The 90s are back....The 1890s?!!

It seems that every decade is in vogue right now, from the Jackie O sunglasses of the 70s, to the Alexis Carrington shoulder pads of the 80s to the neon high tops rocked through the early 90s, but what we didn't see coming were the 1890's! We're not complaining though because this 1890s inspiration takes the best fashion dos like pagoda puffy sleeves, corset looks but not the feel, dashing mens coats and top hats....The New York Times Style section profiled the trend in Thursday's Style section for mens wear using modern clothing/models in linotype prints. NY Times

I found some inspiration for myself, completely reflected in so much of what designers are doing right now, at the Metropolitan Museums Costume Institute. There were military inspired buttons, corsets, and puffy cascading pagoda sleeves. The twist with the modern take lies in the utility, once glamorous, wedding and evening attire is now made for day and casual encounters by losing the restraint of the corsets, swapping silks for cotton and refinement and structure for ease and wear-ability, but all the while keeping the femininity. I say, bring on the 80s, the 1880s, that is! Though the bustle is certainly not for everyone!