London: Luar’s recent runway show revives the bold and vibrant aesthetics of the 1980s, blending retro glamour with contemporary elements. Featuring dramatic makeup, punk-inspired hairstyles, and intricate nail designs, the collection exemplifies a return to flamboyant styles in today’s fashion landscape.
The recent fall/winter 2025 show by Luar has marked a notable resurgence of vintage-inspired fashion, specifically the vibrant and exuberant aesthetics of the 1980s. This collection not only celebrates the boldness emblematic of the era but also intertwines it with contemporary sensibilities, making a significant statement in today’s fast-paced fashion landscape.
Located at a high-profile venue, the runway showcased a meticulously crafted beauty look drawing inspiration from iconic figures such as Claudia Schiffer for Guess Jeans and Naomi Campbell for Versace. The creative direction aimed to amalgamate the glamour of the decade with an underground club vibe, especially resonant with drag culture. Speaking about this hybrid approach, makeup artist Terry Barber emphasised the desire for a raw edge, stating, “We didn’t want it to look too clean, we wanted it to have an edge, kind of like she did her makeup in a taxi on the way to the club.” Barber’s vision was a deliberate celebration of boldness, encouraging individual expression despite varying tastes or opinions.
To create this striking look, Barber applied MAC Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 Foundation for a flawless complexion and crafted smokey eyes using MAC Eyeshadows in Gesso, Scene, and Print, along with MAC Eye Kohl Pencil in Feline for a dramatic finish. This meticulous approach to makeup underscores how brands like Luar are reviving the opulence of past trends while injecting them with a contemporary twist.
Hairstyling also embraced the 1980s ethos, with celebrity hairstylist Jawara reimagining traditional punk elements. His distinctive interpretation of the mullet featured a backcombed style complemented by messy front pieces and a refined chignon at the back. Utilizing TRESemmé products, Jawara meticulously created a polished yet edgy look, incorporating curled and teased extensions for added volume and texture. Some models further showcased slicked-back buns and cornrow braids, highlighting the diverse facets of 80s hairstyles.
The nails added to the nostalgic aesthetic, featuring intricate designs created by nail artist Naomi Yasuda. Her work included elements such as feathers, pearls, crystals, and zebra prints, all of which captured the flamboyant spirit characteristic of the decade. As the fashion world witnesses a departure from the minimalist trends of recent years, this shift towards bold beauty signifies a growing appreciation for the striking styles that defined prior generations.
Luar’s latest show thus not only celebrated the audacious characteristics of the 1980s but also underscored how timeless brands can effectively reinterpret vintage trends to remain relevant in today’s fashion environment. The collection serves as a testament to the cyclical nature of fashion—demonstrating that sometimes, to innovate, it is essential to look back.
Source: Noah Wire Services
