80s fashion essay

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1980s Fashion: Styles, Trends & History

1980s fashion can be commended for its creativity. Some fashion designers abandoned history, some borrowed from it, while others tried to design the future. Designers abandoned all convention — and their creations were interesting to say the least.

The early 80s were somewhat subdued in color, where we see a lot browns and tans and oranges. Blocky shapes were everywhere and dressing like a tennis player was the cool thing to do.

Velour was hot and velvet was even hotter. For both men and women, the waistline was a little high.

But let’s face it, early 1980s fashion was very similar to the late 1970s. In 1983 there was a slight 1950s-style throwback, especially in women’s dresses.

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Bright colored accessories like sunglasses, bangles and hoop earrings were a necessity. Teased hair, loud makeup and neon were an important part of this style. This style was obviously more popular with the younger crowd.

But that didn’t mean “regular” women in the 1980s couldn’t have fun. It was an exceptionally flexible time when a woman could wear skin-tight cotton stirrup pants with leggings and a giant turtleneck sweater one day — and parachute pants with a small v-neck top and a high-waist belt the next.

By the late 80s, Nike had grown into one of the most profitable clothing companies in the world. Like Coke vs. Pepsi, Reebok vs. Nike was the athletic wear battle of the decade. With the help of Michael Jordan, Nike won the war. In 1988, every kid had to have a pair of Air Jordans and a Chicago Bulls baseball cap.

If you ever hear someone talk about “Cosby sweaters”, they are referring to sweaters that were most popular in 1989. By then, women’s clothing had gotten considerably more baggy as women clamored for styles that hearkened back to a more conservative time.

The best example of late-1980s for boys is Zack Morris (Mark-Paul Gosselaar) from Saved by the Bell. One look at a 1989 catalog feels like a glimpse into the troublemaking teen’s bedroom floor.

In-Depth 1980s Fashion Profiles

1980s fashion: women & girls », 1980s fashion: men & boys », nike air jordan shoes: history & pictures (1985-1999) », giorgio armani: fashion designer facts & history », laura ashley: fashion designer facts & history », fashion in 1980.

Women’s clothing in 1980 ran the gamut from conservative to opulent fantasy. Many designers reached back in history for inspiration. The looked to the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the Victorian era and even the Peruvian Indians for something “new.” A few avant-garde designers took their cues from futurism and designed clothes that looked like uniforms for space travel.

1980 witnessed a revival of the classic “preppie” look that began in New England prep schools in the 40s and 50s.

China saw its first American fashion show in 1980, when Halston presented his large collection. Chinese reactions ranged from polite admiration to outright dismay.

Designers did what they could to try to please women. They opted for choice. Hemlines bounced up and down and there was no prescribed length — day or night. Shapes ranged from slim to extremely full and blousons returned.

Velvet was popular around the clock and women wore lace with tweeds and leather. Clothes could be made of any color, with emphasis on blocks and asymmetrical bands of two or more colors.

Men’s dressing styles changed very little in 1980. One noticeable development for men’s fashion was that it was becoming more acceptable for men to wear sport coats and slacks to events that previously required a suit.

Fashion in 1981

The rule in 1981 was a lack of rules. Hemline length was now completely up to the wearer’s preferences. Some women wanted short, some wanted long, but most ended up somewhere in the middle.

Designers got extremely inventive with pants. Armani, Valentino and other introduced creative shapes like balloon pants, breeches, Bermuda shorts and styles that were puffy around the hips and taped around the ankles.

These styles were more popular in Europe than in the U.S., where women continued their support of culottes. These culottes were varied in design, with some resembling skirts, while others looked like pants.

Rising prices led to the rise in appeal to multi-purpose clothing. People wanted to wear their work pants around the house and vice versa.

Gold, copper, brass and other metals appeared on blouses and skirts. Accessories such as handbags, shoes and belts sparkled. Leather was also quite popular in 1981, with new processes making some leather as soft as silk.

Fashion in 1982

Fashion, traditionally the province of rich and leisured women, subtly changed its focus in 1982. The most successful styles were moderately subdued, in durable fabrics that required little upkeep and in quiet, basic colors.

There were two main reasons for this development. 1.) The worldwide recession put extravagant clothes out of reach for a good portion of the population and 2.) a growing number of women continued to join the workforce.

With more women moving in executive roles in the workplace, the demand for business suits increased.

Perry Ellis, then one of the “rising stars” of fashion, was successful with his near-ankle lengths. Bill Blass and Adolfo — favorites of Nancy Reagan — kept their hemlines around the knee. Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren both favored calf-length clothes.

In 1982, sportswear is adapting well to everyday contemporary needs.

Donna Karan and Louis Dell’Olio are inducted into the Coty Hall of Fame. Feathers replaced beads and sequins as the latest extravagance.

Fashion in 1983

Japanese designers dominated the fashion world in 1983. Featuring the likes of Yohji Yamamoto, Kansai, Rei Kawakubo and Mitsuhiro Matsuda — unknowns in the western world up to that point — the formless, dark elegant styles influenced designers around the globe.

The new style was innovative in its approach. Clothes were cut so full that there was no need for sizes. One size for everyone. There was no attempt to define a figure and their colors were more subdued. This loose-fitting philosophy encroached in all types of clothing, including American sportswear, which had became noticeably less form-fitting.

Resort clothing, also known as summerwear, was quite popular in 1983. Light-colored slacks and Hawaiian shirts were a common leisure outfit.

Basketball shoes and athletic-licensed apparel was extremely popular. Everywhere you looked you saw at least one person wearing a t-shirt emblazoned with the emblem of their favorite team. Nike was preparing to make its move as a major player in the fashion industry.

T-shirts were probably the most popular casual piece of clothing in 1983. Sleeves were short, the fabric was typically a super-thin, cotton-poly blend and the shirts were tight-fitting (but getting a little bigger) Many t-shirts had funny or crude sayings on them. The decrease in the cost of clothing manufacturing meant that there were more t-shirt designs available than ever before.

Denim jeans were hugely popular and corduroy also enjoyed some success. Popular pants manufacturers included Lee, Levi’s, Wrangler, among many others.

Fashion in 1984

In 1984, women’s fashion was dominated by what was at the time known as menswear. A typical outfit would consist of a sports jacket, trousers and a big overcoat. Many woman completed the look by cutting their hair short. It was bold, risky, and very much in style.

Giorgio Armani could be called the father of this new look, as his Fall 1984 collection ushered it into the public eye. It was such a good year for Armani he won the Golden Eye Award from the international fashion press. The boyish look wasn’t just in Italy however, it was showing up in French and British catalogs as well.

The masculine look was adopted by all the major American manufacturers as well. The menswear concept offered a clean, simple way for women to wear the same clothes in their professional lives as their personal ones.

Separates were very important. A sweater could be swapped for a blouse; jackets could be worn with skirts or pants and large overcoats could on top of anything.

Of course, a counter-trend developed. Some women rejected the new look and instead opted for very tight clothing that left little to the imagination.

By the fall of 1984, searing hot colors like pink, chartreuse and citron yellow began to appear in dresses, suits and coats.

London, which had dominated the youth movement in the 1960s, was staging a comeback. Zandra Rhodes, Jean Muir, Katharine Hamnett, Body Map and Jasper Conran were showing up in American stores alongside fashions from Paris and Milan. London was back.

Adrienne Vittadini won the award for women’s fashion while Andrew Fezza won the men’s category. Special awards were given to M & J Savitt for jewelry.

Fashion in 1985

Fashion in 1985 was so wide-ranging it’s almost impossible to cover it all in a few paragraphs. To boil it down to its essence, the fashion world had four major hubs: Paris, Milan, London and New York City. The style you liked dictated which city you were buying your designs from. All four were quite different from each other. The only real constant was a wide shoulder. Everything else, color, fabric, cut, was fair game.

In Paris, the top designers were Yves Saint Laurent, Karl Lagerfeld (Chanel), Hubert de Givenchy and Emanuel Ungaro. Italy featured top designers Valentino and Giorgio Armani. The top American designers in 1985 were Geoffrey Beene and James Galanos. Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and Anne Klein set the tone for sportswear, simplifying their styles to achieve a more modern look. London was proud of successful newcomers Betty Jackson and Sheridan Barnett.

But possibly the most successful newcomer in 1985 was Anne Klein & Co.’s Donna Karan. After surprisingly leaving Anne Klein to go out on her own, Karan’s clothing line was a smash hit. Her clothes perfected the art of feminine sophistication in casual form. One prime example is her method of tying a sarong skirt around narrow pants.

Also notable, 1985 saw the end of the Coty American Fashion Critics’ Awards, which for 43 years had celebrated the industry’s most promising and successful designers.

It was around this time that fashion was starting to splinter off into so many separate factions that it’s difficult to summarize. There were very many different designers who were successful in their own way. No longer was it normal for people to all dress similarly. There were dozens of trends that came and went, some stayed for several years.

The bottom line: the fashion industry was changing forever.

Fashion in 1986

The long, full wool coat emerged the fall of 1986 as everyone’s favorite fashion. It became the unifying link in a still-fragmented fashion where, increasingly, anything goes. The big coat covered long flaring skirts, skinny knee-bearing skirts, pants, bulky sweaters, shirts, blouses and even jackets.

The search was on for fresh looks. In London, newcomer Alistair Duncan Blair, whose first collection was acclaimed for its stylish, tailored look.

Romeo Gigli was the new name in Milan. Trained as an architect, he brought a simple, old-fashioned charm to sweaters and skirts. Also in Italy was Zack Carr, a former Calvin Klein assistant, who created spare, minimalist designs for Giorgio Armani and Valentino.

The most promising new designer in the U.S. was 23-year-old Marc Jacobs who released fanciful designs that ran from battle jackets in printed satin to princess dresses with petticoats.

New York sportswear designers were widely praised for the contemporary approach to fashion. The upgraded their clothes by using luxury fabrics such as cashmere and alpaca rather than by adding frills. The leading names in this category were Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Donna Karen and Perry Ellis — who died on May 30 at age 46.

Mink was the fur of choice in 1986. As women moved into better-paying professions, they were able to afford more high-end furs.

Fashion in 1987

The big news in fashion in 1987 was the resurgence of the short skirt. For some time, fashion designers had insisted that anything goes when it came to the length of hemlines. Most women had accepted this approach and some alternated long skirts with short ones. Other women concentrated on the length they preferred.

1987 Fashion: Vogue Magazine Cover (July)

When fashion collections for fall 1987 were unveiled in the spring, however, it was clear that designers were surprisingly unanimous in their support for the short hemline.

The new hemlines bared the knees and sometimes went to mid thigh. The most popular skirt lengths measured to 21 inches from the waistband to the hem. The shorter lengths were fashion choice for teenagers, but women of all ages began revealing their knees.

Although the new shorter skirts were designed for fall, women jumped the gun and began rolling up the waistbands or turning up their hemlines on their longer outfits to accommodate the new trend before the shorter fashions hit the stores.

Stores didn’t go crazy. They still offered longer skirts, but it was clear, short was in.

Fashion in 1988

The extreme femininity displayed in 1987 was a little more subdued in 1988. Colors became a but more classic and clothes were a bit slimmer, but the youthful exuberance from the previous year remained.

More than ever, women demanded variety. Last year, the short skirt was nearly the only thing available in stores. But some women weren’t comfortable showing so much leg, or others couldn’t wear short skirts at work or school due to dress codes. They needed some conservative hemlines to choose from.

In the spring of 1988, Chanel introduced a handful of suits with long, narrow, elegant skirts. The next month Donna Karan released some summer dresses with hemlines that ranged from the knee t the mid-calf.

Sales were down in 1988, with most retailers blaming either the stock market crash or the fad that was the miniskirt.

Trousers made a strong comeback in 1988, being featured in high fashion collections from Calvin Klein and Giorgio Armani.

Yves Saint Laurent was in what some considered a slump when he released what was arguably his best collection in 1988. Lacroix made bubble skirts that very popular for a moment.

Armani set the pace for soft-tailored suits. Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Louis Dell’Olio and Donna Karan all softened their look.

Geoffrey Beene celebrated his 25th year in the fashion industry. During a six-week retrospective honoring his career, his clothes were displayed on mannequins as art.

Fashion in 1989

The fashion focus in 1989 was on jackets as the staple of most women’s wardrobes. Linen, wool and silk were the fabrics of choice. Several designers wanted smaller shoulder pads. Jackets varied in almost every design: ranging from short and swingy to long enough to be worn with stretch pants.

1989 Fashion Magazine Cover

Designers once again created clothes that faithfully followed the lines of the body. Popular colors in 1989 were plums, gold and bright wines. Animal prints were also a popular choice for women.

Dresses and skirts could be any length, either stopping inches above the knee or plunging all the way to the ankles. Coats made of cloth and fake fur received a sales boost thanks to animal-rights activists who urged women not to buy the real thing.

Christian Lacroix settled down to a more standard style in 1989. He worked to establish ready-to-wear fashions to complement his flamboyant made-to-order styles.

Designers in the U.S. had a very successful year 1989. Donna Karen’s sexy interpretations of American sportswear and her DKNY collection of casual weekend clothes were a huge hit both in the U.S. and Europe.

Calvin Kline and Ralph Lauren both had very good year and were capturing more overseas business daily.

Bill Blass and Oscar de la Renta were the top evening wear designers.

In May, Dior chose Italian designer Gianfranco Ferre to design both its couture and ready-to-wear collections. Ferre replaced Marc Bohan, who had been with Dior since 1960.

Fendi, the Roman fashion house best known for the fur coats, released reversible coats that could be worn either leather side out or fur side out. The coats were made without linings.

1980s Women’s Fashion Pictures

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'80s Fashion Is Back—These Were the Most Iconic Looks at the Time

When it comes to '80s fashion , we have a (surprising) amount to be thankful for. While the decade hasn't influenced our wardrobes for a long time, in recent months, we've come to the realization that all the most current trends today are courtesy of the '80s. And if you're sitting there with a raised eyebrow, it's worth noting that at the end of last year, the trend had seen an 87% increase on Pinterest.

Now, if you're not too familiar with the nuances of this era, there are a few standout looks we're sure you'll recognize: big shoulders, white jeans,  underwear as outerwear and oversize jewelry. It was the decade of the power dresser but also of punks. It gave us Madonna, Tina Turner, and Cher, plus numerous other superstars whose sense of style influences many in 2023.

Don't believe us? From the fact that  Princess Diana's archive is inspiring some of the world's most influential designers to the more basic resurgence in women wearing blazers with jeans again, we've found 25 A-list images that prove these '80s fashion looks are as current now as they were then. Keep scrolling to click through our gallery of iconic '80s outfits.

1. Bodysuits

Style Notes: This is classic '80s Madonna, but the underwear/ bodysuit  look is bang on the money for now. You can forgo the pearls; just wear yours with some high-waisted jeans for a night out.

2. Naked Dress

Style Notes: As if we needed any more proof that Cher is the ultimate style queen, here was the star doing the naked dress before everyone was doing it at the Met Gala (and every other award show going).

3. Turtlenecks

Style Notes: Brooke Shields was America's number one sweetheart back in the '80s, and here she proves exactly why with those girl-next-door looks. Layering that checked jacket over a shirt and a turtleneck is exactly the kind of street style we saw during last fashion week.

