In 1996, I was a sophomore in high school. Of course I thought I knew everything about…well, everything. Actually, that’s not entirely true. After giving it two minutes, I recalled something I didn’t understand back then and, admittedly, I still don’t understand it to this day. Of course, I’m talking about the lyrics to “Wannabe” by the Spice Girls (you know…girl power and all of that).
“If you wanna be my lover, you gotta get with my friends.” WHAT DOES THAT EVEN MEAN?
Here are a few things I do know about the Spice Girls: they’re British; Spice World (the movie) was a tie-in film to their second studio album of the same name; and impractical or not, they each had a unique sense of style.
The Spice Girls covered all of the fashion bases and truly owned their respective style and moniker. Sure, young adults took “girl power” to a different level, preparing to battle anyone who dissed their favorite spice girl (I was always torn between Posh and Ginger). The point is there was something for everyone.
But, that was the ‘90s—are platform shoes, sequined Union Jack dresses and hot pants still relevant in 2012? Fashion news site Fashionista seems to think so. According to Nora Crotty, the girl group continues to influence wearable styles in a big way. She provides some great pointers for classing up the various looks in her blog: Hold Onto Your Knickers, Girls: Our Modern Guide to Dressing Like a Spice Girl. In the meantime, I did some digging of my own to help you tweak some of these treasured looks.
- Scary Spice: If you’re like me, there is no such thing as too much leopard or cheetah print. If you’re not quite ready to wear the full-on Scary Spice animal print jumpsuit, try a more understated look with accessories. Check out these GUESS Stud Earrings from Castle Merchandising Inc. And with summer just around the corner, try some Leopard Cateye Glasses from Cruisin’ U.S.A./Bowlingshirt.com or glam it up with the Golden Leopard Tote from Tiffany Leonard & Co.
- Baby Spice: Known for her sexy, but sweet, baby doll dresses, Emma Bunton also sported the occasional tank dress similar to the Fine Jersey Racerback Tank Dress from American Apparel. And don’t forget to wear your “BABY” necklace (or feel free to personalize it with your actual name) thanks to Hampden Corporation’s Alison & Ivy™ Sterling Silver Necklace.
- Posh Spice: One of today’s hottest designers, Victoria Beckham’s clothing line is always seen on the runway. As the designated fashionista of the group, Posh modeled a variety of looks. Her infamous tube tops always stood out to me. If you’re not afraid to show some skin, wear The Wrap from AdCapitol. Can’t help you out with her signature bob.
- Ginger Spice: Everyone’s favorite redhead, Geri Halliwell is synonymous with Union Jack dresses. Why not get a little creative and go the patriotic route? Try a red/white ¾ Sleeve Contrast Raglan Tee from Heritage Sportswear. Complete the outfit with a pair of blue Ladies Poly/Spandex Shorts from TSC Apparel.
- Sporty Spice: Melanie Chisholm proves that comfort never goes out of style. To achieve her look, try the Junior Ladies Tricot Track Pant from SanMar, along with the Sheer Jersey Spaghetti Strap Tank Top from Bella + Canvas.
Do you think these Spice Girls-inspired looks would work for your customers?
Bonus Point: If you can decipher the meaning behind the Wannabe lyrics, please explain it to me in the comment section below.
