I’m 20. Closer in age to 13-year-old Lourdes, but more into Madonna, who at 51 is nearly the same age as my mom. I grew up listening to Madonna’s music, I admire her style — and when I first heard about her new clothing line, Material Girl, I was excited. Where else can young people get clothes for less than $40 that blend a retro feel with a very modern attitude? Many of the looks, as you can see, are ripped straight out of Madonna’s ’80s scrapbook, but you can notice Lourdes’ influence, too — especially in the bandeau tops and black-and-white stripes (one of her most-worn patterns). I tried on some of the looks myself to see whether they’ll be a pop hit — or a total flop. Here’s my verdict.
All clothes available exclusively at Macy’s starting Aug. 3.
PHOTOS: TESTING OUT MATERIAL GIRL FASHIONS
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TAYLOR MOMSEN’S MATERIAL GIRL PHOTO SHOOT
BEHIND MADONNA & LOURDES’ LINE
PAGE SIX: MADONNA GETS READY FOR THE MATERIAL GIRL LAUNCH
LITTLE STAR
Back in her “Desperately Seeking Susan” period in 1985, Madonna wore super-size headbands and floral leggings — almost identical to this print number by Material Girl. The look gets an update with this oversize blazer lined with a skull print (one of Lourdes’ favorite patterns). It’s a fun look that works for back to school or out to dinner. It’s a little conservative, though.
LUCKY STAR RATING ***
* Black 3-pocket blazer w/ skull sleeve detail, $34
* Black and grey rose legging, $20
* Faux black snakeskin flats, $19.95
* Drop cross earrings, $14
* Pink pearl and black intertwined bracelet, $20
* Silver pearl bracelet, $20
* Rhinestone encrusted bracelet, $20
WHO’S THAT GIRL?
The red-bow pattern of this dress is sweet, but the back opens up, held together only by lacing to reveal skin — not exactly like a virgin! Tweens can tone down the look with a leather jean jacket. They should probably hold off on the matching red suede pumps, though. It’s a tough act balancing in Material Girl’s range of surprisingly high platform heels.
LUCKY STAR RATING ****
* ¾-sleeve black-and-white polka-dot mini dress w/ red bow detail, $28
* Black jean jacket w/ faux leather patches w/ silver stud detail, $68
* Wing earrings w/ rhinestones, $14
EXPRESS YOURSELF
“Dare to bare your belly!” proclaims Lourdes on her Material Girl blog (blog.materialgirlcollection.com) — and there’s nothing “Borderline” about this black-and-white-striped sequin cropped tank. It looks great with these silver metallic leggings. Younger kids may not be ready to get into the groove and show quite this much skin, but at my age, it’s a hit.
LUCKY STAR RATING *****
* Black-and-white striped sequin cropped tank, $20
* Distressed metallic leggings, $20
* Faux black snakeskin flats, $19.95
* Black bow headband, $14
CAUSING A COMMOTION
It’s the ultimate Madonna get-up: black lace, heavy necklaces, a black floppy-bow headband and a tulle tutu. I’m not a fan of religious bling, so I felt awkward wearing the cross (even though she’s now a Kabbalah follower, Madonna’s still doing the Catholic thing), but overall this look is fun and funky. Sure, the whole outfit is an early ‘80s throwback, but none of my friends were born by then, so who will know?
LUCKY STAR RATING ***
* Black with red heart tube, $5
* Black tulle skirt, $22
* Black lace zip-up short sleeve jacket, $24
* Silver-and-black long necklace w/ flowers and rhinestones, $20