80s mix tape

Eighties may have been the most cringe-inducing decade style-wise but the coming fall winter seems to be its ad hoc mix - leg of mutton sleeves, padded shoulders, bold colour blocking, geometric graphics and XXL sweats. However, designers have put a fresh-faced spin on the decade's exaggerated style. Marni's show saw balloon-sleeved blouses, shoulder-molding cutaway capes, and stretchy ski pants, Giambattista Valli referenced the gritty '80s for his Giamba line, using the photographs of Nan Goldin, that infamous Bowery prophet, as his guide. Alessandro Michele, who's been penning a new style lexicon season after season juxtaposed puffy shoulders with the bodices from 16th-century portraits. Perhaps suiting an off-duty aristocrat. A wave of abstract geometricism was seen at Versace and Armani too. We asked stylists to give their fresh take on the offerings...

It's all about balance
Stylist Allia Al Rufai says, "The key to making it modern and today is all about balance . For day, you can dress up the 80's sweatshirts and slogan tees with fitted pencil skirts. Work those shoulder padded tops with skin fit pants for a modern take. Go with bold colour blocking all over and wear it with bold mules. Rock the 80's jacket with a pair of ripped denims (carry forward denim super strong trend for SS16 ). Athlesiure as a trend isn't going anywhere. So work those 80's sweats. You can do oversize sweats with translucent skirts don't be afraid to mix pieces."

Have fun with colour blocking
Stylist Ami Patel says, "Pair the white shirt with mutton sleeves with navy blue jeans and pumps. Work the Gucci pink suit by throwing it with a ruffled shirt. Keep that one pink or cloud block with one accessory. Go easy on sequins and don't wear top and bottom bling. For example, pair the Gucci gold sweatshirt with torn jeans and complete your look with big pop earrings. Colour blocking is super fun."