The 1980s Singer Who Is So on Trend for Now

Of all the S/S 17 fashion trends, the 1980s comeback is at the top of the list. The thought of filling closets with '80s classics could be enough to make you quiver in your Isabel Marant boots, but there are two bits of good news to ease your worried minds. First, designers have streamlined and toned down the idea for real life. We promise you won't be a hot mess of hair spray, blue eye shadow, shoulder pads, lamé, and giant bows; instead, you'll most likely opt for a one-shouldered blouse with door-knocker earrings and your regular jeans. Second, once you start doing a little research, more and more approachable '80s looks pop up, many of which still feel relevant today. In fact, Pinterest has seen an 87% increase in '80s fashion pins, which says something.

My number one discovery when it comes to '80s style? Sade. As in the "Smooth Operator" singer my parents would listen to on repeat. As in the coolest, most understated and underappreciated style star of that decade. Sade (real name Helen Folasade Adu, OBE) had a fashion sense that was as alluring as her music, and it revolved around plain pieces like backless bodies, ever-present gold hoop earrings, black ballet pumps, and treggings. Even her hair was elegant, and after trawling through archive images, we're certain you'll agree that her elegant '80s getups feel 100% current. So if you're looking for a chic way to do the '80s trend (and a new icon to reference in conversation), keep reading.

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

Style Notes: You could easily think this bodysuit and high-waisted trouser combination was only just photographed.

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(Image credit: Rex Features)

Style Notes: A flash of stomach always looks most sophisticated when looser-fit clothes are in play.

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

Style Notes: We could totally imagine Bella Hadid in this off-the-shoulder sweaterdress.

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

Style Notes: Even in a more flamboyant outfit, Sade still keeps things simple.

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

Style Notes: Did you get the backless top–and-earrings memo? It's a good one.

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

Style Notes: Red lipstick, a belt, and ballet flats instantly up the ante of a basic shirt-and-trouser pairing.

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(Image credit: Rex Features)

Style Notes: The key takeaway? Invest in your favorite accessories and wear them with everything.

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(Image credit: Rex Features)

Style Notes: Even her off-duty vibe was cool. This oversize leather jacket–and–ski pant formula is genius.

Shop Sade's Style

Hannah Almassi
Editor in Chief

Hannah Almassi is the editor in chief of Who What Wear UK. Hannah has been part of the the Who What Wear brand since 2015, when she was headhunted to launch the UK sister site and social channels, implement a localised content strategy and build out the editorial team. She joined following a seven-year tenure at Grazia magazine, where she led front-of-book news, fashion features and shopping specials as fashion news and features editor. With experience in both print and digital across fashion and beauty, Hannah has over 16 years in the field as a journalist, editor, content strategist and brand consultant. Hannah has interviewed industry heavyweights such as designers including Marc Jacobs and Jonathan Anderson through to arbiters of taste including Katie Grand and Anna Dello Russo. A skilled moderator and lecturer specialising in the shift to digital media and e-commerce, Hannah’s opinion and work has been sought by the likes of CNBC, BBC, The Sunday Times Style, The Times, The Telegraph and MatchesFashion.com, among many others. Hannah is often called upon for her take on trends, becoming known as a person with their finger of the pulse of what’s happening in the fashion space for stylish Brits.

Hannah currently resides in Eastbourne with her photographer husband, incredibly busy son and highly Instagrammable cat.