on to those hoodies, skinny jeans and extra long T-shirts. You’ll still need those staples for high school hallways. But add to the mix looks that reflect the convergence of music, media and fashion that define current teen culture. Then top it with a dose of style from two decades ago.

Major retailers are trying to find that sweet spot of teen fashion with new back-to-school clothing lines and splashy advertising campaigns.  

Dress like a rock star in clothes designed by a rock star – Avril Lavigne’s Abbey Dawn.  Kohl’s is offering Lavigne’s line (Abbey Dawn was her childhood nickname), and it includes items like the pink capris pictured, $36) Create a karaoke video with songs from the 1980s – including “Don’t You Forget About Me” by the Simple Minds – at rockyourlook.com, part of JC Penney’s back-to-school campaign,

HIGH-SCHOOL STYLE SUGGESTIONS
* Purse Pressure, Jewelry Jungle: It’s All in the Details
* Some Significant Style Advice from Your Elders

which will employ music from the 1980s movie The Breakfast Club and foster an online community where shopping buddies can text one another about what’s in their virtual lockers.

On his MySpace page, Lenny Kravitz is promoting his new song “The Love Revolution,” which will soon be prominently featured in Kohl’s back-to-school ads for Levi’s jeans. Click here and scroll down for email alerts.

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