Retail Therapy

If you’ve held on to your favorite threads and accessories since college or high school, or since the last resurgence of the 1980s, you’re in luck. And for the younger crowds, jump on board in your quest to be fashionably savvy. Step on back to the decade of big hair, bold colors and clothes that make a statement. Enjoy the modern tweaks to this decade’s fashionable trends that have them 21st century ready.

From whowhatwear.com, the top seven ways to show your fashion support are as follows:

• Bright Colors: Pink is a top pick, but if that’s not your jam, there are plenty of other hues to choose from the rainbow.
• Silhouette Enhancements: From giant belts to feminine hemlines coupled with big shoulders, don’t be afraid to show some shape.
• Floral: From head to toe, apparel and accessories are blooming with these prints.
• Mix & Match: Think floral heels with worn jeans and a graphic tee with a polished jacket.
• Tulle & Opaque Fabric: This look can be taken from day to night and paired with jeans or taken up a notch with flirty heels.
• Minimalist Fashion: This trend highlights subtle details of simple pieces and helps them stand out through pleats and ruffles.
• Statement Stripes: If floral isn’t your thing, try rocking some blocky and graphic stripes to reinvigorate your wardrobe.

Local boutiques can help outfit you to master the latest styles – the ‘80s and otherwise. They offer practical choices for different lifestyles, from the woman with girls night out dates on her agenda to the working woman and to the mom who’s ballpark-bound.

Denise with Lavish Boutique in Benton says the off-the-shoulder looks cover a variety of types of clothes, from tops and dresses to rompers.

“The style isn’t going away anytime soon,” she says. “It’s going to be very big for fall, too. The great thing about the off-the-shoulder look is that it’s very flattering, can be dressed up, and depending on the style, it can be more modestly worn.”

Ruffles, pom-poms, and embroidery – also nods to the ’80s – are big trends for the summer as well, Denise says. These details are displayed in creative ways, such as on shoes, cuffs, handbags and hats.

“With festival season coming on quickly, we’re seeing a lot of bohemian flair in the details,” Denise says. “Pom-poms, beaded tassels and bonbon earrings (drop-ball earrings) have been a very big trend among accessories.”

Lavish’s go-to outfit for a special summer event would be an off-the-shoulder dress, paired with a clutch bag, tassel or bon-bon earrings, and wedge shoes.

Robert Montalvo of Montalvo Interiors and Apparel in Benton caters to women looking for practical apparel for work and life.

“Having apparel that can go from work to ballpark or another event is a plus in the busy lifestyles that we lead today,” Robert says.

Robert echoes some of the top trends mentioned above. He says bold, solid colors are a must-have. Mixing and matching these colors to create a color-block effect can lend its way to many different looks.

To be event ready, Robert goes back to a tried-and-true classic – the little black dress. “Having a good black dress in your closet is always a great idea. You will be ready for any event.”

At Urban Emage Apparel & Accessories in Benton, helping customers feel put together, yet still comfortable, is a priority according to owner Anna Williams. “There are some really fun ways to do that this summer,” she says, noting they are seeing a lot of the floral and bold print trends.

“Summer styles need to be light, fun and fashionable. We carry many styles of summer dresses, rompers, and tops that are perfect for any and every occasion.”

Bold jewelry and sunglasses should be embraced this year, Anna adds. “You can wear a basic tee, denim shorts, bright colored jewelry, your favorite pair of sunnies, and there you go, you have the perfect summer outfit.”

Jennifer Gabbard, a buyer with McClain & Co. in Benton, says she recently picked up the Steve Madden line, “which is a favorite for every age.”

Gabbard’s boutique provides style with an edge, she notes. “While we still have all the other styles we have carried, I have introduced somewhat of a more edgy look to mix it up for ladies who are feeling sassy.”

Her go-to summer outfit, depending on the occasion, would be a romper with wedges, her Jenny Bird jewelry or distressed denim with graphic tee complemented by Steve Madden shoes.