The '80s rocker look returns

Kids might not rock out to Duran Duran or Pat Benatar anymore, but they're definitely rockin' the '80s look this fall.

The styles dominating back-to-school fashion include looks you'd see on MTV in the early days. Sort of a refined punk rock style.

Hot items include: skinny jeans, vests, distressed denim, layers, ankle boots, flat gym shoes, long scarves and cropped jackets.

Last year's hoodies and graphic print T-shirts remain key staples for the start of the school year, which is good news for those lacking big back-to-school clothing budgets.

The most popular new accessory? The fedora. The hip lids were spotted all over Lollapalooza on both men and women. They're also being worn by celebrities ranging from Lindsay Lohan to Brad Pitt. Actually, any hat is cool these days, including knit caps and tweed newsboy hats.

One problem: You can't wear hats in class.

The trendy new items are available at Carson Pirie Scott, TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Kohl's and Old Navy stores.

The boxing look

The sporty new clothing line, XXIV VII (24/7, for those who don't do Roman numerals), is starting to pop up in Chicago area boutiques. The company's run by a Northwest side native who fancies the boxing look. Check out her stuff at xxivvii.com.

For green brides

Starting next month, Macy's Bridal will carry the Adele Wechsler Eco Couture Collection. Her gowns are made with certified organic fabrics - including hemp and silk blends, vegetable-dyed silks and the use of recycled fabrics and lace - and are produced with Fair Trade Labor in Toronto, Canada.

The gowns range in price from $1,995 to $3,500.

Wechsler will be at Macy's Bridal on State Street Sept. 12-13 for a trunk show and in-store consultation with Chicago brides.

Sorry, Kelly

Kelly Kohnen of Chicago is one of the five finalists in the Mario Make Me Model competition. Her name was misspelled last week.