Style Muse Monday: Pat Benatar

I grew up as a child of the 80's.  I wore leggings, with over-sized splatter painted t-shirts, I had a collection of scrunchies and I belted out 80's rock ballads while decked out in ballet leotard.  I had a few favorite songs, but the albums that were always on constant request were by Pat Benatar.  I loved her tough chick persona and the way that she could belt out a fantastically catchy tune.  Looking back at some of the clothes that Benatar wore; the leotards, the leggings, the oversized blazers, most might seem a little dated, but they were certainly precursors to the ostentatious costumes that some pop divas wear today.  However fun her glitzy glam rock looks were I chose this photo for the outfit's simplicity and wearability.  Today's Style Muse Monday is dedicated to the rocking-est rock chick, with the killer voice and model looks, Pat Benatar.

The Inspiration

The Recreation

Treat Me Stripes: Inspired By Pat Benatar by jrosestyle featuring shiny pants

Karen Elson For Nine West Vintage America

If you have been following me for a while you know that I am a sucker for all things vintage and retro looking.  I was intrigued when I heard that model, musician and muse, Karen Elson was partnering with Nine West's Vintage America line to create a limited edition capsule collection.  While Elson has made a living wearing designer duds, her own style is decidedly vintage with a hint of goth. What would this collection look like with Elson holding the design reigns?  Well here is the answer, a little victorian, a hint of rock and roll and a little glam.  The collection consists of shoes, bags and jewelry, evocative of the victorian era;  carpet bags with skeleton key adornments, granny boots in black leather with contrast glittery sparkle sides, gold chains with key and lock charms.  I was hoping that there would be more pieces in the collection, I think the designs could be more varied, but what is there covers the scope of Nine West's usual offerings. The most successful pieces design wise are the MIDNIGHTSUN knee high laceup boot (I already own something similar) and Sorrownwoe crossbody bag.  I personally think that the price is a little high for Nine West's target consumer, with prices ranging from $32 for the jewelry to $269 for the tall lace up boot.  The entire collection is available now.

MIDNIGHTSUN Knee High Boot, $269

SORROWNWOE Crossbody Bag, $69

So what do you think of the line? Do you have a favorite item in the collection? Are you tired of design collaborations between designers or models and mainstream retailers/lines or do you want more?