It’s time to think outside the mall.

Hip, new clothes are cool, but one trend is here to… It’s time to think outside the mall.

Hip, new clothes are cool, but one trend is here to stay: retro. Buying into retro fashion is a great way to express a nonconformist, chic style. A noticeably aged addition to your ensemble will keep your look fiery and flavorful.

There’s some that can pull off this look every day. I have a friend who can’t go a day without an item from the ’80s, whether it’s a logo vintage tee or even some sort of neon spandex. It’s a day of total torture for him without something from the era of Madonna’s “Material Girl” and President Ronald Reagan.

The 1980s provide excellent options for retro fashion. The style of this decade is playful and fun and has become a staple in current pop culture. Compared to the ’70s and ’90s, the ’80s are much more in fashion — currently, at least. The personality is fresher and more popular, and inspiration from the ’80s will definitely animate your retro temperament.

Retro is one style that blends surprisingly well with other looks. Certain pieces of vintage clothing can be the perfect complement to a younger, modish look. Your gems from the past will click with your latest and greatest. What’s great about blending these styles is that neither is unexciting: Both are sassy and strong and help you to develop an illustrious flair.

There are some patterns and trends that can effortlessly represent the past. Black and white stripes will immediately evoke fuzzy feelings from the ’80s. When shopping, your eye will be able to pick out patterns and colors that match the cool tackiness you are trying to achieve.

Polka dots will work well, in addition to crazy lines, strange patterns or silly designs. Solid neon colors were in and sporty on everything from sweatshirts to spandex. A splash of any of these choices will add a vintage flair to your ensemble.

In addition, there are token garments to fit your ’80s look. For the girls, jelly shorts and leg warmers are the loudest pieces of nostalgia that you can wear. Simpler elements would be tight vintage t-shirts or cute sweaters.

As for jewelry, the ’80s offer tons of great vintage accessories. There are oodles of easy-to-find, leftover pieces of jewelry. Big hoop earrings or chunky, plastic rings will polish your ’80s assembly. Also, a fun handbag or tote is an inexpensive way to look chic.

Guys have a lot of great options, too. Almost any guy can pull off a vintage T-shirt Look for fun and outdated, even random, slogans and designs. The ideal vintage T-shirt is crafted in half cotton, half polyester, to give it a silky and very thin feel. One of these gems, paired with your favorite jeans, will have you looking edgy and distinctive.

For both girls and guys, footwear is a big part of the ’80s look. Something like an old pair of comfy KangaROOS will have you kickin’ it back a few decades. Chuck Taylors were another “it” thing, and girls have a lot of fun and tacky vinyl footwear to choose from.

Another great thing about vintage clothing is the price. With any luck, you’ll have exciting “finds” at any local thrift store. This is a process that requires patience and persistence, but for some people, the secondhand scene can work wonders. Rummaging through the racks at these places is an easy way to slide into some sweet new gear, and everyone can afford to do it.

It may also be the only place you’ll be able to find retro garments, but if you can’t find that one perfect piece of vintage clothing you picture in your head, check eBay.

While all this retro fashion is exciting, it’s important not to go too over the top. Wear something you’re comfortable in. Small, vintage accents will speak for themselves.

Retro is big inspiration for fashion today. It’s a great way to look trendy and independent — a way to look both backward and forward at the same time.

Derek is dying to get his hands on a pair of MC Hammer’s infamous parachute pants. Got a pair you can lend him? Forward all donations to [email protected].