Whether or not you’ve watched season 4 of Netflix’s Stranger Things (no spoilers here, we promise), you’ve probably heard about its soundtrack, which has brought Kate Bush’s Running Up That Hill to a whole new audience. 

But it’s not just her music that is in the spotlight – Kate’s fashion, too, is getting the recognition it deserves. But how to wear leg warmers and waistcoats in 2022? We asked fashion editor and Kate Bush fangirl Catherine Hayward how to interpret her best looks, 37 years after the song of the moment was released.

‘This is my favourite look!’ explains Hayward – the ensemble featured in a poster that her brother displayed on his wall back in the day. To recreate this outfit, look to Saint Laurent, whose perennial vintage vibes really capture the essence of Bush’s wardrobe from the 1970s and ’80s – plus, the pussy-bow blouse and flares will go with so many other items in your armoury. And Western boots by Paco Rabanne at Harvey Nichols are just the thing for emulating Kate’s love for statement footwear.

The key to nailing a modern interpretation of retro fashion is in using some artistic licence, says Hayward. Seeking out like-for-like options can risk veering into costume territory, so take your inspiration from colour, shape and fabrics instead. In this case, Bush’s ruffled lace dress is reimagined with a splash of colour to draw on her iconic Wuthering Heights video, which featured her most famous look – the flouncy red gown. Who better, then, to look to for this outfit than Gucci, another champion of vintage looks? And while Bush was barefoot a lot of the time, you’ll likely need a more practical option, so try Hermès’ ‘Donia’ boots, and finish the look with a ’70s-style belt and jewellery.

‘Kate was so heavily into dance performance and often photographed in a stretchy leotard or ballet gear,’ explains Hayward, so recreating a Lycra-infused outfit was a no-brainer. And whether you’re pulling your most dramatic moves à la Babooshka or heading to barre class at KXU, we suggest you pull on Balenciaga’s pantaleggings and body for the occasion – and don’t forget your leg warmers.

Catherine Hayward is a fashion editor, consultant and creative director who has contributed to British GQ, The Sunday Times and The Independent, among many others. She has been stylist to Daniel Craig, Paapa Essiedu and Benedict Cumberbatch.