Fashion

Private Icon: Dick

plaid and paisley presidential dreams.

by nylon; product research and descriptions by jamie lichay

They’re not even old enough to vote, but Betsy Jobs (Kirsten Dunst) and Arlene Lorenzo (Michelle Williams) find themselves amid a political scandal in Dick (1999).

On their way to mail a letter that will enter them into a contest to win a date with ‘70s teen idol Bobby Sherman, the blonde high scholars accidentally witness Watergate bugging, inadvertently becoming the infamous Deep Throat. The next day, the girls wander off during a class trip to the White House and wind up hired, by President Nixon himself (who’s covering his ass, of course), as “official White House dog walkers” and “Presidential youth advisors.” They even bake “special” brownies for Dick to get him to call the troops home from the Vietnam War.

But before long, the girls learn that Betsy’s apartment is tapped and Arlene’s mother’s new boyfriend is an undercover agent, so they take their secrets to The Washington Post, and Nixon is forced to resign. While they each have their own style during the movie— Arlene wears nerdy glasses, flower power frocks, and a peace sign pendant; Betsy bares her midriff (even with high-waisted pants) and often tops off her look with a patchwork slouchy hat— the final scene sees the two in halter tops and bell bottoms fashioned from an american flag, waving a banner that reads YOU SUCK, DICK!

The only swing vote on this Presidential look: PVC or polyester?

-- words from our november 2008 issue

Run the Flower Show Flat, Jeffrey Campbell, $89.99

Jeffrey Campbell puts a modern twist on a ’70s classic pattern. These on-trend flats have far-out ’70s flare.

Janis Bell Bottoms, Novella Royale, $139.00

These bell bottoms have just enough hippie with a whole lot of trendy. Perfect for walking Nixon's pup.

Betsey Johnson Mod Life Dress, Nasty Gal, $248.00

This Pucci look-alike is perfect for summer. Who said psychedelic prints should be left in the ’70s?

Silk Printed Dress in Rosewood Multi, Marc by Marc Jacobs, $247.00

We’re pretty sure Mary Tyler Moore wore an identical outfit. The collar adds class to a fun, whimsical dress.

Under the Blacklight Tights, Mod Cloth, $22.99

Add these funky tights to any getup. Because plain pantyhose is super lame.

Denim & Supply Ralph Lauren Cropped Metallic Embroidered Vest, Macy’s, $165.00

A cropped vest is the perfect accessory to finish an outfit.

Steve Madden Kona, $76.98

The higher the platform, the better. We’re loving these ‘70s inspired wooden, clog-like heels.