4. See-Through Layers

Style Notes: The Jenner/Kardashian clan has already got this look down—and there are sheer dresses all over the spring runways. But the originator of this style? Another Kim. Kim Basinger.

5. Structured Shoulders

Style Notes: Okay, so the term "structured shoulders" is just another way for us to say "shoulder pads" and attempt to not freak you out, but we've seen a real trend toward this look. Shout-out to Courteney Cox for wearing this on the red carpet pre–Monica Gellar days.

6. Corset Belts

Style Notes: Avid readers of this site will know that we've already tried out this corset-type look . And while Kim Kardashian West has been a major factor as to why it's gotten popular again, we can't deny that Cyndi Lauper may have started the trend. Also: those zebra shoes.

7. Chunky Jewelry

Style Notes: Joan Collins is so incredible in this snap. Is there anything we don't love about it? Answer: No. The jacket, the simple black top, the red lippie… However, it's the gobstopper necklace our magpie eyes focus on. Joan knows the power incredible jewelry has in pulling together an outfit.

8. Checked Outerwear

Style Notes: There were so many incredible outfits we could have included from Princess Diana, but we settled on this "country casual" one. The heritage check on her jacket and matching skirt are classic attire. Not only has this Harrington-style jacket made a comeback in hipster circles, but we're also seeing plaid coats everywhere. Coincidence? We think not.

9. Showing Off Your Socks

Style Notes: Want to know the real way to update your outfit to be 2023-ready? Just add socks à la Meg Ryan. Yes. Really.

10. Tailoring

Style Notes: Grace Jones will never be anything less than fierce, but this incredible look has been seared into our minds. Who wouldn't want to look so focused in a razor-sharp piece of tailoring? (Purple makeup optional, of course.)

11. Miniskirts

Style Notes: When Kylie Minogue went through her bad-girl stage, she wore a lot of high-shine minidresses like this. Get inspired by investing in 2023's version with a great  miniskirt (they're selling out everywhere right now).

12. High-Waisted Jeans

Style Notes: We have some serious love for high-waisted jeans . Tina Turner pulls this look off with aplomb, and we have to agree: Bauble earrings and a white vest are great accessories.

13. Baggy Cropped Trousers

Style Notes: Well, how else do you expect to show off your socks? Thanks to Demi Moore for inspiring us all those years ago. 

Style Notes:  Debbie Harry has brought us many a trend. But during the '80s, we got to see her in chic little black dresses , which she accessorized a flash of low denier at most times. And in case you didn't know, that kind of hosiery is news again.

15. Bold Buttons

Style Notes:  We've seen this trend start to appear on trousers, from old-school joggers to jeans with shiny gold buttons, as well as on the classic Balmain blazers that remain forever popular. Jerry Hall's gold buttons down her nautical blazer and accessorized with gold bracelets made for the ultimate '80s power look. 

16. Off-the-Shoulder Silhouettes

Style Notes: True, Goldie Hawn didn't invent the off-the-shoulder style, but she knew how to do it right . 

17. Leggings

Style Notes: Joan Jett will never be anything less than cool. Her punk-inspired ensembles often involved oversize jackets and skintight trousers. While  leggings have definitely come on a bit since then, take inspo from this look and pair your leggings with a leather jacket this weekend.

18. Shoulder Pads

Style Notes:  Things tended to be pretty oversize during the '80s, and no other item was as exaggerated than the blazer. This is totally Balenciaga, no? 

19. Sequins

Style Notes:  When aren't sequins a great idea? As seen on Diana Ross, this look is making us wish the festive season was already here. 

20. Tassels

Style Notes:  Yes,  the '70s might have been the era for bodysuits, but with the '80s came extra bits like tassels. 

21. Vinyl jackets

Style Notes:  The vinyl coat trend has been everywhere on fashion girls. But it was in the '80s when one of the original supermodels, Cindy Crawford, made it look iconic. 

22. Graphic Tees

Style Notes:  Model Pat Cleveland knew how to make a graphic tee look chic. It's still one of our favorite outfits for the weekend.

23. Oversize Sunglasses

Style Notes: Susan Sarandon is just one of the reasons we love Alessandro Michele's oversize Gucci sunglasses.

24. Oversize Denim Jacket

Style Notes:  Before Sex and the City , SJP was already someone who liked to push the fashion boundaries. 

25. Geek-Chic Glasses

Style Notes:  Geek-chic glasses might be commonplace now, but it was during the '80s that they really took off. While we might all be into metal frames right now, we predict that colored frames, as seen here on Jane Fonda, will be making a comeback. 

Daryl Hannah's got  all the accessories a decent '80s look should have, but you'll notice time and again that gloves (especially with layered jewelry) are key for this decade.

27. Skirt Suits

Sarah Ferguson and Diana, Princess of Wales, were both particularly keen on skirt suits for their more formal events in the '80s. The look translated quickly into offices and parties, especially in this ultra-matchy form.

28. Aerobic Gear

Jane Fonda started it in the 1970s, but by the time the 1980s arrived, Spandex leggings, leotards, and legwarmers were commonplace.

29. Harem Pants

Call them MC Hammer pants or harem pants, but never forget that drop-crotch trousers (the more draped, the better) were a key look in the '80s. Here's Donna Summer doing them justice.

30. Polka Dots

Polka dots are back again, but one of the most current-looking ways they were worn in the '80s was thanks to singer  Sade and this cool shirt.

Next up:  All of the '90s Fashion Trends That Have (and Haven't) Made a Comeback

Opening Image: Getty Images

This post was originally published at an earlier date on Who What Wear UK.

Spoiler: It's not white.

By Natalie Munro

10 out of 10.

By Allyson Payer

An Alexander McQueen original.

By Eliza Huber

These are about to be everywhere.

By Anna LaPlaca

Next level.

By Grace O'Connell Joshua

Let's discuss.

This is a pressing matter.

The rest of her look is pretty chic too.

Who's your best dressed?

A style icon.

By Swarna Gowtham

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Vintage Dancer

80s Fashion – What Women Wore in the 1980s

1980s Fashion History | 1990s Fashion History

The 80s are back, both in pop culture and in women’s fashion. No matter whether you want to dress up for an ’80s-themed party, are doing research on ’80s fashion trends, or you just really like the looks from Stranger Things , we’ve got you covered. For more on what real ’80s females wore, from denim to leotards to prom dresses, read on!

Skip the history and look at these 80s outfit ideas and clothing you can buy now:

Jeans -Leggings | Jumpsuits | Vintage Dresses | Party Dresses |  Shoes  |  Tops  |  Jackets | Accessories | Workout  |  Costumes

80s Fashion Trends

What as popular fashion in the 80s? The answer depends on age, location and personal preference. There were a lot of fashion genres within 1980s fashion making it hard to pin point only one look. For the sake of these article, I will focus on everyday fashion of the typical woman.

Popular 80s fashions were:

• High waist denim jeans especially in pastel colors and acid wash finishes.
• Baggy oversize blouses with shoulder pads, hold in by a wide belt
• Ugly sweaters: loose knit sweaters wild patterns and colors
• Leggings- Colorful leggings worn under oversize tops. Add leg warmers and white high top sneakers.
• Denim jackets, leather jackets, blazer jackets layered over shirts and sweaters
• Padded shoulder dresses- metallic fabrics, Victorian lace, satin party dresses
• Flat shoes with all outfits. White or neo sneakers for sporty looks. Slouch boots for winter.
• Sweat suits, leotards, running shorts were worn all day. Add a terry cloth headband for Jazzercize class.
• Power suits for working women- Peplum skirt suits, padded dresses, silky blouses, dressy slacks and heels

1980s Jeans and Overalls

What kind of jeans were popular in the 80s?

The ’80s were the decade for designer denim, with Gloria Vanderbilt, Jordache, Calvin Klein, and Guess leading the pack. Designer jeans were especially popular with younger women, teenagers, and girls, and came in lots of colors and styles.

There were wide leg jeans, stretch pull on jeans, and colored jeans — especially pink, khaki, and white. They had a high waistline and a snug fit through the hips in the early 80s and a pleated waist and fuller hip in the mid to late 80s.

Many 80s fashion jeans were flat-front, although pleated front jeans were more trendy. These, along with yoke panel jeans and gathered “paperbag waist” jeans were typically worn by teens and mature women.

Acid wash or stonewash jeans, previously only worn by subcultures like punks, entered mainstream 1980s fashion in the middle years. The marbled effect could be found on light, dark and black washed denim jeans. 

Whitewash jeans, or jeans with an almost-white color due to heavy acid wash, were the most extreme form of acid washed jeans. The only place where dye was left on them was at the seams. Acid washed jeans are back in style now, so you can find new vintage-style jeans relatively inexpensively.

White wash jeans worn with denim jacket by L.A. Gear

Shop ’80s jeans, pants and leggings here. 

There were lots of brands and styles of jeans to choose from, but the overarching jean style of the decade for women was high-waisted, tight-fitting jeans with a straight or tapered cut. “Pegging” jeans, or folding and rolling them up to fit snugly around the ankle, was a trend with teenagers and girls.

Shop 80s jeans, blue jeans, denim pants, overalls

Another style of jeans/pants was the paper bag style, where the waist of the pants were gathered to look like the crumpled top of a paper bag. These pants have also come back into style and are easy to find.

Purple yoke pleated jeans

Jeans in the ’80s didn’t just come in different washes — they came in different colors and patterns, too. Popular colors included pink, green, and purple. Prints featured stripes, flowers, and paisley. Denim prints were typically faded and busy all over patterns. 

80s floral jeans

Besides jeans, cotton pants were made in the same cuts, colors and patterns as denim.  Sky blue, pale pink, magenta pink, bright yellow, emerald green, teal blue, purple, white and black were all iconic colors. The one popular pattern in the fall was big plaid prints.

Add to these experiments with faux leather pants, rayon slacks, corduroy, and shiny satin the 1980s offered a lot of choices.

1986 shiny cotton pants

80s Overalls

Of course, denim wasn’t just for jeans in the ’80s — denim overalls, jackets, and shirts were also fashionable and fun! ’80s overalls came in traditional blue denim, as well as in other primary or pastel colors.

Overalls were most often worn by teenagers and  young girls, but they were also worn by men, typically as functional workwear. Denim jackets were also in style, and they followed the same trends as denim jeans.

80s red denim overalls

Parachute Pants ?

Although not made of denim, another pants style that saw its rise in the ’80s was parachute pants. Slim-cut and made of nylon “windbreaker” fabric with lots of zippers, these pants were worn primarily by breakdancers before entering mainstream fashion, where they were favored by kids and teens.

These pants are sometimes confused with Hammer pants or harem pants, which are very full pants that taper at the ankles, as popularized by MC Hammer. Hammer pants were more of a ’90s trend and won’t fit well with an ’80s outfit.

Repro 80s parachute pants. Buy them here. 

Parachute pants are sometimes confused with Hammer pants or harem pants, which are very full pants made of windbreaker nylon in crazy prints or metallic fabric that taper at the ankles, as popularized by MC Hammer. Hammer pants were more of a ’90s trend and won’t fit well with an ’80s outfit . Read about 90s fashion trends here. 

Nylon harem pants, not parachute pants (early 90s)

80s Leggings

Two other pants styles worn by women in the ’80s were stirrup pants and leggings. Stirrup pants were slim pants with a stirrup, or a band of material that encircled the foot, at the bottom. Even the stirrup style is back in fashion now!

1988 stirrup leggings with big print sweatshirts

Naturally, if you weren’t wearing stirrup pants, you had to pair your oversized sweatshirt or sweater with a pair of leggings. Luckily, there is such a large selection of legging styles available now so that finding the perfect ’80s style is not difficult.

80s leggings- crazy prints and stirrup pants. Shop now.

80s Jumpsuits & Overalls

The jumpsuit, which started gaining fashion momentum with the disco movement of the ’70s, hit peak fashionability in the 1980s. Women in the ’80s could choose from a wide variety of styles, from casual to dressy. 

Young women, teenagers, and tweens liked jumpsuits because they were easy to put on and style. 

Tank-style and coverall-style jumpsuits worn with wide belts

For summer, a young woman might wear a lightweight cotton or chambray jumpsuit. 80s summer jumpsuits came in pastel blues, yellows, and pinks. Some jumpsuits were printed with floral or stripe patterns, or they had detailing such as crochet or lace appliques, gathers, or pleats. Most jumpsuits had short or elbow-length sleeves, often with a large cuff.

1986 teen jumpsuits with big belts

Coverall-style jumpsuits were also popular in the 80s. These jumpsuits had a workwear-inspired look with roomier sleeves and legs. They often incorporated hardware such as zippers, snaps, and buckles, and were made with heavier-weight fabrics — including denim. The bodice of these jumpsuits typically resembled a button-down casual or work shirt, with wide convertible collars, shirt pockets, and a boxy cut. 

1987 denim jumpsuit

’80s jumpsuits tended to be cut very full, with loose bodices and tapered legs. They cinched at the waist either by wide belt, yoke, or narrow tie. This served to emphasize the waist and create an hourglass shape.

The bottoms of the jumpsuit followed the pants trends of the ’80s and were often pleated at the waist, adding fullness at the hip. The legs tapered to a straight or slim cut at the ankle.  Starting in the mid-1980s, many jumpsuits began to have large shoulder pads. 

1987 metallic evening jumpsuit

For evening or going out, a woman had the option of a dressier jumpsuit. Some were made with draping knit fabrics, while others were made of shiny woven materials. Styles for 80s teenagers and young women tended to have bolder cuts such as V-necks or fitted bodices, and featured bright or bold colors and metallic threads.

The 80s jumpsuit fit was loose with many pleats, ruching or gathers around the padded shoulders and waist. Unlike the 70s bell bottom jumpsuit, the leg narrowed in at the ankle in the 80s. 

1986 satin jumpsuits for day or evening

For the more mature woman, a solid color jumpsuit with contrasting accents, such as buttons or a belt worn with coordinating accessories, was a nice alternative to a dress for an evening event. Long and draped or dolman style sleeves were both popular look for the dressy jumpsuit.

Shop 80s jumpsuits and overalls

In the ’80s, women were entering the workforce in greater numbers than ever before. Naturally, working women had to look the part, and they did so in menswear-inspired power suits. 

1988 power dresses with contrasting belts and trim

’80s blazers are instantly recognizable from their extended shoulders, an effect achieved by the large shoulder pads in the lining of the jackets. Vintage ’80s blazers with intact shoulder pads are not difficult to find secondhand today. Shoulder pads are also back in style now, albeit not at the sizes seen in the ’80s. A modern blazer with defined shoulders and a boxy cut can work for an ’80s-inspired look. 

1987 crop blazer and skirt set

Along with her blazer, a working woman would typically wear a coordinating pair of slacks or an A-line midi skirt. Slacks were typically high-waisted with a pleated front and straight-cut legs. 

Shops 80s blazers and suits. 

Shop 80s blazers

Power suits were typically paired with crisp cotton shirts or shiny satin blouses, often button-down. Many blouses were reminiscent of the blouses of the Victorian era and again in the 1940s with high necklines, neckline detailing (scarf, tie, bow, etc.), and voluminous sleeves.

1985 silk blouses, pleated skirt or pants. Shop 80s blouses 

If a blouse was intended to be worn without a jacket, it would often have full shoulders, high neck and cap or dolman sleeves. Some blouses even had their own shoulder pads, which could give the sharp-shoulder look on their own or enhance the shoulders of a blazer worn on top.

