How to Get Crystal Bernard and Peter Cetera Style
When people think of late-20th-century romantic pop culture, few pairings evoke the same nostalgic warmth as actress Crystal Bernard and singer-songwriter Peter Cetera. Their iconic 1989 duet, "(I Wanna Take) Forever Tonight," captured a specific cultural moment defined by lush vocal harmonies, oversized blazers, cascading hair, and understated elegance. If you want to know how to get Crystal Bernard and Peter Cetera style, you are looking at a masterclass in transitional '80s-to-'90s soft-rock aesthetic and relaxed television chic.
Recreating this look doesn't require a time machine. Instead, it relies on understanding the core elements of their wardrobe, grooming, and effortless demeanor. Whether you are dressing for a themed event or simply want to incorporate elements of vintage romanticism into your everyday wardrobe, here is how to channel this legendary aesthetic.
Decoding the Peter Cetera Aesthetic
As the former frontman of Chicago and a legendary solo artist, Peter Cetera perfected the polished yet approachable soft-rock look. His style leans heavily on classic tailoring mixed with the relaxed silhouettes of the late 1980s.
The Signature Tailoring
Cetera is rarely seen without a well-cut blazer, but don't expect the stiff, padded-shoulder corporate power suits of the early '80s. By the late '80s, his style shifted toward softer, more fluid tailoring:
- Oversized Blazers: Choose unstructured single-breasted or double-breasted blazers in neutral tones like charcoal, navy, or soft beige.
- The T-Shirt Under the Suit: To get that effortless pop-star off-duty look, pair your blazer with a crisp, high-quality white crewneck t-shirt instead of a collared shirt and tie.
- Relaxed Trousers: Pleated, high-waisted trousers with a slight drape provide that authentic late-80s silhouette without looking costume-y.
Grooming and Hair
Peter Cetera’s hair is arguably as famous as his soaring tenor vocals. To capture his signature look:
The Hair: Aim for shoulder-length, layered locks with plenty of natural volume and soft waves. Avoid heavy crunch gel; instead, use a lightweight sea salt spray or mousse to achieve a touchable, brushed-out finish.
Facial Hair: Cetera frequently sported a meticulously groomed mustache or light stubble, anchoring his polished wardrobe with a touch of rugged masculinity.
Nailing the Crystal Bernard Look
Best known for her starring role on the hit sitcom Wings, Crystal Bernard embodied the quintessential '90s "girl next door" with a sophisticated, glamorous edge. Her style bridges the gap between casual comfort and polished red-carpet elegance.
Wardrobe Staples
Bernard’s everyday and promotional style relied on clean lines, luxurious fabrics, and silhouettes that flattered without being overly fussy.
- The Little Black Dress (LBD): A staple of 1990s television fashion, a minimalist black slip dress or a sweetheart neckline midi dress captures her television-ready elegance.
- High-Waisted Denim: For a casual day look, pair high-waisted, medium-wash straight-leg jeans with a tucked-in white button-down shirt or a fitted ribbed sweater.
- Layered Knitwear: Chunky cardigans and soft pastel turtlenecks offer that cozy, approachable warmth that defined her iconic look.
Hair and Makeup
Crystal Bernard’s beauty routine is a masterclass in classic '90s cosmetics:
The Blowout: Unlike the mega-hairsprayed styles of the mid-80s, Bernard’s hair featured soft, face-framing layers with rounded ends turned slightly inward, dried to perfection with a round brush.
Neutral Makeup: Keep your skin glowing with a satin-finish foundation, subtle peach blush, muted brown eyeshadow, and a brownish-nude or berry lipstick lined just slightly for definition.
How to Bring It All Together
If you are looking to capture the collaborative energy of their music video aesthetics, the key is balance. The Crystal Bernard and Peter Cetera style relies on the contrast between structured masculine elements and soft, romantic feminine details.
- Color Palette: Stick to a mature palette of cream, white, black, heather grey, and muted earth tones. Avoid neon brights or harsh patterns.
- Textures Matter: Incorporate tactile fabrics like silk, wool, fine-knit cotton, and supple leather to add depth to your outfits.
- The Vibe: Above all, this style is about confidence and emotional sincerity. Stand tall, keep your accessories minimal—perhaps a simple silver watch or delicate gold hoop earrings—and let the classic silhouettes speak for themselves.
By blending Peter Cetera’s tailored soft-rock ease with Crystal Bernard’s timeless '90s television chic, you can successfully recreate an unforgettable era of style that remains effortlessly cool today.
