On My Radar: Highway Star

Every year when the dog days of summer roll around I start thinking about this look: super bohemian, folksy truck-stop glam, the kind of badass gypsy hippie chicks you might see on the backs of motorcycles in '70s exploitation flicks, the girl Ian Gillan of Deep Purple calls "a killing machine" in the truly rockin' song "Highway Star." The look is tough, eclectic, and romantic all at once. The imaginary girl that's inspiring me carries a knife in her boot, isn't afraid of hitching rides with strangers, and doesn't take no crap from nobody.

To create a '70s road warrior ensemble, I look for pieces that feel like they might have been collected from truck stops, flea markets, and middle-of-nowhere towns all over the U.S. A healthy dose of fringe, turquoise, and leather never hurts. Here are some of my picks:

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1.) Crystal necklace, $28, Urban Outfitters.

2.) "Fierce" party dress, $59.99, Modcloth.

3.) Reptile heart ring, $3.80, Forever 21.

4.) "Bobbie" plaid shirt, $19.80, Forever 21.

5.) Skinny braided leather belt, $24, Urban Outfitters.

6.) "Twisting Tree" ring, $6.99, Modcloth.

7.) "Uniform" suede boot, $78, Urban Outfitters.

8.) "Highway Child" feather earrings, $28, Urban Outfitters.

9.) Lace-up knee-high boots, $75.95, Minnetonka Moccasin Shop.

10.) Faux shearling vest, $79, L.L. Bean.

11.) "Wildflower Negative" dress, $54.99, Modcloth.

12.) "F7011" sunglasses, $5.80, Forever 21.

13.) Faux shearling car coat, $99.50, Lands' End.

14.) Stretch twill pant, $58, Tulle.

15.) "F5181" aviator sunglasses, $7.80, For Love 21.

16.) Turquoise bead necklace, $7.80, For Love 21.

17.) Denim trouser with belt, $24.80, Forever 21.

18.) "Cher" purple suede wedges, $99.99, Modcloth.

19.) Arrow metal cuff, $5.80, Forever 21.

20.) Suede fringe hobo bag, $78, Urban Outfitters.

21.) Spotted feather headband, $3.80, Forever 21.

22.) "Thunderbird" turquoise ring, $9.99, Urban Outfitters.

23.) Long fur trooper hat, $24.99, E4Hats.com.


Here's a little bonus for you: download Deep Purple's "Highway Star" here and get inspired.