1988 bright blazers worn with black skirt or slacks

While most women’s blouses were solid colors, some went WILD. Animal prints, abstract art, geometrics, colorblocks, vertical styles and of course, polka dots- all bold and powerful prints for a confident professional woman.

80s blouses- classic or cool? It’s your choice!

To complete her professional look, a woman would wear a pair of coordinating pumps and, if wearing a skirt, nude pantyhose (black nylons were also worn under dress slacks). A woman would never go to work with bare legs! She would also accessorize with jewelry. Earrings and a matching necklace were a go-to style, or she could wear a scarf or tie in place of a necklace. 

1988 black slacks, belts and button down silky blouses

80s Sweaters

Sweaters were an ’80s trend everyone could (and did!) participate in. 

1987 pastel sweaters

Most sweaters for men and women had knitted patterns made of different-colored yarns. They came in patterns such as geometric shapes, stripes, Icelandic / snowflake patterns, flowers (for women), polka dots, abstract, and classic argyle. Sweater patterns could radiate from the neckline, form rows across the torso or edge of the sweater, or be spread across the whole sweater. 

80s sweaters

Sweaters also came in various knit stitch patterns; cable knit, rib knit, and other decorative stitch patterns added texture and pattern to sweaters in a more subtle way than color.

Novelty sweaters — such as Christmas sweaters and sweaters depicting animals, objects or scenery — were also worn in the ’80s. Although knitting as a craft was becoming less widespread, many books and magazines from the ’80s can still be found with patterns for these types of sweaters.

1987 glitter sweaters with metallic threads

For women, pastel sweaters in pink, yellow, blue, and coral were popular. Teens and young girls wore these colors in addition to primary and bright colors. Women wore primary colors too, but in deeper or richer tones. For a winter party, a woman could also wear a dark-colored sweater with a design in metallic yarn. This would be paired with coordinating slacks or a skirt.

1987 patterned glitter sweater with matching skirt

Did they wear cardigans in the 80s?

Women’s sweaters came in oversized pullover and cardigan styles, with pullovers being more prevalent. They could choose from crew neck, turtleneck, and V-neck styles, as well as cowl neck and off-the-shoulder styles. Shop ’80s-style sweaters here . 

Shop 80s style sweaters and sweatshirts

For 1980s teenager fashion, an oversized sweater was a must-have. These sweaters were long (some reached mid-thigh) with loose, baggy sleeves that were often pushed back. Dropped shoulders and large armholes contributed to the loose and baggy fit. An oversize patterned sweater would be paired with jeans or slim-cut pants in a coordinating color for a casual look. Many women’s sweaters were also baggy, but typically not as exaggerated as the sweaters worn by teens.

1987 oversize dolman sleeve polka dot sweater

Esprit and United Colors of Benetton were the “it” brands for juniors’ colorful, oversized sweaters in the ‘ 80s. Esprit was known for its bright colors and wild, abstract patterns, while United Colors of Benetton sweaters typically had repetitive, often intricate, patterns using multiple colors of yarn.  

Mondrian art print sweater

Another ’80s sweater style (seen on men and women) was the sweater vest. Most sweater vests were V-neck pullovers, although some cardigans styles buttoned low in the front. Like sweaters, sweater vests came in patterns and solids, as well as different textures. Argyle was a classic pattern as well as snowflakes and other wintery looks. A sweater vest over a coordinating button-down shirt was an easy everyday look for teens and women.

Shop sweater vests.

80s Shirts & Sweatshirts

For women, ’40s-style blouses with collars and/or bows or ties at the neck were popular, both for work and everyday wear. The button-down blouse was also a staple for women — these came in different colors, patterns, and sleeve and collar styles. Victorian or peasant style blouses with ruffles, eyelets, and lace were another throwback trend in the ’80s.

1981 white peasant tops

Casual shirts such as button downs, polos, T-shirts, and other knit tops came in a wide variety of patterns, including stripes of varying widths, tropical or floral prints, pop art/abstract patterns, and more.

The mid 80s say the oversize buttoned own shirt trend happen. Long shirts were pulled in by a belt loosely around the hips. They paired well with pants or leggings. To be really trendy teens flipped up the collar.

1986 oversize shirts with loose belts

Shop 80s style tops, shirts, blouses, T-shirts

Graphic T-shirts rose to prominence in the ’80s as well, sporting all kinds of messages, logos, and images. Logos such as MTV, Esprit, Coca-Cola, political slogans, TV/movie characters (Mickey Mouse, Gremlins ), and musicians (Prince, Michael Jackson, Run DMC) were quite popular. For an authentic ’80s look, look for a crew neck tee with a boxy cut and an ’80s-appropriate graphic.

Shop ’80s style shirts and blouses here .

1981 graphic t-shirts

80s Sweatshirts

The mid-’80s saw the rise of fluorescent or neon colors in knit tops and sweatshirts. Neon pink, green, and yellow appeared on clothing and accessories targeted mostly towards children, teens, and athletic clothes for women .   Colorblock pastel or primary colors were also very trendy amoung teens and girls. 

1988 colorblock sweat shirt and sweat pants outfit

Novelty sweatshirts in big oversize fit or cropped to the waistline featured cartoons, TV shows, vacation destinations (especially California), food, and popular brands for teens.  Solid color plain pastel crewneck sweatshirts were equally popular and half the cost.

In 1983 the movie Flashdance started the brief trend for the off the shoulder cut-off off sweatshirt. Its was mostly worn to the gym but some teenagers integrated them into everyday style when layered over a colorful tank top and leggings.

The baggy sweatshirt layered look. Very 80s! Shop it here.

80s Jackets / Outerwear

Women in the ’80s had lots of choices for outerwear. For fall and winter, a long coat — often with a belt and wide collar — was the standard option. These coats typically fell below the knee, which meant if the wearer had a dress on, it would be fully covered and protected. Shorter jackets were also available. Many of these were very plain and came in basic colors such as beige, black, or navy.

1981 long coat with collar and belt

For nicer occasions, a woman might also have a fur jacket or a full-length fur coat. This could be made of real or faux fur. The continuation of animal rights activism from the ’70s meant there were more and nicer faux fur options than in the past. 

1987 faux fur coats

The flip side of the fur coat was the leather jacket. While a fur coat signified sophistication and class, a leather jacket was more rebellious and edgy. Fur was traditional — leather was trendy.

Women could choose from a variety of leather jacket styles, from motorcycle jackets and leather dusters to leather blazers and tailored jackets. These styles were also available in a variety of colors, and many had detailing through hardware (snaps, zippers) and added textures through stitching or embossing.

1989 leather blazer

Denim jackets were another outerwear option for ’80s women. Denim jackets followed all of the same trends as denim jeans did, which meant they were available in acid washes, colors and prints, and different fits. They were primarily worn by girls and teens, especially in wild colors and prints.

1987 light wash denim jacket with sweater

Although the windbreaker as we know it entered fashion in the ’70s, the ’80s were when windbreakers really began to take off. They were worn by all ages and genders, and were typically made of brightly colored, often color-blocked nylon.  They could be worn with patching track pants or alone as part of a casual outfit. 

80s shell windbreaker tracksuits

Shop ’80s windbreakers and denim jackets here .

Shop 80s windbreaker jackets , denim jackets, long coats

80s Dresses

Daytime dresses.

1986 40s style shirtwaist dresses

The ’80s saw a revival of dress styles from the 1940s and 1950s. Shirtwaist dresses, a dress style that buttoned down the front, were very popular with women. The A-line skirts and cinched waists were comfortable and flattering. These dresses were often collared and could have short or long sleeves. They varied in length from just below the knee to mid-calf (tea length), and came in solids and patterns. Many ’80s dresses in this style are still relatively easy to find today at secondhand and thrift shops.

More 40s-style shirtwaists from 1986. Note the tie collar and puff sleeves on the white dress.

A woman’s shoulders and neckline were the focal point of the ’80s, so many dresses had shoulder pads or full, puffed sleeves and neckline detailing such as a bow, decorative collar, or ribbon or fabric tie. The styles were reminiscent of the 1940s’ emphasis on sleeves, shoulders, and necklines — except most ’80s styles were even bigger and fuller!

1987 pop pattern, colors big shoulder pads

Summertime brought out the classic sundress, which was usually sleeveless or short-sleeved with an A-line skirt. These dresses could have spaghetti or tie straps and were typically made of a lightweight woven polyester or polyester blend. These dresses were typically fitted at the waist with a waistband, belt, or tie. Many dresses had prints such as stripes, flowers, or polka dots.

1981 sundress, wrap dress, peasant dress

In the early ’80s, the peasant or boho style dress, a carryover from the ’70s, permeated the market. These dresses often had gathered or off-the-shoulder necklines and featured lace, ribbons, ruffles, or tiers in their design. Starting in the mid-’80s, drop-waist sailor-style dresses overtook the peasant dress for summer looks. These dresses often had a sailor collar with large bows and came in red, navy, or white with contrasting details.  

1984 nautical style dresses with bows, puffed sleeves

80s Party Dresses

Formal or party dresses for adult women followed ’80s trends more closely than casual dresses. Lace, velvet, bows, puffy sleeves, and big shoulders were all seen on ’80s formal dresses. These dresses were typically made of velvet, acetate, and taffeta, as well as polyester knits and wovens, in colors such as black, red, blue, and green.

Shop real vintage 80s dresses and new 80s style dresses

For a daytime summer event, light and airy dresses in white or pastel colors made of chiffon and/or lace were often worn. These dresses fell below the knee and, starting in the mid-’80s, came in drop-waist styles reminiscent of the ’20s. They usually had details such as a tie belt, buttons, or collars.

Shop vintage and ’80s style dresses here .

1987 formal dresses

Starting in the mid-’80s, dropped waists and flowing unfitted styles became popular. Skirt lengths in formal dresses varied from knee-length to mid-calf. Only for a very formal occasion would a woman wear a floor-length dress.  

1989 dresses with drop waist, peplum

A woman would pair her dress with either nude or black pantyhose, depending on the color and style of her dress. Coordinating heels, jewelry, and a small evening bag completed her look. 

Learn more about 80s dress styles from casual to formal. 

1988 party dresses

80s Prom Dresses

For a girl in the ’80s, prom was the pinnacle of the high school experience. Prom night was the night every girl could be a princess, and ’80s prom dresses reflected this! Shop ’80s style prom dresses here .

Prom dresses varied in length from mini (above the knee) to floor-length, and everything in between. They came in all colors, from pretty pastels to popping neons to rich jewel tones. Metallic and sequined prom dresses were also trendy. 

1989 colorful prom dresses

Prom dresses followed the main trends of the ’80s, emphasizing the shoulders and neckline and incorporating style details like big bows, ruffles, and ruching. Fabrics used included lace, velvet, satin, tulle, taffeta, lamé, and acetate.

Metallic prom dresses

Victorian or princess-style ballgowns were very popular. These had long, full skirts and fitted bodices and were trimmed with bows, ruffles, lace, ribbons, and flowers. They might have had layered or tiered skirts and puffy, voluminous sleeves. 

Many prom dresses were strapless, off-the-shoulder, or one-shoulder styles. Thin spaghetti straps were another alternative to traditional sleeves. Necklines were typically in a sweetheart or straight style.

Shop 80s prom and party dresses. So much pink!

Besides the voluminous ball gown-style skirt, girls could choose from sheath, high-low or flared skirts, and (in the mid- to late-’80s) drop-waist styles. Another alternative was the “pouf” or bubble dress, a throwback to the 1950s with a short, voluminous skirt that “bubbled” out. 

Late 80s short prom dresses with sequins.

For a less dramatic or “out there” look, a girl could choose a more bohemian-style prom dress. These dresses typically came in white, off-white, or varying shades of pastels, and often had long slim A-line skirts with ruffled hems — similar to the Victorian-style prom dresses, but with less volume. They were often made of lighter fabrics such as lace, eyelet, cotton, polyester, voile, or dotted Swiss. Trims included satin, lace, ribbon, and ruffles. 

1986 lace prom dresses

Just because she had a dress didn’t mean a girl was ready for prom. Aside from makeup and hair, she needed a pair of matching heels and pantyhose, either in nude or a color to match her dress. A girl might also wear a matching hairpiece and/or matching gloves.

Sequin prom or party dresses, Late 80s/90s

She would also wear coordinating jewelry, particularly earrings and necklaces or bracelets to match. Drop or dangle earrings worked well with the feminine look of princess or Victorian-style dresses , while hoops or large studs complemented flashier styles.

Short or choker-style pearl necklaces were a natural fit for Victorian-style gowns , and pendant or chunky metal necklaces were worn with other styles. Naturally, a girl would have to leave a wrist free for her corsage, but on her other wrist, she could wear a beaded, metal, or bangle bracelet. 

1981 prom wear. Victorian-style dress with lace on the right, boho-style dress with floral print and crocheted shawl on left.

80s Workout Clothes

The ’80s saw an increase in health consciousness, with many people engaging in various physical activities. All of this exercise meant people needed separate outfits for working out. Enter ’80s workout clothes! 

1985 velour pastel track suits

The quintessential ’80s workout outfit is the tracksuit. A tracksuit consisted of a jacket, usually full zip, with matching pants made of nylon, velour, fleece, or polyester. They typically came in solid colors or, in the case of nylon tracksuits, color blocking. Bright or neon colors were popular, particularly for younger people. 

Another popular clothing item was the leotard, worn for dance, aerobics, or the latest exercise craze, Jazzercise! Leotards for adult women were typically in solid bright colors or thin stripes, but girls and teens could choose from leotards with patterns or designs.

Naturally, no ’80s leotard would be complete without colored tights or leggings worn underneath. The outfit would be topped off with leg warmers, soft-soled exercise or ballet slippers, and a headband/sweatband. Shop ’80s style workout clothes here .

Shop 80s workout clothes

The 80s also saw the carry over of dolphin shorts from the ’70s — very short nylon shorts with an elastic waistband, contrasting trim, and rounded edges. They were worn by men, women, and teenagers, often with a T-shirt or knit top. Women and girls paired them with crop tops in the summer, and also wore them over bikinis or with bikini tops. 

Puma athletic wear with dolphin shorts

With the craze for athletic wear in full gear during the ’80s, athletic shoes were a prominent feature of the footwear market. Brands such as Nike, Adidas, Reebok, Converse, Puma, and Pony partnered with important figures in the sports world to promote their shoes. With an explosion of new options in various colors, brands, and styles, it’s fitting that the ’80s was the birthplace of the sneakerhead movement.

80s sneakers. Shop now.

For as bold and out-of-this world ’80s fashions were, the shoes were basic. Classic pumps, canvas sneakers, moccasins, wedges, penny loafers, boots, and sandals were not new inventions. These classics paired well with the latest trends while remaining neutral to the overall outfit.

1987 women’s pumps, varying heights and styles

Pumps were worn by the working woman to the office, so many came in basic colors (black, red, navy, white) with minimal decoration. Visual interest was typically added through texture (woven, snakeskin/crocodile texture, perforations) or details such as a small bow or contrasting toe cap. A basic pump for workwear would typically have a heel height between 1-½”  and 2-¼”. 

