THAT ’70s SHOW

For Fall 2016, American designer Michael Kors went back in time for inspiration. TRACY LEE reports from Seoul on the must-haves from his eponymous Michael Michael Kors diffusion label.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

For Fall 2016, American designer Michael Kors went back in time for inspiration. TRACY LEE reports from Seoul on the must-haves from his eponymous Michael Michael Kors diffusion label.

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If you grew up in the ’70s like I did, you’ll recall the fabulous fearlessness of the original Charlie’s Angels – Farrah Fawcett, Jaclyn Smith and Kate Jackson. And the exuberance of Grease, starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton- John, juxtaposed with the intellectualism of the women protagonists in Woody Allen films such as Manhattan. You’ll also remember the maximalist glamour of disco greats like Donna Summer, Gloria Gaynor and Abba, tempered by the folksy wistfulness of The Carpenters. The hairdos from that era weren’t my cup of tea, but the clothes were definitely amazing! With a “City Bohemian” theme, the Michael Michael Kors Fall 2016 women’s collection revives ’70s-inspired downtown cool with a dose of modern uptown polish, combining boho chic and city slick. The new way to wear it, according to Kors, is by blurring the boundaries between office wear and evening wear. The collection is available at the new 6,957 sq ft Michael Kors flagship store, which opens this month at Mandarin Gallery. We pick our favourite pieces for channelling that Studio 54 vibe:

THE FUR TOPPER

Vests and pea coats get the warm and fuzzy treatment in neutrals like camel and black, and beautifully rich shades such as moss green and lilac.

THE LONG-SLEEVED DRESS

Polished and ladylike, it’s work-appropriate in blackand- white or moss-tweed print, sexily sophisticated in moss jacquard with shoulder cut-outs, and party-ready in a sheer black-diamond jacquard.

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DENIM JEANS

The wardrobe staple comes in cropped sailor-inspired shapes, relaxed boyfriend styles and tailored bootcuts, and in a medium fade or dark denim.

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A TOUCH OF GOLD

It’s on fabrics, coat buttons, belt hardware and bag rivets, and used liberally in the Michael Kors Fall 2016 jewellery collection. The American designer was clearly feeling the Midas touch!

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THE POMPOM FUR BEANIE

In fox and rabbit furs, and available in camel and black, this whimsical head warmer is the perfect wear-everywhere statement piece for when the temperatures dip.

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EQUESTRIAN-STYLE HANDBAGS

Hobo bags, saddle bags, feedbags and slouchy totes in leather, suede or shearling come in autumnal shades such as brick, coffee, walnut and caramel. Accented with gold-toned hardware, they ooze timeless style.

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THE SUNNIES

From aviator shades to oversized frames, these are your instant ’70s-style upgrade.

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THE TIE-NECK

On chiff on blouses and georgette dresses, tied up in a bow or left languidly undone, this adds a flirty femininity to your look.

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THE CHUNKY HEEL

Platform sandals, lace-up oxfords, ghillies and mid-calf boots are a polished yet practical way to anchor cropped pants, flared jeans and floaty frocks.