"Anarchy in the UK" was a song released by the Sex Pistols back 1977, and it was a sentiment that reflected the burgeoning punk subculture that was blossoming in Britain in the late '70s. This anarchic spirit was captured in everything from film to literature, but in the world of fashion, it was the controversial, safety-pin laden designs of Vivienne Westwood that caught the imagination of the public. Well, it seems as though history is repeating itself, as "Anarchy in the UK" could not be a more relevant sentiment for the current political and social climate—and don't fashion designers know it.
A spirit of rebellion pervaded the A/W 19 runways, with the likes of Alexander McQueen and A.W.A.K.E Mode embracing the Punk aesthetic via studs, tartan, deconstructed separates and utilitarian lace-ups. Whatever you think about the fashion industry, you can't deny that it has the power to capture the zeitgeist in a way that few other things can.
So how can you make this anarchic trend translate from the runway and into your wardrobe? As is the case with most high-fashion trends, the secret lies in incorporating the odd nod to a fabric, print or silhouette. As much as we love McQueen's frothy frock, stompy boots and studded biker getup, somehow we can't see it working for Sunday brunch.
To make things a little more digestible, I've broken down the trend into five key looks you can easily blend into your autumn capsule. The more adventurous among us can try a deconstructed blazers or distressed knit, while those wanting to merely dip a toe in can pull on a pair of chunky lace-up boots, which are both cool and practical, FYI. So no, you're not going to change the world with just a dash of tartan, but we're using it to bring a little Punk spirit to our lives this October. Scroll down to see how the fashion crowd are working the look this season.
Chunky Boots
Style Notes: This is one of the easiest ways to incorporate some punk into your personal style. These will look just as good with your summer dresses as they will with jeans and a knit at the weekend.
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Leather Everything
Style Notes: Minimalist leather might be everywhere this season, but at its heart, it's a fabric with rebellious roots. We have our eye on Dodo Bar Or's fabulous leather rendering of a classic kilt. Simply style with a chunky cream cable knit and lace-up boots.
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Distressed Separates
Style Notes: If you want to fully commit to the Punk theme, try experimenting with deconstruction. Whether it's a frayed knit (La Fetiche's Breton iteration is divine) or an exposed-lining blazer, this is a look that is certain to bring personality to any outfit.
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Tartan
Style Notes: Tartan is the fabric most associated with the punk fashion movement, and luckily, for those on a budget, is all over the high street right now. Mango, in particular, has embraced the trend with plaid cardis and checked midis.
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Stud Embellishment
Style Notes: Discard any "emo" associations from your teen years, because a little bit of studding can make a chic addition to your autumn capsule. We recommend keeping it subtle with studded accessories: Think a leather belt added to a pair of high-waisted trousers or a pair of studded boots for the weekend.
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