1987 pumps for evenings

Formal shoes typically had higher heels, up to 3-½ inches. If a woman couldn’t find shoes in a color to match her formal dress, she could get dyeable shoes, which were typically made with white satin that could be dyed with fabric dye. 

1981 heeled sandals

Women’s sandals were all about straps! Strappy heeled sandals were popular, with straps at the ankle and straps that criss-crossed over the vamp of the shoe. Huaraches, or shoes with a woven leather upper, were another style popular in the ’80s. These shoes were flexible and breathable, which made them perfect for casual summer fashion wear. 

1987 huarache sandals

For a lighter, more playful look, jelly sandals were a new option in the ’80s. Jelly sandals were made of PVC plastic, and typically came in transparent colors or with glitter! They were cheap, comfortable, and could get wet, which made them very popular with women and girls. The only downside was the plastic was not breathable, which meant they made your feet hot and sweaty. Gross! Most of the time, colorful socks were worn with jelly shoes. 

Pink jelly wedge shoes

For an occasion where you only have to wear them for a short while, though, jelly shoes will definitely add an authentic touch to your ’80s outfit. Shop 80s-style shoes .

80s shoes. Shop now.

For casual wear, women had lots of different flat styles to choose from. Skimmers, or what we now call ballet flats, were worn everywhere by women and girls in the ’80s due to the athletic wear craze. Other dance style shoes were popular as well, especially Capezio brand shoes. 

1987 metallic ballet flats

Loafers, moccasins, and boat shoes were worn by both men and women, giving a preppier look to casual outfits. Saddle shoes also came back into style, but were primarily worn by women and girls and basically disappeared from fashion by the end of the decade. I adored my Minnetonka moccasins. 

1987 women’s slip-on moccasin in primary and pastel colors

Canvas shoes

1987 canvas shoes

On the more casual side of athletic shoes were canvas shoes. Keds and Converse were two of the most popular brands — Keds for women and girls and Converse for all ages and genders.

Kids’ Converse shoes with fold-down high tops

The popularity of Keds was spurred on by the brand’s appearance in hit movies and TV shows of the era, including Full House and Flashdance . Another shoe heavily featured in pop culture, Converse’s Chuck Taylor All Stars had a cool but classic feel that made them irreplaceable to kids and teens. 

Converse shoe ad

Shop 80s style shoes and see more pictures of 1980s shoes.

Boots in the ’80s varied in style from booties to Western to Victorian. Booties were short boots, like ankle boots, that typically had flat soles. Western boots in leather and suede were available for men and women in different heights, colors, and embroidery styles. Victorian-style boots laced up and had a short heel. Also known as granny boots, these were primarily worn by young women and teenagers. Most boots were made of leather, suede, or urethane and could be flat or have heels.

Shop 80s boots and all retro style boots. 

An essential part of the ’80s wardrobe, socks could not be overlooked when choosing footwear. Slouch or scrunch socks, loose socks that bunched around the ankles, were a huge trend in the ’80s, particularly with teens and girls, although they were also worn by women with aerobic or workout outfits. If you were super trendy in the ’80s, you wore your slouch socks layered in different colors.

1988 layers of scrunch socks

Another trend in girls and 80s teenage fashion were socks that are back today – lace edge socks.  White lace on colored socks or colored lace on white socks was a pretty way to bring a bit of little girl nostalgic to an outfit. They were worn with flat shoes and sandals to best show off the lace cuff.

80s lace trim socks

Another sock trend brought on by the athletics craze was tube socks. Knee-high and usually striped, these socks were typically worn pulled all the way up. They were typically worn as a fashion item by men, but were worn as athletic wear by both women and men. Learn more about vintage socks history. 

Shop vintage style 80s socks. 

80s socks and leg warmers. Shop now.

80s Fashion Accessories

Jewelry in the ’80s was big, bold, and flashy. “Less is more” was not in style. ’80s jewelry was all about stacking, mixing, and matching all types of jewelry.

Shop 80s accessories here. 

Madonna wearing beaded necklaces and gold dangle earrings

Large earrings were one of the most memorable trends of the ’80s. Big hoops, studs, and long dangling earrings were popular, and these were usually paired with matching bracelets and necklaces.

Long pearl necklaces were worn for a dressy look, while beaded necklaces, pendants, and chunky metal necklaces with or without stones were worn for casual or dressy occasions. Bangles, cuffs, and charm bracelets were worn in the ’80s, and both necklaces and bracelets were stacked to give an individual look. Cocktail rings — decorative rings typically made with large, colorful stones — were worn by mature women.

For teens and pre-teens, jelly bracelets, Swatch watches, and friendship bracelets were popular jewelry trends. With jelly bracelets, the more you could wear, the better! Jelly bracelets were inexpensive and came in all colors. Swatch watches were colorful plastic watches that came in a wide variety of colors and designs. The more Swatch watches you wore, the cooler you were!

1980s swatch watches

Belts were a big trend for women in the ’80s. They were the easiest way a woman could get the cinched waist look to counteract the wide shoulders and flared skirts that were trendy at the time. Belts in the ’80s could be thin or wide and have big or decorative buckles. They were often worn over long shirts or sweaters, as well as dresses.

Wearing hats had been losing popularity since the ’50s, but the ’80s saw a resurgence in hats as fashion.

Many styles were brought back from previous eras, including fedoras, newsboy caps, berets, and even the bowler. These styles topped the heads of some of the most famous heads of the era, including Michael Jackson, Boy George, and Princess Diana. Another hat made popular by celebrities was the bucket hat. Kangol was the must-have brand and was worn by a lot of ’80s rappers. Kangol hats have seen a recent resurgence and are still available for sale today. 

Debbie Gibson wearing a bowler hat

Baseball caps were ubiquitous in the ’80s because of the variety of styles and designs available. Visors — basically baseball caps minus the crown — were another trendy style in the ’80s, especially with the health and fitness craze.

Shop ’80s-style hats here . 

Shop 80s style hats, visors, headbands

An ’80s summer fashion look wouldn’t be complete without ’80s sunglasses — and luckily, there are lots of styles to choose from! One of the most popular styles in the ’80s (and still available today) was the Ray-Ban Wayfarer, as featured in the movie Risky Business . These sunglasses spawned tons of knockoff styles, including styles with contrasting earpieces.  

1987 Wayfarer-style sunglasses

Most women’s sunglasses in the ’80s were large, often with colorful frames. They came in round or geometric shapes.

Shop Retro Sunglasses

1987 FM radio sunglasses

1980s Hairstyles

’80s hair is most known for its volume. Big, fluffy, curly looks, often with bangs, were replicated by women all over. Women achieved volume with their hair by crimping, curling, or getting a perm, and these methods worked on both long and short hair. Naturally, all of these styles were held in place using lots of hairspray!

Women’s teased hairstyles, 1980s

An alternative to the big hairstyles of the era was short and straight hair with bangs, or a feathered look á la Farrah Fawcett. Another alternative was a short, almost masculine cut worn by many mature women. 

Hair accessories such as hair bows, clips, headbands, barrettes, and scrunchies were also popular. Headbands were typically worn straight across the forehead like sweatbands, and one trend was to wear a bandana wrapped around the head like a headband. Scrunchies were popular for teens and girls, particularly when worn in a side ponytail. Women also wore them with workout outfits.

Shop ’80s-style hair accessories here.

1983 girls’ hairstyles. Note the side ponytail and hair accessories.

1980s Makeup

Like the other aspects of ’80s fashion, ’80s makeup was all about more! Lots of thick black eyeliner, red or pink blush, and bright lips characterized the ’80s makeup look. A woman would start with a thick layer of foundation, then use bronzing powder. Self-tanning was also popular in the ’80s, and lots of products were available to help women achieve that glowing tanned look. 

1982 day makeup

Eye makeup in the ’80s was all about color. Eyeshadows in all shades were popular, and eyeliner and mascara were also available in new shades such as green, blue, and purple. Mascara and eye liner was applied in multiple layers for maximum thickness. Eye liner was applied to both top and bottom and in the waterline. 

Thick black eyeliner and a colorful smokey eye were the standard makeup look for the ’80s. Colors could be electric blue, shimmering gold, frosty purple, grass green, sky blue, deep purple, or bright orange. Applying more than one shadow was common.  Blue or pink shadow over the entire eyelid then a pale orange, pink, or white shadow is blended into the arch of the brow. Eyebrows were typically left natural or darkened slightly. The shape was even and somewhat thick. 

’80s blush was usually thick and red or a vibrant pink. Blush was applied under the cheekbones and drawn toward the temple. The ’80s were not a time for subtle makeup looks!

Blush extends up the cheekbone

Beauty marks also came back into style, a trend that’s typically attributed to the singer Madonna. Use brown eyeliner to dot one on. 

Lips were typically lined first in a slightly darker color, then coated in brick red, bright pink, scarlet, fuchsia, chocolate, mauve, or orange lipstick. A woman could also wear a more neutral shade of lipstick or lipgloss to emphasize her eyes. For teens, the go-to shade was bright pink, worn with thick eyeliner and a smokey eye.

1986 soft makeup- neutral lipsticks, grey shadow

And that wraps up the fabulous, funky ’80s. This article only begins to scratch the surface of ’80s fashion, because there were unique trends for each year, every age group, special occasions, and a plethora of sub genres. If the look you want is not covered here, just ask me for help .

Shop 80s Style Clothing

• 80s Jeans, Pants, Leggings 
• 80s Jumpsuits and Overalls
• 80s Vintage Dresses – Casual to party dresses, real vintage 80s dresses
• 80s Style Prom Dresses, formal dresses, cocktail dresses
• 70-80s Workout Clothes- Retro gym cloths, roller skating outfits
• 80s Costumes- women and men 80s party and Halloween costumes
• 80s Tops and T-shirts for women. new and vintage shirts
• 80s Sweatshirts and sweaters for women
• 80s Shoes – Women’s shoes, sandals, feels, flats, jellies, and boots. More retro sneakers here
• 80s Hats – Women and men’s hats, caps and visors
• 80s Jackets – Women and men. Windbreakers, leather, denim, track jackets
• 80s Accessories – Hair scrunchies, clips, gloves, socks, belts and more
• 80s Costumes –  Girls and Guys
• 90s Clothing- Move on into the 1990s

1980s Outfit Ideas

What do you wear to a 1980s party? Most girls will wear a layered mix of brightly colored clothes with over the top accessories and crazy 80s hair to make an 80s party outfit. The 80s rocker look is also trendy with tutus, lace leggings, strands of bead necklaces and fingerless gloves. The ugly 80s prom dress is another classic look- bring on the pink!

See these any many more 80s outfit ideas in these articles:

80s Outfits Ideas

80s Party Outfits

Debbie Sessions has been teaching fashion history and helping people dress for vintage themed events since 2009. She has turned a hobby into VintageDancer.com with hundreds of well researched articles and hand picked links to vintage inspired clothing online. She aims to make dressing accurately (or not) an affordable option for all. Oh, and she dances too.

Dressing in vintage style clothing for a themed event or personal fashion is our passion. We, Debbie and Oscar Sessions, turned a hobby into this website to make it easy to find vintage inspired clothing for women and men online spanning 1860-1980s. Our fashion history blog helps you create the look from decades past using vintage, vintage inspired and thrifty clothing. Need help? Ask us anytime.

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80's Fashion

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80s Fashion

If you grew up in the 1980s you know that 80s fashion was big, it was bright, and it was loud! You might have worn some bright neon clothes, very large tops, had larger than life hair, and chances are you would have felt good about it too.

The 1980s was really a golden age for music and movies, and along with that came all of the iconic looks that we know today as 80’s fashion.

Celebrities like Madonna, Michael Jackson, Molly Ringwald, and Cyndi Lauper heavily influenced the masses when it came to what they wore. And even though it has been decades since the 1980s, we still look fondly back at the crazy (and cool) fashion trends of the time.

Why 80s Fashion Was Iconic

When we look back at the fashion trends of the 80s, we can recognize it to be almost a renaissance of fashion. Prior to the 1970s fashion was quite conservative and subdued. Eventually with the hippies of the 70s, fashion started to open up and become more daring. Peace, love, and rock n roll was all the rage, and fashion began to become more provocative.

Fast forward to the 1980s and fashion was kicked into high gear. The 80s built upon the sexual revolution of the 70s, and a cultural transformation began to take hold. People were no longer afraid to be who they were, and that mentality was reflected in their fashion choices. Bold colors, more skin, and unique accessories ushered in an era of fashion that many consider to be the best of the 20th century.

Your 80s Style Defined You

Probably no other decade of the 20th century defined society with fashion like the 1980s. The fashion choices you made really revealed who you were, and people used clothing and accessories to create their own identities.

If you were a rebellious young adult you might have worn neon clothing. If you were a spoiled rich kid, you may have just stuck to preppy fashion. Or if you just wanted to disappear into the ether, you may have only worn 80s casual fashion to blend in.

No matter who you were, your fashion let society know what you were all about, and the popular clothing brands of the 80s did their best to cater to these needs. What you wore really defined you, and this fact is probably something more true to the 1980s than any other decade in recent memory.

80s Neon Fashion

Fashion in the 1980s was all about making a statement, and you often made that statement with 80s neon fashion which let the world know that you were hip and trendy. Typically a popular choice among young adults, neon clothing seemed to be ubiquitous in 1980s society.

Something neon green or bright orange made you stand out in a crowd, and being bold was something 80s fashion was all about. So it’s not surprising how popular neon fashion was during the 1980s, and also how it remains one of the most memorable fashion trends of that era.

Neon fashion also wasn’t just restricted to pants and tops. Neon accessories were also quite popular too. Everything from jelly bracelets to sunglasses came in neon, and you could just about find anything you wanted in a bright color during the 1980s.

80s Workout Fashion

Building on neon clothes, oddly enough 80s workout clothes was also revolutionary. The 1980s was really when people began caring about what they put in their bodies, and fitness and exercise were becoming really mainstream.

Celebrities like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, and Jane Fonda made people want to get physically fit. Movies like “Perfect” (1985) also highlighted the fitness craze that was storming the nation.

And in the 1980s fashion wasn’t only considered when going out, if you were hitting the gym, you needed to look good too. Spandex, leggings, and leg warmers were popular trends for women getting their workout on. For men muscle tees and short shorts were popular, and of course unisex accessories like headbands and armbands kept you cool while working up a sweat!

80s Preppy Fashion

If you weren’t fond of the bright colors and gaudy designs of 80s neon fashion, you probably fell on the other end of the spectrum with the subtle “I’m better than you” 80s preppy fashion trend that was also quite popular during the 1980s.

Companies like Lacoste and Ralph Lauren catered to the sophisticated preppy folk, and there was no better way to let people know you had money by dressing up in these brands during the 80s.

80s Fashion And Music

It should come as no surprise that 80’s fashion was heavily influenced by popular music artists of the time. People wanted to be like their favorite singer or musician, and this of course meant emulating the way they dressed as well.

Whether you wanted the material girl look of Madonna, or the hip hop swag of Run DMC, entertainers of the 1980s really had a big influence on a generation of people that just wanted to be cool and fit in. Thus the 80s created a generation that really found its fashion identity based around the music they loved.

80s Pop Fashion

If you were into pop music in the 1980s, there’s no doubt that superstars like Madonna and Cyndi Lauper influenced what you wore. 80’s pop fashion really heavily influenced what women wore more so than men. Everything from the big hairstyles, fishnet clothing, and glitter makeup were emulated by teenage girls (and women) across the country.

