Fashion has taken a major leap back to the '60s and '70s recently, with the retro silhouettes and vintage vibes seen on the spring/summer 2015 catwalks carrying through to some of the most recent shows we saw at New York and London Fashion Weeks. And with the high street currently crazy for flares, fringing and folklore details, we couldn't be more obsessed with all things reminiscent of the swinging '70s. So when designer Hedi Slimane selected Joni Mitchell as one of the faces to front his SS15 campaign for Saint Laurent, we couldn't think of a more genius- and on trend- decision. And in fact, the iconic musician has fast become our ultimate inspiration of the moment, and for so many reasons.

Even if you're not that familiar with her music, you will have definitely heard one of her songs. Remember that heart-wrenching moment in Love Actually when Emma Thompson's character cries alone in her bedroom? Joni Mitchell's 'Both Sides Now' is playing in the background. But the reason you need to acquaint yourself with her style is that it perfectly encapsulates everything we want our wardrobes to be doing this spring. From boho denim to flowing maxis, kaftan dresses and plenty of prints, Joni has always had her own distinct sense of style, and refused to let her image be changed in any way, or by anyone else.

Yep, not only is Joni Mitchell a source of sartorial inspiration, she's also basically fearless, and incredibly brave. Not only has she achieved huge success in a typically male-dominated industry, she has also battled with illness her whole life. In a recent interview with New York magazine, Joni revealed that she has battled against serious illnesses including polio and scarlet fever, and even now suffers from a rare skin disorder, Morgellons. Not that you'd ever know, seeing how amazing she looks in Saint Laurent's spring/summer campaign, modelling at the age of 71. Yes, that's 71.

So while we're off to dress ourselves in as much suede, and the biggest flares we can find, we'll be channeling Joni's no-nonsense attitude as we go. As the superstar told New York magazine, "I'm just looking for equality, not to dominate. But I want to be able to control my vision." That's some serious girl power, right there.