INSPIRATION: The high-energy punk of Germ Free Adolescents, X-Ray Spex’s 1978 debut album. Frontwoman Poly Styrene challenged the politics of boredom with her brazen (un)fashion sense. The biracial Brixton teen had opera training but deliberately wailed out the provocative lyrics of self-written songs about plastic consumer culture. Her style went beyond the image-conscious punk uniform of fishnets and safety pins; she wore thick braces on her teeth and always embraced DIY unconventionality.
Styrene, a former fashion designer who sold customized clothing at Chelsea’s Beaufort Market, wore surplus gear, carried a schoolbus-shaped lunchbox-cum-purse and adored Day-Glo. Ushanka, $20. AAA Army Surplus (199 Baldwin, 416-597-9592). Scarf, $9.99. Ardene (Gerrard Square Shopping Centre, 1000 Gerrard E., 416-848-3096, x: 254). Lightning bolt, $28 and Clash pins, $30. Doll Factory by Damzels (1122 Queen E., 416-598-0509). Robyn Molnar “Heartbeat” pin, $16. The Rage (13 Kensington, 416-588-5177).
Styrene considers “size 14 ladies of the Hollywood Golden Age” (like Marilyn Monroe) her style icons. Beth Ditto of The Gossip — currently a spokeswoman for British plus-size fashion chain Evans — has repeatedly acknowledged Styrene as an influence. Bettie Page dress with red belt, $160. Doll Factory by Damzels (1122 Queen E., 416-598-0509). Pink belt, $11.99. Ardene (Gerrard Square Shopping Centre, 1000 Gerrard E., 416-848-3096, x: 254).
In a 1978 NME interview, Styrene declared, “You know, I said that I wasn’t a sex symbol and that if anybody tried to make me one, I’d shave my head tomorrow.” Preceding a concert at Victoria Park, she chopped off her ’fro in Johnny Rotten’s flat. Brittny’s Fan Pik, $4.99. New Shiny Beauty Supply (Gerrard Square Shopping Centre, 416-462-9571). WAHL All in One Rechargeable Pro Groomer, $27.97. Zellers (Gerrard Square Shopping Centre, 416-466-2103).