Female pop stars also popularized the use of fashion accessories. Things like big earrings, bracelets, scrunchies, and fingerless gloves were very popular in the 1980s. And when it came to fashion accessories, typically the bigger the better!

For men, fashion icons like Michael Jackson and David Bowie made it ok to wear sequined clothing and even makeup to accentuate your features. Leather anything was also a popular choice when it came to men’s pop fashion in the 80’s, and any stylish man of the day at least owned a leather jacket and some leather pants.

80s Rock Fashion

The best decade ever was also a big decade for 80’s rock fashion . Legendary bands like Def Leppard, Motley Crue, and Guns n Roses set the tone with a lot of leather, even bigger hair, and accessories like leather bracelets and gloves.

Denim jeans and tops were also popular when it came to rockers of the 80s. Often they were acid washed or ripped, and they were usually paired with some sort of sleeveless top that showed off some cool tattoos.

Rock fashion in the 80s often showed a lot of skin, and the wild fashion choices definitely matched the rollercoaster lifestyles of the rock bands of the day.

80s Hip Hop Fashion

The 1980s was also the golden era of hip hop, and with the emergence of superstar groups like Run DMC and N.W.A. so gave birth to what we know today as 80’s hip hop fashion .

80’s hip hop fashion was all about looking cool but at the same time letting people know you weren’t meant to be messed with. It had a underground feel, but also some flashy and over the top features.

For men Starter Jackets was a must have, along with accessories like a big dookie chain , four finger rings , and a trucker hat of your favorite sports team. Bucket hats were also popular along with some fresh white Adidas or Reebok sneakers to complete your 80s hip hop fashion look.

For women denim jeans and jackets were in, but they also wore starter jackets as well (unisex fashion). Also accessories like dookie chains, big gold earrings, gold rings, and gold bracelets were necessary to accentuate the 80s hip hop look. Hip hop superstars like Salt n Pepa heavily influenced hip hop fashion for women in the 1980s.

80s Punk Fashion

For the more rebellious folk, the 1980s also was a time for great punk fashion. This was for the most daring and un-conforming in society. 80s punk fashion was bold and outrageous, and it let people know you didn’t care at all about society’s rules or what other people thought!

For men black leather pants and jackets were in. Often these had metallic features or sequins on them, as well as patches or other loud designs. Torn jean pants were also popular, as well as any tartan clothing . Sleeveless shirts were also often worn under these jackets, and the outfit was topped off usually with some Doc Martens leather boots .

For women tight fitting tops and leather jackets were fashionable. Also anything fishnet (tops or leggings) were popular, as well as mini skirts that were often made of leather. Black leather boots were also very popular, along with fingerless gloves and loud makeup to complete the look.

As for 80s punk fashion hair, just like other genres of 80s fashion, generally the bigger the better. Men often sported mohawks or variations of mohawks that were often dyed loud colors like pink, orange, or red. Women also had large mohawk type hairstyles, though many also preferred large perms as well.

80s Women’s Fashion

Women’s fashion during the 1980s also ran the spectrum from cute and conservative, to bold and loud. Many would say that 80s women’s fashion was much more daring because they could take their looks a lot further. Unlike their male counterparts, women could take their 80s style to greater heights with the plethora of accessories and makeup available to them.

However despite their wide latitude of choices, they also had core fashion items that helped define women’s fashion in the 1980s.

Oversized Tops

For example oversized tops was all the rage which was made popular by many celebrities like Jennifer Beal in movies like “Flashdance”. The oversized poorly fitting top let people know you didn’t play by society’s rules. These tops often could be neon colored if you were going out with friends, but they could be stylish as just grey like it was in the movie when lounging at home.

Power Suits

On the flip side business fashion was taken to new heights in the 1980s with the popularity of Power Suits . When it came to suits, traditionally we thought of it as a fashion being reserved for men. However the 1980s saw the empowerment of women, and we saw powerful women like Princess Diana, Nancy Reagan, and Margaret Thatcher all popularizing this fashion trend.

In the 1980s women were no longer relegated to the home, they were front and center in the world of business and politics, and Power Suits was a fashion that let the world know you were a serious player.

Another popular fashion trend for women in the 1980s were Jumpsuits . These were one piece outfits that went from head to toe that could be worn both casually or for formal occasions. These came either with or without sleeves, and typically were cinched at the waist with a belt. They also were sometimes worn with a jacket for a more formal look.

Though Jumpsuits started off as a unisex fashion, by the time the 1980s rolled around it was typically worn more by women.

Puff Sleeve Dress

A unique fashion for women in the 1980s was the Puff Sleeve Dress . These were basically dresses with inflated sleeves, and they were typically worn for special occasions like prom or weddings.

However puff sleeves were also available for casual wear such as blouses, though when we think of the fashion we typically imagine the dresses that worn by celebrities like Joan Collins, Linda Evans, and Brooke Shields.

Bubble Skirts

An interesting women’s fashion of the 80s were Bubble Skirts . These were skirts that basically “poofed” out at the bottom and formed a bubble look. These were typically seen as a part of formal dresses, though they were sometimes seen in casual wear as well.

Iconic women like Princess Diana and Naomi Campbell were just a couple of women who made the fashion popular in the 1980s, and it is a look that is definitely unique when compared to contemporary fashion trends.

High Waisted Jeans

Another 80s fashion trend popular with women were High Waisted Jeans . These were sometimes referred to as “Mom Jeans”, and they are so named because they button high over the waist. This was a popular trend among women in the 1980s because the style was both comfortable and made their legs look longer.

Dolphin Shorts

Dolfin Shorts (aka Dolphin Shorts) were a brand of thigh high shorts that were popular with women in the 1980s. These were great for leisure wear and perfect for basically any outdoor athletic activity. However the short length of Dolphin Shorts made them controversial, with many schools banning them in the late 1980s.

However despite the controversy, they still remained a popular choice among teenage women and young adults as a way to keep cool during summer months.

Animal Print Clothing

Animal print clothing was another popular 1980s fashion trend for women. Of course we are not talking about real fur, but rather faux animal prints that made you look stylish and a bit wild.

When it came to animal print, you could literally find them on any item out there. From tops to pants, to purses and hats, during the 80s animal print clothing was everywhere.

Another popular women’s 80s fashion trend was “Polka Dots”. This pattern of clothing whether it was in a skirt or a blouse was a way for women that were more on the conservative side to add a little edgy flare to their outfits. Fashion icons like Princess Diana made polka dot clothing en vogue, and women across the world took notice.

Crop Tops And Mini Skirts

In contrast 80s women’s fashion could also be bold and loud, and many pop icons like Madonna and Cyndi Lauper wore crop tops and mini skirts often accompanied by an excessive amount of jewelry.

Bold Makeup

Furthermore 80s women’s fashion trends of the day include using bold colors and glitter for their makeup choices. When it came to 80s makeup looks subtlety was something often left behind by the women of the 1980s, and along with your crazy outfits and excessive jewelry, your face needed to match your oversized personality.

Stretch Stirrups

For the ladies when it came to pants, during the 1980s stretch stirrups were quite popular. These were pants that would hook your heel at the bottom, and women liked them because they believed it made them look taller and slimmer.

Of course we couldn’t talk about 80s women’s fashion unless we mentioned spandex. In the 1980s spandex was everywhere. You could wear it casually going to the mall or for your workout at the gym.

Leg Warmers

And lets not forget every hip woman’s 1980’s fashion go-to leg warmers that despite looking odd today, was quite common to see anywhere from the gym or at the mall.

80s Men’s Fashion

When it came to 80s men’s fashion we need to realize it was a different era. In the 1980s men were macho and masculine. Celebrities like Tom Selleck, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, and John Travolta were examples of a very alpha male culture that men wanted to imitate.

If you were a man in the 1980s, chances are you had a thick 80s moustache and grew chest hair that peaked through your shirt, or you spent all day at the gym trying to get jacked. Skinny and lean men are much more celebrated today, but back in the 1980s things were different.

In the 1980s men were big, hairy, and macho. Many today would consider this culture to be “toxically masculine” but that’s just how things were back then.

That being said men’s fashion in the 1980s was also quirky and sometimes bordered on the ridiculous.

Here are some of the most notable men’s fashion trends from the 1980s.

Slogan T-Shirts

The 1980s was all about self-expression, and what better way to express yourself than with a Slogan T-Shirt . These were t-shirts that basically had large bold letters on them. Typically featuring a slogan or support of some political cause, they were a very popular way to be fashionable and heard in the 1980s.

Lacoste Polo Shirts

Not everyone in the 1980s subscribed to outlandish and bold neon fashion, there were quite a few who preferred the popular and much more conservative “Preppy Look” at the time. And a staple of this look was the Lacoste Polo Shirt . These polos let people know that you came from money, and they were a core staple of any rich person’s wardrobe.

The Lacoste Polo Shirt went well with khaki pants and some Sperry Top-Siders , and was perfect fashion for the yacht club to the tennis court. And if you were feeling extra feisty, you could wear them with popped collars for an even more rebellious look!

Sweaters Tied Around The Neck

And we couldn’t mention Lacoste polos and not mention the infamous Sweater Tied Around The Neck fashion trend. If you wanted to take your preppy look to the next level, you rocked this style to make sure everyone knew you came from money. Simply wrapping a sweater around your neck while wearing a Lacoste polo unleashed your maximum preppy superpowers.

Miami Vice Suits

When Miami Vice hit the air in 1984 the show would change fashion forever. Every week viewers would turn in to see Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas in their Miami Vice Suits taking on the criminals of South Beach.

These suits typically had matching blazers and pants, and they were paired with a pastel undershirt. Besides being great for fighting crime, it was a stylish way to dress for a night out on the town.

Silk Shirts

Likewise in the 1980s the Miami Vice lifestyle was all the rage, and with that also came the rise in popularity of silk shirts . Though not the most practical style of clothing to own (they were notoriously difficult to maintain), the look they gave you was unlike any other piece of clothing out there.

Silk shirts of the 1980s often had bold and wild patterns, and it was a popular choice for fashionable men when it came to a night out on the town.

Muscle Tees

The 80s was all about masculine male culture, and along with the rise in popularity of health and fitness during the 80s, we saw the biggest and buffest among us wearing Muscle Tees . These were made popular by celebrities like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone, who were the biggest action movie stars of the 80s.

If you had a buff bod and wanted to show it off, the best way to do it was to workout in a muscle tee at your local gym.

Bomber Jackets

Bomber Jackets have been around since the early 1900s, but it wasn’t until movies like Top Gun in the 1980s where these jackets became massively popular. Men in the 80s saw movie stars like Tom Cruise rocking a Bomber Jacket while saving the day, and the rest as they say is history!

The Bomber Jacket is not only a fashionable choice, but it is comfortable and protective as well. It’s no wonder that it was such a popular 80s fashion trend for men at the time.

Hawaiian Shirts

An unlikely but popular fashion in the 1980s were Hawaiian Shirts . Though their roots can be traced back all the way to the 1920s, it wasn’t until the 80s where stars like Tom Selleck in Magnum P.I. put these floral shirts front and center.

These shirts were typically bright colored and short sleeved, and also featured patterns like flowers or trees, as well as various tropical activities such as surfing or sailing.

Parachute Pants

In the 80s Parachute Pants were big, they were baggy and they were what you had to wear if you wanted to dance and move easily. They came in many different colors and even had fake zippers and pockets that added something special to the outfit.

Zubaz Pants

Zubaz pants was also a thing due to their popularity amongst the fitness and pro-athlete community.  The Zubaz Pants trend flourished in the 1980s because it was the heyday of big muscle movie stars like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone. People were starting to take fitness more seriously, and thus the fashion that came along with that lifestyle.

If you wanted to look and feel great at the beach, you needed a pair of Jam Shorts (or Jams for short). These were the preferred choice of fashionable men when it came to beachwear in the 1980s.

Jam Shorts stood out from the crowd because they featured bright colors and quintessentially 80s designs. They were also great to lounge around in, making them a good choice when you were away from the beach as well.

Letterman Jackets

If you were a high school jock a popular men’s 80s fashion was the Letterman Jacket which let your classmates know you were one of the popular kids. You earned your way onto the football team, and you needed to remind everyone (often daily) that you were a superior physical specimen.

Members Only Jackets

Another popular 80s fashion trend were the hugely popular Members Only Jackets . If you had one of these, people knew you were serious when it came to your clothing. It gave the wearer status as the jackets were far from cheap.

If you were into fitness and wanted to showoff your washboard abs, another fashion trend in the 1980s popular among men was the Crop Top which was basically a cut off shirt that showed off your midsection. It may seem odd today, but during the 1980s nobody batted an eye when men walked around wearing these, and if you were fit, it was probably a turn on for the opposite sex.

Short Shorts

If you were really feeling yourself as a man, another 80s men’s fashion trend were uncomfortably short shorts which were also perfectly acceptable at the time. These were shorts that probably used half the material that they should’ve, but was made socially acceptable because macho celebrities like Tom Selleck, Sean Connery, and John Travolta made them cool to wear. I mean if Magnum P.I. wore them, they must be perfectly masculine right?

80s Clothes Needed Accessories

No matter what 80’s fashion trend you followed, no outfit was complete without the right accessories. There were numerous must-have 80s accessories that were key to being en vogue, and the 1980s may be the decade where fashion accessories were the most emphasized.

What was also prevalent when it came to 80s accessories was not just the types, but also the amounts. For example you didn’t just wear one bracelet, you might have worn 5-7 of them on each arm.

Same with necklaces, one wasn’t enough, and it was quite common to wear 3-5 necklaces with your outfit. It wasn’t uncommon to wear anywhere from 10-15 accessories at a time which seems quite outlandish by today’s standards, but perfectly normal during the 1980s.

Besides the quantity, 80s accessories were often very unique to the decade, and even to this day we recognize these to be synonymous with the era.

Shoulder Pads

Huge shoulder pads let people know you were serious, and it wasn’t uncommon for people to wear two pairs of shoulder pads at any one time. Any time you wore a suit, it wasn’t complete unless you had shoulder pads, and they gave you the confidence you needed to tackle whatever it was you were dressed for.

Beaded Jewelry

Another popular 80s women fashion trend was to accessorize outfits with beaded jewelry . During the 80s beaded jewelry whether it was bracelets or necklaces were quite popular. They were stylish but also inexpensive, and the latter point made them explode in popularity since they were easily accessible especially to a younger demographic.

Again with this accessory quantity was key. Often women would wear multiple beaded necklaces and bracelets to create a misfit vibe that would add some chaotic flare to their 80s fashion ensemble.

Cross Necklaces

During the 1980s cross necklaces were big. They were a way that you could express your religious beliefs, but in an edgy and provocative way. Madonna made cross necklaces mainstream during the 1980s as she often wore them and utilized religious symbols in her music.

Huge Earrings

Another 80s fashion must have accessory for the ladies were large and often gaudy earrings.  Wearing huge earrings meant you had status and you wanted to be noticed. Some were so large they were nicknamed ‘Door knockers’ and would be so big they were shoulder length.

Fingerless Gloves

Another women’s 1980s fashion accessory that was often seen were fingerless gloves .  These gloves became increasingly popular thanks to the large number of pop and punk stars who were seen wearing them during performances or in print media. 

