Of the many things recently-deceased former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher is to be remembered for, her sense of style is not likely to be up there. And that's a shame. In the context of her political achievements, a crisp pearl necklace might seem trivial, but as a figurehead judged fiercely on her appearance throughout her time in power, the fashion rules she held tight warrant some note.
From the early stages of her political career through her final days in 10 Downing Street, Mrs. T retained a poised, matronly and very middle-class aesthetic that was key both to her appeal and, some would say, her intimidation factor. Her boxy Marks & Spencer-esque twinsets may have changed, but her accessories didn't — and her love of big hair, big lapels, and big, glossy pearl earrings became semiotic hallmarks, however anti-fashion they arguably were. She was never one to turn down the chance to wear a bold, printed polyester blouse with a flouncy bow at the neckline either, that's for sure.
Big Hair
Perhaps the most immediately recognizable Thatcher style trope, hers was a blowout seemingly crafted from iron just as strong as the rest of her.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Big Jewelry
Oysters may have disliked her almost as much as the miners — rarely was Thatcher spotted without her pearls.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Big Pussy-Bows
Thatcher liked a busy neckline.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
Big Shoulders
A sign of the power-suited times, sure, but also a clear indication she'd be comfortable carrying her country's problems on her shoulderpads.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
Big Hats
Only for the appropriately over-formal outdoor occasions, of course.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
Big Prints
Simultaneously bold and mumsy designs; '80s librarian realness.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
Also, Some Bonus Big Guide Dogs
Not a trend at all, just a nice photo to finish on.
35.
