2 of the hottest trends of the '80s are back in fashion

Fashion is cyclical by nature, but when we pulled out jackets with accentuated shoulders and snakeskin-printed leggings, we couldn't help but cringe as we flashed back to the '80s — to the years of scrunchies, spandex and shoulder pads.

Although many of fall's trends are reminiscent of the past, this season is all about reinventing old styles and making them contemporary.

Designers have taken two "Material Girl"-era classics — leggings and blazers — and put them together to create an uber-chic downtown style.

BLAZERS

Basic blazers are a great staple to have in your closet; they add instant chic to just about any outfit. Thrown over a tee or layered over a floral-print dress, these go-to jackets are perfect for a day or night look. Three we're seeing everywhere:

In a throwback to a look made famous by Michael Jackson, jackets with sharp shoulders and crystal accents are retro-hot.

Or slip on an oversize "boyfriend" jacket, with its more relaxed fit and masculine details — two-button fronts, notched collars and cuffed sleeves.

Hardware is in this fall. Find a jacket with built-in accessories, such as neckline chains or studded buttons, for a sophisticated edge.

The most important thing to remember about wearing a blazer is the fit. Although it is easier to get away with an ill-fitting boyfriend blazer because of the looseness of the style, a tailored blazer needs to be just that — tailored.

Long cardigans are a casual alternative to a blazer. It's a lightweight accessory long enough to cover your hips and waist when paired with leggings and perfect with a pair of dark-wash straight or skinny jeans. In an array of colors and patterns, today's cardigans are not your grandpa's sweaters.

LEGGINGS

This fall is all about legs, legs and more legs. There is no better way to show off toned legs than with a sleek pair of leggings.

The most important thing when picking out a pair is to pay attention to the fabric. Do not pass pantyhose off as leggings. Choose a quality, heavier material that will hide imperfections and will give your legs a smooth, flawless surface.

Leggings come in materials from denim to leather, so experiment to find the right pair for you. The design is in the details, too — zippers, buttons and lace are all popping up on leggings.

Not quite ready to bare all? Opt for a great pair of dark skinny denim. This allows you to feel a little more held in, while still maintaining the overall silhouette of a legging.

Tips on how to wear blazers and leggings:

Wear leggings like leggings. Even if they are leather or denim, you must still have some coverage of your waist and hips. Most boyfriend blazers will cover enough, but if opting for a shrunken blazer, be sure to pair it with a longer top.

Go for a full-length legging that comes down to your ankle. This creates a much longer line and is more flattering than cropped styles, which visually cut your leg in half.

Wear your legging-and-blazer outfit with "shooties" (cross between an ankle boot and a shoe) or boots to complete the look. Leggings are the perfect bottoms to tuck into boots because there is minimal bunching.

(c) 2009, Fort Worth Star-Telegram.