Music icons like Michael Jackson and Madonna were just the tip of the iceberg when it came to celebrities that rocked them during the 1980s, so it’s not surprising that they became trendy amongst the youth as a must have 80s fashion accessory.

Slouchy Socks

A uniquely peculiar fashion accessory during the 80s were Slouchy Socks . This was a look by taking 3 or more pairs of socks and layering them over each other. If you wanted to go the extra mile, you could match the colors of the socks to the outfit you were wearing.

This trend was popular among teenagers and young adults, and it is a fashion trend that is definitely uniquely 80s.

Trucker Hats

If you were on the go and didn’t have time to fix your hair, you could just plop on a Trucker Hat and be on your way. These hats had mesh backs and typically featured your favorite logo or slogan prominently on the front.

They were a popular 80s casual fashion that was both unisex and functional. They looked great and protected you from the heat, and often came in a bunch of colors and designs you could match to any outfit.

Ray-Ban Sunglasses

And of course your 80s fashion outfit wouldn’t be complete without a cool set of sunglasses. When it came to 80s style, there was nothing more iconic than a fresh set of Ray-Ban Sunglasses (either Wayfarers or Aviators) that made you look too cool for school.

Celebrities like Tom Cruise wore them in legendary 1980s movies like “Risky Business” and “Top Gun” and they would instantly become an 80s fashion classic.

Cazal Sunglasses

And while the mainstream were flocking towards Ray-Ban Wayfarers and Aviators, there were those that preferred Cazal Sunglasses or “Cazals”. These were luxury boxy sunglasses that were popular among the growing hip hop crowd in America.

Popularized by famous wearers like Run DMC and Spike Lee, if you had Cazals people knew that you had made it, because these sunglasses though fashionable, were not cheap.

And of course if you had a nice pair of Ray-Bans or Cazals, you needed a fashionable way to keep them from falling, and for that the 80s gave us Croakies . These were neoprene straps that you could attach to the frames of your sunglasses so they would stay securely on your head.

They often came in bright neon colors and dazzling prints, and they were just another way to combine convenience with fashion.

Swatch Watches

Of course in the 80s you needed to also have a fashionable watch, and a popular choice during the time were Swatch Watches (or Swatches). When these came out in the early 80s there was really nothing like them out there. The colors were bright and the designs were bold, and they were an immediate hit.

The Swatch Watch was fashionable and also affordable, and they often came with interchangeable faceplates so you could change the look of your watch to match the outfit you were wearing.

Popular 80s Hairstyles

Of course when we talk about 1980s fashion we have to talk about the epic hairstyles. Just as iconic as the clothing were the hairstyles of the 1980s .

The 1980s was all about big hair for both men and women, and it wasn’t uncommon for people to sport puffed-up hair styles that were almost as wide as their shoulders. Men and women spent millions of dollars on hair products of the 1980s like Aqua Net and Mousse to create larger than life hairstyles that could withstand hurricane force winds!

So what were some popular hairstyles of the 1980s?

Perm Hairstyle

One of the most popular hairstyles for women in the 80s was the “perm hairstyle”. The perm hairstyle was one that was quite tedious to do as it involved chemicals and curling irons, but women did it anyway because it was in style and all the rage. Celebrities like Barbara Streisand, Meg Ryan, and Cher were all women that helped make this hairstyle popular during the 80s.

Side Ponytail

Another popular women’s hairstyle during the 80s was the side ponytail . Basically it was just a ponytail you tied with a scrunchy or other hair tie that lopped off to one side of your head, and the ease of creating this look added to its popularity. The side ponytail was a favorite of younger women, and the hairstyle showed off your fun and quirky side.

Feathered Hair

Although a unisex hairstyle, 80s feathered hair was more popular among women than men. The hairstyle got its name because of the very airy “feathery” look, and it remains one of the most memorable hairstyles for women that we think of during that time.

Celebrities like Farrah Fawcett and Heather Locklear helped popularize the hairstyle during the early 80s, and it was a great choice if you preferred a more “conservative” hairstyle over your more daring counterparts.

Crimped Hair

Another popular trend for women during the 1980s was the crimped hairstyle . Women would use hair crimpers to create this wavy zigzag look, and it was particularly popular among younger women.

Celebrities like Alyssa Milano and Jodi Foster were just a few of the prominent women that rocked this hairstyle during the 1980s.

Though it did take a bit of work, the hairstyle looked cool and matched a lot of groovy fashion of the day.

While ladies had the perm hairstyle, men were also big hair fans as well during the 80s. Rock bands and celebrities made larger than life hairstyles en vogue for men during the time.

It was clear the 1980’s was a decade where ‘The bigger the better’ was king, and hair was no exception. Big hair bands like Motley Crue, Bon Jovi, and Def Leppard all contributed to the big hair trend for men during the 80s.

Another big hairstyle for men was the 80s mullet haircut . These days we usually stereotype mullet haircuts with country folk, but back in the 1980s the mullet was fairly mainstream. The “Business in the front, party in the back” hairstyle permeated American culture, and many celebrities like Patrick Swayze and Rob Lowe rocked this hairstyle legitimately as sex symbols!

The Jheri Curl

However no discussion of 1980s hairstyles would be complete without mentioning the Jheri Curl and all it’s glistening glory. This hairstyle was popular in the black community, and was rocked by prominent black celebrities like Michael Jackson and also featured in hit 80s movies like “Coming To America” where Eric LaSalle’s character sported the style for millions to see.

Is 80s Fashion Coming Back?

From time to time we all spot 80’s clothing in a high street clothing store, or on a catwalk model, but while this style of clothing is not as big as it once was, it is making somewhat of a comeback.

Because we now love all-things retro, more and more people are finding an appreciation for 80’s fashion, which means those huge earrings, big tops, leg warmers, Members Only Jackets and shoulder pads could find their way into your wardrobe once more.

Also more and more people are beginning to throw 80’s theme parties and events, and 80’s fashion is always popular during the Halloween season. So if it’s 80’s fashion tips you’re after, please check out the rest of this site for more in depth information on 80’s style as well as the rich culture that was in our opinion the greatest decade of the 20th century.

A Fashionable History: ’80s Edition

Channel this decade for a totally rad look.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you purchase through our links. Please read our full disclosure here .

’80s fashion  is a little like fight club, in that the general rule is to talk about it as little as possible.

While ’90s and ’70s looks have been resurfacing for years now, it’s taken us a bit longer to re-embrace ’80s fashion. Perhaps it’s because we’re still shaken by the crazy prints and parachute pants of the decade. And that’s not even bringing up the hair! 

All jokes aside, though,  there’s a lot we can learn from ’80s fashion . After all, is there any other era that was so unashamed of making a statement? While we usually associate the ’80s with neons and bold patterns, jelly bracelets, and kinda ridiculous makeup (seriously, google any picture of  Cindy Lauper ), it also brought us athletic-inspired trends, a re-imagining of glam rock style, and fashion icons like  Madonna  and  Molly Ringwald . The ’80s challenged how big, bright, and bold we dared to be.

{RELATED POST: ’80s Style Clothing Ideas You Should Try This Spring }

So if you’d like to see how you can bring back a bit of the 80’s, check out these  three looks of varying levels of ’80s-ness . Grab your fanny pack and keep scrolling!

Table of Contents

80s Fashion Outfit #1: You Better Work

Products : Leggings – Yoins , Shirt – Victoria’s Secret Pink , Watch – Amazon , Shoes – Amazon

While the full intensity of the  ’80s aerobics trend  may be a bit much for your day-to-day look (leg warmers, anyone?) the overall idea of the style is super fun and super comfortable. 

For a more 2019 take on an athletics-inspired look, start with a casual varsity tee and pair it with these amazing galaxy leggings, which harken back to the bright tights of the ’80s. Some sneakers – Converse in this case – keep you ready to go. This jelly watch is a little throwback to the bright bangles that could be found on any cool ’80s teen. 

Related reading: What to Wear to an ’80s Party: The Best ’80s Party Outfits for Ladies

80s Fashion Outfit #2: Material Girl

Products: Joggers – H&M , Bralette – Topshop , Heels – Charlotte Russe , Jacket – American Eagle , Earrings – ASOS

This outfit is a fun night-out look that combines two ’80s music trends. Unlike most things in the ’80s,  glam rock fashion  actually became a bit more toned down during the decade. Also,  Madonna , as I mentioned earlier, helped define ’80s fashion with her simultaneously edgy and elegant looks. This outfit draws from both the rock and pop vibes.

Joggers are kind of a modern girl’s answer to parachute pants: just as comfy, but with 50% less M.C. Hammer.

Red heels and a sequined purse add a bit more glam to the look, while a distressed denim jacket keeps this look from being too dressy.

80s Fashion – Outfit #3: Neon Lights

Products : Sweater – H&M , Skirt – Shein , Shoes – H&M, Nail Polish – Dermstore , Necklace – Simons , Backpack – ASOS

Now, just in case those last two outfits gave you the impression that the ’80s had any chill whatsoever, let me just remind you that  they did not. 

The patterned sweaters, neon crop tops, and stirrup pants you usually see associated with ’80s fashion were  actual things that people wore back then . This may seem like the hardest trend to work into your own style, but never fear, it’s far more wearable than it seems!

The secret with  neons  is that you really need to limit yourself to only one or two neons per outfit. A highlighter pink pencil skirt may seem like a bold choice, but when paired with a boxy black knit sweater and black ankle boots, it just becomes a fun pop of color. If we only had one neon, though, it wouldn’t be very ’80s, so I recommend nail polish, sunglasses or even a short pair of socks in a lively pink as a secondary neon.

Finally, the bag itself isn’t a necessity, but by finding a brightly colored bag like this cute little mini backpack, you too can have a totally ’80s way to carry your stuff.

What do you think?

What’s your opinion on ’80s fashion? Are you planning to incorporate it into your look this year? Are there any ’80s trends you think I should have included?  Let us know in the comments, we’d love to hear from you!

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in 2016; it was completely updated and revamped in 2019 with new photos and information.

1 thought on “A Fashionable History: ’80s Edition”

I think the 80s pop musicians like Cyndi Lauper and Madonna represent the *actual* practical 80s looks as much as Lady Gaga represents the practical looks of today 😛 Look to 80s movies and clothing (not make-up) advertisements for inspiration. I think also that the 90s and 70s have air of the casual and care-free which appeals to people today, but the 80s, despite the leggings and a few things, were a bit more formal. I rock the 80s fashion regularly and I think the decade is very underrated.

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Fashion — Cultural Shift Through Power Dressing in 80s Fashion Trends

Cultural Shift Through Power Dressing in 80s Fashion Trends

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Published: Aug 14, 2023

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Significance of 80s power dressing trends.

• Steele, V. (Ed.). (2010). 'The Berg Companion to Fashion.' Berg Publishers.
• Colleen, H. (1990). 'The Power Dressing 80s.' The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
• McDowell, C. (1984). 'Power Dressing.' Vogue.
• Gold, G. (2005). '80s Fashion: From Power Suits to Pinstripes.' Thames & Hudson.
• Steele, V. (Ed.). (1997). 'Chic Clicks: Creativity and Commerce in Contemporary Fashion Photography.' University of California Press.
• Thomas, P. (1989). 'Style Icons Vol 1. Golden Boys.' Fashion Media.

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Analysis of the 80s Fashion Trends

80s Fashion! For many, the 1980s was a great time. The creation of MTV revolutionised fashion, the music industry and even how we watched TV. But for others, it was nothing but bad hair, worse clothing and music often had more to do with machines than talent. The clothes worn in the 80s depicted people who were trying to find themselves. They looked fro ways to express their creativity and individuality.

Men wore heavy make-up and grew long hair; for example David Bowie or Boy George.

Whilst women wore layers of clothing and short hair cuts. The likes of Madonna and Cindy Lauper rocked this look. Both sexes were looking for an identity. Famous Fashion Trends In the 80s: New Romantic Look, Valley Girl, Power dressing, Leotards and Dance wear and Miami Vice Look were just a few famous trends that people in the eighties wore. New romantic Look:

New Wave, New Romantic, and gothic fashion at this time was heavily influenced by punk fashion: the streaky eyeliner, the spiked hair, the outrageous clothing, some of which derived from bondage wear and some of which (New Romantic) was a nod to long-gone eras.

Power Dressing: Shoulder Pads, popularised by Joan Collins and Linda Evans from the soap Opera Dynasty, remained popular throughout the 1980s and even the first three years of the 1990s.

Women’s Clothing In The 80s

The reason behind the sudden popularity of shoulder pads for women in the 1980s may be that women in the workplace were no longer unusual, and wanted to “power dress” to show that they were the equals of men at the office.

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Many women’s outfits had velcro on the inside of the shoulder where various sized shoulder pads could be attached. Leotards and Dance wear: Leotards had been a fashion trend since the early 1970s, when were first used to add colour and texture under the “layered look” popular in the middle of that decade.

By the end of the decade leotards made from shiny spandex had become the standard feminine fashion of the “disco era”, partly for their form-fitting quality and the fact that they allowed flexibility and ease of movement. With the arrival of the aerobics craze of the early 1980s the classic leotard moved from the dance floor to the gym, accompanied by matching tights, Leg warmers and elastic headbands. Leotards of the early 1980s boasted bright stripes, polka dots, and even elastic belts.

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These Memorable Trends From The '80s & '90s Are Everywhere Right Now

Get ready for a walk down memory lane.

The fashion world has a thing for nostalgia . Many of today’s trends are reinterpretations — if not outright replications — of styles that were popular in the 1980s and 1990s . Those oversized shoulders, puff-sleeve blouses, prairie dresses, and pleated trousers that everyone is wearing right now? They're all straight out of the ‘80s playbook. Evidence of the current obsession with all things ‘90s is even more extensive: Square-toe shoes, slip dresses, bike shorts, baguette bags , and tiny sunglasses are just a few of the '80s and '90s fashion trends that have made a triumphant return in recent seasons. If you think you’re innovative for rocking a claw hair clip, loose braided pieces at the front of your face, or thick socks with sneakers and leggings, I’m sorry to tell you, but your mom probably did it first (and might still have some of her old goodies on hand).

If you dig a little deeper through the archive of celebrity looks, runway moments, and your own personal style memories, there are plenty of old-school revivals that are ripe for a comeback. From close-fitting tailored vests to stirrup pants , leather fisherman sandals, and chunky gold pearl earrings, certain vintage looks haven’t yet been resurrected to the modern mainstream, but totally should (and most likely will soon enough). Keep scrolling to get ahead of the curve and rediscover some of these pre-Y2K styles that you completely forgot you loved.

We only include products that have been independently selected by TZR's editorial team. However, we may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

Bike Shorts

Back in the ‘80s, trendsetter Princess Diana put bike shorts on the map with her iconic sporty ensembles featuring the bottoms. The athletic shorts made an unexpected return a few summers ago, and they’ve remained a wardrobe staple ever since.

Puff Sleeves

Puff-sleeve blouses were one of the must-have silhouettes of the ‘80s, according to Princess Diana and actors like Melanie Griffith (shown above in Working Girl) . The romantic style has become a runway staple over the past few years, thanks to designers like Saint Laurent and Ulla Johnson.

Boxy Blazers

Thanks to shoulder pads, blazers in the ‘80s had a boxy shape to them (above, an image from the 1988 teen movie Heathers for proof). Now, browse through luxury retailers like Net-A-Porter and Farfetch, and you’ll spot a slew of boxy blazers from fashion girl-favorite brands. Pro tip: If you’re yearning for a style straight out of the decade, you’ll probably be able to snag a piece from a local thrift shop.

Slip Dresses

A slew of A-list celebrities opted for slip dresses on the red carpet in the ‘90s — just look to Halle Berry at the 70th Annual Academy Awards. On the runways, Kate Moss’ slip dress during the Marc Jacobs Spring/Summer 1997 show further proved the silhouette’s popularity. While they might have been worn for fancier occasions back in the day, today, slip dresses are considered more of an everyday style. Pair the pieces with white sneakers and a casual denim jacket for a daytime look.

Platform Shoes

Blame the Spice Girls for the ‘90s platform craze . Above, Emma Bunton (aka Baby Spice) wore a pair of white platform heels for the music video On Top of the World in 1998. Today, brands like Notaledo, Simon Miller, and Miu Miu have helped bring the funky style back.

Sweater Vests

If there’s one nostalgic fashion trend the industry can’t seem to get enough of right now, it’s sweater vests . In the ‘90s, the knit was worn by everyone from Tina Turner to Brooke Shields. As of late, influencers and celebrities alike are deeming the style cool again.

From Michelle Pfeiffer in One Fine Day to Rachel Green in Friends, claw clips were an accessory staple worn on-screen back in the ‘90s. Over the past year, the model set, including the likes of Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid, have worn hair clips in multiple street-style looks.

Pastel Metallic Leather

With leather returning to the fashion landscape in such a big way lately, it’s only a matter of time before the frosted pastel iterations from the ‘90s show up on the scene. If you’re looking to try out the look, labels like The Attico and L’AGENCE have you covered.

Scrunched Socks & Sneakers

Sporty sneakers made their return seasons ago, but this particular way of wearing them was huge in the ‘80s and early ‘90s, and something you haven’t seen enough of in the last few years.

Chunky Pearl Earrings

Princess Diana is the ultimate style icon of the ‘80s and ‘90s, and her signature chunky gold and pearl studs are ripe for a resurgence, especially in light of the recent popularity of chunky gold jewelry and polished pearl pieces.

Tailored Vests

If you’re looking for a style that’s more snug compared to your boxy blazers, consider scooping up a menswear-inspired vest. The silhouettes are more form-fitting and tailored, such that one could easily be worn alone as a top when not layered over a turtleneck or prim bow blouse.

Fisherman Sandals

You probably best remember this style as it was done by Dr. Martens — all chunky-soled and well-worn. After tapping dry the square-toe and ultra-strappy looks over the last year or two, woven leather fisherman styles seem like the logical choice for the next ‘90s sandal obsession .

Sheer Black Pantyhose

Most would agree to keep flesh-colored stockings a thing of the past, but sheer black tights might be worth reviving. Once a staple with skirt suits, dresses, and even more casual styles (Rachel Green wore them with everything from mini skirts and LBDs, to fitted shorts and her coffeehouse apron), there’s a sultry vibe they add that feels more stylized than bare legs but less covered-up and gamine than opaque tights.

Sailor Collars

Consider this the next stage in the evolution of vintage necklines, following the recently trendy prairie style. Instead of ruffled yokes and frilly shoulders, this type of collar is simpler, often squared off, with a distinctly nautical vibe.

Statement Belts

Minimalism has its time and place, but we’re seeing maximalist motifs creep in more and more — especially when it comes to accessories. Big statement cinchers and chunky chain link belts are the perfect options for adding extra oomph around the waist of that sleek menswear blazer or those high-rise slouchy slacks.

The fabric favored for wedding gowns and prom dresses in the 1980s got a bad rap in the decades since, but there’s more to taffeta than those stiff, shiny dresses that make an appearance in your family photo albums. Maxi skirts, tent dresses, and puff-sleeve styles are all currently popular silhouettes that would work well in a voluminous textile like taffeta.

We’ve seen bucket hats make a comeback, but where are the berets ? The equally iconic headwear style is an elegant and sophisticated alternative to the bucket, and infinitely more suited to fall and winter wear.

Stirrup Pants

Sometimes it’s the simplest detail that makes a style feel of a particular era. A normal pair of leggings? Nothing special. But add a stirrup strap at the bottom , and suddenly we’re back in an ‘80s state of mind.

Maxi Skirts

Long, straight skirts could be the next ‘90s minimalist obsession. Keep an eye out for column-style maxis in solid fabrics or small-scale prints, featuring a slit along the side or back seam.

Polo Shirts

Polo tops and rugby shirts are defining elements of retro sportswear. Nail the look in a collared knit that’s classic and country club-esque, in a bold solid hue, vintage-inspired argyle, or blocky stripe.

Bold Buttons

This small-detail trend is on the verge of blowing up — just look at the Balmain and Gucci runways for proof. Everything from sharp blazers to tweed jackets, tailored dresses, and cardigans are going glam with big shiny buttons along the plackets and cuffs.

Sequins went out of vogue when a more simplistic aesthetic took rise, but the return of everything ‘80s means a renewed appreciation for a bit of flashy glitz. Give your going-out attire the glamour it’s been missing with a sparkly jacket or bedazzled frock.

Big Bow Accents

Nothing conjures a throwback vibe quite like a well-placed oversized bow — be it on the shoulder or waist of a party dress, atop a pair of statement heels, or worn as a big, bold hair accessory.

Pleated Jeans

Move over, mom jeans. The next generation of vintage jeans is going to be blouson pleated denim. Whether light wash or dark rinse, peg-legged or wide and baggy, pick a pair with darts at the waistband to get a jump on this inevitable fashion revival.

‘90s schoolgirl style wouldn’t be complete without a pair of preppy knee-socks. They’re an ideal match for the chunky loafers and platform Mary Janes that every fashion girl is wearing this season.

This article was originally published on Oct. 20, 2019

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80’s Fashion For Men – Timeless Outfits And Styles

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When historians look back on turn-of-the-millennia style, they’ll mark the last few years as the point went things got fuzzy, when the pace at which menswear trends cycle in, then out, then are reappropriated, has accelerated into an indistinguishable blur. Blame the internet, blame irony, but it used to be that a look spent two decades in the wilderness before it was re-evaluated. Now, everything’s up for grabs all the time.

80s Fashion For Men

The 80s were a pivotal time in men’s fashion. Bright colors, bold accessories and big hair were all the rage and created the signature 1980s look we think of today.

Here are some of the main 80s men’s fashion trends to give you an idea of what people were wearing around town 40 odd years ago.

80s Workout Clothes For Men

When people think of the 80s, workout clothes are generally the first thing to pop into mind. We’re talking technicolor windbreakers, short shorts, singlets and most importantly: the tracksuit. This is also around the time we see men wearing bigger, dad style sneakers.

80s Casual Wear For Men

Casual wear for men in the 80s is pretty much everything you see in the hallways of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off: cuffed jeans or khakis, cardigans, plain t-shirts, denim or bomber jackets and loafers. Sweaters and leather jackets were also popular for men’s outerwear… Extra points for vintage sports jerseys (Cameron, we’re looking at you) and parachute pants.

80s Formal Wear For Men

1980s formal wear for men was categorized by oversized blazers (typically in a bright or pastel color), pinstripe suits, and how to wear suspenders with a tie. One aspect of 80s formal wear that sets this decade apart is that even nicer suits were often paired with a simple t-shirt or turtleneck, rather than a button down.

80s Hip Hop Fashion For Men

On the other end of the spectrum, we have 80s hip hop style, which was all the rage at this time. Think of this as the original streetwear. 1980s hip hop style for men saw lots of large trousers (though nothing too baggy, that was the 90s), chunky gold chains, white sneakers and sports caps. 80s rap groups like N.W.A. and Run-D.M.C. became poster children for hip hop style, which has since been replicated through the years.

80s Rocker Fashion For Men

Rock was all the rage in the 1980s and so was leather. Aside from black eyeliner and long hair, 80s rockers were known for leather biker jackets, leather pants, anything (and all things) studded and combat boots. Men also started wearing headbands across their foreheads in this 80s style (thanks, Bon Jovi).

On the other hand, classic rock style worn by the likes of Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty was more in line with men’s casual style of the decade with lots of denim and t-shirts (though the headband held true).

80s Summer Style For Men

Ahh, nothing like a hot day in the 80s, which gave meaning to the term “suns out, guns out”. Men during summer in the 1980s wore short shorts and tank tops, polo shirts, pastel suits, and finished the look with either aviators or Wayfarers. Don’t forget the white calf socks and boat shoes, which are staples of 80s outfits in the summer. Parachute pants in bright colors were also all the rage during hotter months for men.

What Is 80s Fashion For Men Today?

If you’re looking for quick tips when it comes to 80s fashion for men, these are the main staples of the decade and how to style them today.

“Ask your stylist for a shattered bob with perimeter length layers,” says Robinson. “For the ultimate version, don’t wash it too often. To style after washing, apply salt spray and dry until it’s still a bit damp, with the hairdryer pointing top to bottom so as to dry flat.” Work through a little matte paste with your fingertips until you get that authentic Cobain stringiness, then tie your check shirt around your waist and forget about how your hair looks.

The Sportswear

The 1980s was the year leisurewear first went mainstream, driven by the explosion of gyms, fitness videos and a growing sense that the body inside was at least as important as the clothes that covered it up. Not so different from today.

After the heady days of #menswear, athleisure and its many offshoots, suits ended up at the back of most wardrobes. But the 1980s was dominated by tailoring, of the dominant sort, which means right now’s ripe for dusting off the two-piece. Although if all you’ve got hanging up is the kind of skinny suit that was de rigueur a few years ago, you’ll need to update your silhouette.

“The oversized blazer trend feels very emblematic of the 1980s,” says Chilvers, who points to the countless brands and designers channeling Richard Gere in American Gigolo for their latest collections.

You don’t necessarily need to go high-end, but it’s a trend that’s worth investing in. “It looks set to have a few seasons in it,” says Chilvers, “and once you get your head around it, it’s not actually that hard to wear.

Chilvers’ advice? Just think of it like a big coat. “You can layer a knit underneath. It looks good with jeans or just a pair of plain tailored trousers. You can whack a football scarf over it, finish with basic sneakers or heavy soled plain shoes. Basically, don’t overthink it.”

It was long a style rule that short-sleeve shirts were for lorry drivers, and short-sleeve, tropical-print shirts were for your weird uncle Dave. But then along came Prada, and reinvented the Magnum P.I. and ‘Club Tropicana’ favourite, by digging back into its 1950s roots.

Take the same less-is-more approach with colours; dark bases with an accent or two, ideally in colours you’d be comfortable wearing in a block. Avoid at all costs the neons so beloved in the actual ’80s – Screech Powers is on no mood boards.

Ripped jeans or heavy washes will tip things into post-punk, particularly if you throw one of those tent-like blazers on top – the top-heavy silhouette was an ’80s classic. “If in doubt, see Jeff Goldblum,” says Brine. “In the ’80s and today.”

Jocks & Nerds deputy editor Tom Banham is an outerwear addict with bylines in GQ , Men’s Health and Mr Porter. He’s fascinated by the collision of high fashion and streetwear, but also knows his way around a soft-shouldered blazer. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter at @banham_tom

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The 80's fashion era.

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                          The Fashion Era I chose to write about is the 80's. This was a time when it was fashionable to have the big hair, and crazy outfits that clashed but looked acceptable. I chose the 80's because it is a personal favorite of mine. I wish I were a teenager in the 80's because the trends then were funky and fun. .              The styles of the 80's are very distinct from any other era because this was the only time when "as much as you can is more" as opposed to "less is more". The more bracelets you could fit on your arm, the more hairspray you use to get your hair up, the more eye shadow you could get over your eyes, and the more lace you could get on your clothing was fashionable. Now as little makeup as possible, sleek hair, and a little bit of jewelry is fashionable. The 80's were very exaggerated in their styles; huge holes in the knee of jeans, big ruffles, neon colors, and high top sneakers are among many outrageous fashions. The fabrics used in the 80's wasn't much different from the fabrics used today except that a lot of lace was used in the 80's and now lace is mainly for lingerie. All clothes were mass-produced, but most often the customer would make alterations to their clothing to make it as funky as desired. Hand made garments were just as acceptable as designers. .              The fashions of the 80's fit into people's lifestyles because they both can be described by one word; crazy! Society was outrageous and was accepting of people's differences more than any other previous era. The only event that had a big impact in the 80's was the explosion of The Challenger shuttle. Everybody remembers where they were and how they felt when they heard about this significant event in 1986. The fashion industry wasn't really affected by this event, but my guess would be that maybe astronaut suits became popular that following Halloween. The music of choice in this era was punk rock and pop. Madonna was a driving influence of fashion in the 80's.

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Essays Related to The 80's Fashion Era

1. the odd couple (female version).

The number of divorces in the 80s doubled from the number of divorces in the 60s and 70s. ... Renee, a wise cracking fashion plate with an edge only the 80's could deliver. Fashion in the 80s consisted of: off-shoulder shirts, crop tops, thick belts, long T-shirts, mini skirts and rock band shirts. ... Big hair, denim, tights, and other fashion statements were the height of cool during the decade of the 1980s. ... It was an era of fashion that went out of style with the decade and may never return except for appearances at 80s dances....

• Word Count: 1093
• Approx Pages: 4

2. From Flappers to Chaps: Youth Dance Revolution

Rock rolled into the 80s where hip hop dance became popular. ... There is an overlapping theme in these eras, one of the youth wanting to take their bodies back from a society they felt they had no control over. ... Rock & roll ultimately took the place of the dance hall music in the 50s, and was widespread by the 80s. ... The 80s arrived with a myriad of new performers willing to use their bodies to express the feelings of this decade. ... She is well known for her ability to start new fads, from dancing to fashion. ...

• Word Count: 1034
• Grade Level: High School

3. Generation Ecstacy

Setting these timeless traits in the context of the up-to-the-minute technology that made rave emblematic of its era-the fragmentary, fast-forward aesthetic, the flexible production and distribution network, the avoidance of personality and narrative in favor of sensation-he comes up with a portrait of hi-tech millennium that resonates well beyond its subculture confines. ... The drug-tech interface gives "Generation Ecstasy" a narrative backbone that applies again and again, across continents and cultures from Texas, where Ecstasy culture first reared its head in the mid-'80s, to Sco...

• Word Count: 695
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: Graduate

4. Generation Gap

The parents of today's youth marched for civil rights, protested against the Vietnam War, and began flocking to the polls for Democratic Party candidates in the 1970s and 80s. ... Older blacks often complain of younger blacks' outlook on social values, clothing, hair, music, lifestyle, family, race and career, while young blacks often see their parents' views as old-fashioned and say they feel misunderstood by seniors who lecture more than listen. Experts point out that older and younger African Americans' attitudes are a product of their respective eras. ...

• Word Count: 3160
• Approx Pages: 13

5. The World is Flat vs. World 3.0

The European exploration of overseas, the spread of knowledge and fashion from one country to the next are all examples of how humans have found simple ways of sharing not only information but culture. ... This new era of global communication was one that Friedman saw as progress towards intercultural communication and understanding. ... If you look back to the late 80s and early 90's the resources and capacities we have today is leaps and bounds above what we had achieved up to that point. ...

• Word Count: 3129
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

6. Australian National Cinema

It`s freaks and monsters [...] confirmed the unflattering image of Australia as an uncultured, untutored, unsophisticated place, full of bumpkins and possibly inbred wolf-wits.7) The Australian Ocker films' of the the early 70`s such as "The Adventures of Barry McKenzie- and "Alvin Purple- confirm this distasteful cinematic era. The whole ocker film era was not a basless celebration of non-culture, but rather a reflection of the de-dominization process occuring at the time. ... They demonstrated just who Australians were by providing a [...] culturally different foil, showing who they...

• Word Count: 7147
• Approx Pages: 29

7. Libertarianism

Despite the fact the since 1968 Americans have elected the every presidential candidate that pledged to support a smaller government, the "federal budget has risen from $178 billion to 1.6 trillion." (6:191) Much of the government we see today began nearly seventy years as black Thursday in October of 1929 dawned not only the collapse of our economy a new modern era of government regulation. ...

• Word Count: 7038
• Approx Pages: 28

8. Libertarianism

• Word Count: 7034

Essays About Fashion: Top 5 Examples and 9 Prompts

If you are writing essays about fashion, check out our guide of helpful examples and exciting writing prompts to get started.

Fashion is individuals’ way of expressing their personalities. They do this through clothes and accessories that display their tastes and preferences. There are different fashion styles and trends, and anyone can choose anything they want to follow. Additionally, fashion has various benefits, such as boosting self-confidence, lightening moods, and developing creativity. Our fashion choices also help us send messages and present our beliefs. Thus, fashion can also be political .

Below are five essay examples and nine writing prompts to help you create an eye-catching essay about fashion:

5 Top Essay Examples

1. why fashion is important by george k., 2. fashion: an important part of life by ankita yadav, 3. fashion as communication by eunice summers, 4. fashion 2022 by edudwar, 5. the effect of fashion on teenagers in school by anonymous on newyorkessays.com, 1. fashion trends and women, 2. fashion evolution, 3. fashion and starting a business, 4. effects of fashion on society, 5. the best fashion styles for men, 6. fashion trends in different countries , 7. careers in the fashion industry, 8. cultural fashion vs. modern fashion, 9. the best and worst of fashion trends.

“The clothes we wear has become more than merely a way to cover our nakedness; instead it has also become one of the primary ways in which people express themselves.”

George K explains that fashion separates individuals from the rest. A person can introduce himself to others for who and what he is through style choices. Further, the author expounds on how fashion is a very competitive industry that depends on one’s search for identity. The author also points out that every person is unique and thus needs a distinct style to fit them. However, because of constant peer pressure and criticism, an individual’s fashion picks can’t be entirely their own. Ultimately, George K reminds the reader that it’s not just the clothes but how individuals wear and feel in them.

“…if we can do something then it is choosing the right stuff like entertainment, adventure, fashion, etc. All these things can make us happy and are also an important part of life. Fashion always attracts and it is available for all,”

Yadav considers how fashion originated from people’s traditions and cultures and became what it is today through individuals adopting each style and making it their own. In the following sections of the essay, she defines fashion and lists its importance, including how it developed new employment options and how styles speak for the wearer. 

In her conclusion, she encourages everyone to choose their styles and not to mind their age. Fashion helps everyone live life to the fullest.

“Fashion is an industry based on creating a need where there is none and nowadays, due to the current recession, I can understand that fashion may not be people’s biggest concern. But we cannot qualify it as ‘trivial’ since we are surrounded by it; each new generation of customers is highly exposed to commercial influences.”

Summers gives her opinion about the book “Fashion as Communication” by Malcolm Barnard . She identifies points in the work and shares her thoughts on them. The first point being those working in the fashion industry aren’t smart. As a Fashion Marketing student, Summers vehemently disagrees with this statement and recounts her experiences to counter it. She continues to analyze Barnard’s other arguments and agrees with some of them. Summers ends her essay by highlighting that fashion is too essential in modern culture and economic organization for it to be considered “trivial.”

“…the youth cares more about what they wear and how they look which could affect their status in their peer group and meddle with their mental health. Following trends and doing what everyone is doing like a sheep is never a good idea. Fashion is there to reflect your personal style, not copying what other people think is trendy.”

User Edudwar reminds people that fashion is not simply following what’s currently trendy. Fashion is there to give people the chance to show off their individualism and personalities and not present a fake version of themselves to be accepted by society. Additionally, he mentions that youth nowadays are more sensitive to what people think of them, so some will always do everything to follow trends, even if they’re not presentable or appropriate.

“Youths of the present times have indulged themselves in so much fashion that they do not receive sufficient time for other work… The time spent on studies is being used in watching TV programmes, reading fashion articles, or even finding the recent trendy outfits on the Internet.”

The essay discusses the real effects of fashion on today’s youth. The author focuses on kids zeroing in on finding the latest style instead of caring for their studies that directly affect their future. The essay also delves into how youths of yesterday had ambitions and goals in life compared to today’s youths, who prefer to have fun rather than study hard.

See our best essay writing tips to help you write an attractive, attention-grabbing essay.

9 Writing Prompts For Essays About Fashion

To assist you with your essay, we’ve compiled nine exciting writing prompts you can use:

Some women follow fashion trends religiously. They are also more conscious of their physical appearance. Some even go to the extreme and do plastic surgeries to look better in clothes. In your essay, discuss what you think these trends do to women’s perception of their worth and beauty. Add which trends you believe are unhealthy and why there’s more societal pressure for women to be fashionable.

Each era had its styles that directly resulted from that time’s circumstances. Make a timeline of how fashion evolved and the factors that influenced them. At the end of your essay, pick what you think is the best fashion era and explain why.

For this prompt, include the relevant things a future fashion clothing boutique owner should bear in mind. For instance, they should always be on top of the fashion trends and know how to balance demand and costs. Then, find a boutique owner and interview them about their experience to make your essay more fun to read.

Tackle what makes people choose the clothes they wear daily. Some prefer their fashion to display their personalities while others merely follow what they think is popular. To make your essay more interesting, you can do a simple experiment: Go out in public on two occasions: while wearing your fashion picks and donning the latest fashionable clothes. Then, add your findings and how people reacted to you.

Fashion for men is different from women. Although most brands dedicate their line to women, men also deserve to know what makes them look fashionable; this essay lists styles that are excellent for men depending on the setting and event. 

What could be considered fashionable in one country can be seen as disrespectful in another. For this prompt, compile fashion trends many do but are unacceptable in other places. Reasons why may include religion or tradition. Use research data and cite reliable sourcing for a compelling piece.

In this essay, identify the career opportunities available in the fashion industry, including the steps to get there. Next, list the different job roles within fashion, and describe the responsibilities for each. Then, add tips on succeeding in that job and standing out from the rest. For an intriguing essay, conduct interviews with professionals within the industry and include this in your piece.

Our ancestors’ culture greatly influenced today’s fashion. Meanwhile, modern styles are those that the current generation uses. Write an essay about cultural and contemporary fashion’s differences, similarities, advantages, and disadvantages. 

Fashion trends come and go. However, not all popular fashion is pleasing to the eyes. For this essay, compile a list of what is, in your opinion, the best and worst fashion trends. Then, describe why you have formed these opinions and describe the details of each outfit.

Are you looking for your next essay subject? Check out our list of the best writing topics for students .

Maria Caballero is a freelance writer who has been writing since high school. She believes that to be a writer doesn't only refer to excellent syntax and semantics but also knowing how to weave words together to communicate to any reader effectively.

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Essay on Fashion for Students and Children

500+ words essay on fashion.

Fashion refers to anything that becomes a rage among the masses. Fashion is a popular aesthetic expression. Most Noteworthy, it is something that is in vogue. Fashion appears in clothing, footwear, accessories, makeup, hairstyles, lifestyle, and body proportions. Furthermore, Fashion is an industry-supported expression. In the contemporary world, people take fashion very seriously. Fashion is something that has permeated every aspect of human culture.

History of Fashion

The origin of Fashion is from the year 1826. Probably everyone believes Charles Frederick to be the first fashion designer of the world. He also established the first Fashion house in Paris. Consequently, he began the tradition of Fashion houses. Furthermore, he gave advice to customers on what clothing would suit them. He was prominent form 1826 to 1895.

During this period, many design houses hired artists. Furthermore, the job of these artists was to develop innovative designs for garments. The clients would examine many different patterns. Then they would pick the one they like. Consequently, a tradition began of presenting patterns to customers and then stitching them.

At the beginning of the 20th century, new developments in Fashion took place. These developments certainly began in Paris first. Then they spread in other parts of the world. Consequently, new designs first came into existence in France. From Paris, they went to other parts of the world. Hence, Paris became the Fashion capital of the world. Also, Fashion in this era was ‘haute couture’. This Fashion design was exclusively for individuals.

In the mid-20th century, a change took place. Now Fashion garments underwent mass production. There was a significant increase in the rate of production of Fashion garments. As a result, more and more people became involved with Fashion garments. By the end of the 20th century, a sense of Fashion awareness was very strong. Now people began to choose clothes based on their own style preference. Hence, people began to create their own trends instead of relying on existing trends.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Fashion Trend

Political influences certainly play a major role in influencing Fashion. Many politicians become fashion symbols. Notable examples are First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy and Princess Diana. Also, political revolutions make a huge impact on the Fashion trend. For example, in 1960’s America, liberal clothing styles became popular among the younger generation. This was due to the Liberal revolution.

Another significant factor which influences Fashion trend is technology. There certainly has been a rapid growth of technology in the Fashion industry. For example, wearable technology has become a popular Fashion trend. Furthermore, 3D printing technology and the internet have also made an impact on Fashion.

Social influences are probably the strongest influences on the Fashion trend. Many music stars strongly influence Fashion choice. For example, wearing hoodies became famous due to rap musicians. Furthermore, movie and television actors create a big impact on Fashion. Many youngsters love to emulate the Fashion sense of their favourite celebrity.

To sum it up, Fashion certainly has become a part and parcel of human life. It certainly is a force that is here to stay. Most noteworthy, Fashion has immersed every place on Earth.

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Lifestylogy

80s Fashion Trends That Should Never Come Back

Posted: May 11, 2024 | Last updated: May 11, 2024

The 1980s were a decade known for its distinctive and adventurous fashion choices, which are still talked about and occasionally revisited today. From bold neon colors and oversized shoulder pads to mullets and leg warmers, the era embraced a spirit of extravagance and self-expression through clothing. However, not all fashion trends from the 1980s have stood the test of time or are welcomed by modern sartorial standards. In this exploration, we delve into 25 fashion trends from the ’80s that, while memorable, are perhaps better left in the past, highlighting the reasons why these particular styles might not find the same favor in today’s fashion landscape.

Shoulder Pads

Shoulder pads were originally designed to give the wearer a broader, more imposing silhouette, symbolizing power and confidence. However, they often ended up looking disproportionate, giving an almost cartoonish appearance to everyday outfits. In professional settings, these oversized pads made suits and blazers look less sleek and more cumbersome. Despite their historical significance in fashion, shoulder pads are a trend that might be too dramatic for modern tastes, best left to the revival of vintage or themed events.

The mullet hairstyle, famously described as “business in the front, party in the back,” is one of the most iconic yet controversial fashion choices of the 1980s. It represented a rebellious, carefree attitude, especially popular among rock stars and celebrities. However, the mullet has struggled to shed its association with poor taste and stylistic faux pas over the decades. As a result, it remains a hairstyle that, despite occasional ironic revivals, many would agree should stay in the past.

Neon Spandex

Neon spandex was a hallmark of ’80s aerobics and dance scenes, celebrated for its vibrant colors and stretchy comfort which made it perfect for high-energy activities. While it captured the lively spirit of the decade, its glaring hues can be overwhelming and difficult to incorporate into more understated, contemporary wardrobes. Neon spandex also typifies the more is better philosophy of the ’80s, which contrasts sharply with today’s minimalist fashion trends. While perfect for a nostalgic workout ensemble, neon spandex is generally too bold for everyday wear.

Fanny Packs

Fanny packs were praised for their practicality, allowing users to carry essentials without using their hands, a true innovation for convenience. However, they were often worn without much consideration for style, typically disrupting the aesthetic flow of an outfit. Despite a brief resurgence as a retro accessory in modern fashion, the fanny pack often remains more functional than fashionable. It is one of those accessories that, while useful, often clashes with a refined or sophisticated look.

Leg Warmers

Leg warmers became a fashion staple in the 1980s, originally worn by dancers to keep their muscles warm and prevent cramping. The trend quickly spread to the general public, becoming a common accessory in everyday wear, particularly among young women. Although they added a playful touch to outfits, leg warmers are often seen as impractical and out of place outside of dance studios today. Their bulky nature can also disrupt the sleek lines of modern clothing styles, making them a trend best left in the dance-centric 1980s.

Acid-Washed Jeans

Acid-washed jeans epitomized ’80s denim fashion with their distinctive pale color and worn look, achieved through chemical processing. This style was synonymous with rock and roll aesthetics, embraced by those looking to make a bold fashion statement. However, the process of acid washing is not environmentally friendly, making these jeans less appealing in today’s eco-conscious fashion climate. Although they represent a nostalgic era of fashion, the overwhelming style and environmental concerns make acid-washed jeans a trend that may be best remembered rather than revived.

Jellies Shoes

Jellies shoes, made entirely of plastic, were a popular choice for footwear in the ’80s due to their colorful, translucent, and often sparkly appearance. These shoes were inexpensive and fashionable for children and teens, aligning with the playful, vibrant aesthetic of the decade. However, they offered little in terms of support and comfort, often resulting in blisters and sweaty feet. Given their impracticality and the modern focus on sustainable materials, jelly shoes are a trend that perhaps should not return.

The rat tail hairstyle involves growing a small, thin section of hair at the nape and leaving it significantly longer than the rest of the hair. This look became a peculiar and divisive style choice in the ’80s, often seen as a statement of rebellion among youths. It has rarely been seen as a mainstream trend since, largely because it is considered unsophisticated and difficult to pull off elegantly. As a trend with limited aesthetic or practical value, the rat tail is an ’80s relic that might be best left in the annals of fashion history.

Parachute Pants

Parachute pants are characterized by their lightweight, synthetic material and were originally designed for breakdancing due to their durability and flexibility. These pants became iconic with their baggy silhouette and an abundance of zippers and pockets, which added a futuristic touch. However, their practicality outside of dance performance is minimal, and their overly casual look doesn’t mesh well with modern, streamlined fashion sensibilities. While they hold nostalgic value, parachute pants are another ’80s trend that serves more as a cultural footnote than a practical clothing choice.

Members Only Jackets

Members Only jackets became a symbol of cool and exclusivity in the 1980s, known for their unique shoulder strap and ribbed trim. These lightweight jackets were a status symbol, often seen in a variety of bold colors and embraced by celebrities and everyday people alike. However, their distinctive style has not aged well, often considered too retro for contemporary fashion which favors subtler, more versatile designs. While they occasionally pop up in vintage collections or at theme parties, Members Only jackets are a trend that lacks the timeless appeal necessary for a comeback.

Perms on Men

Perms on men, which involve chemically setting the hair into curls, became increasingly popular during the 1980s as part of the larger trend towards more voluminous, styled hair. Celebrities and musicians often sported this look, which added to its appeal among the general populace seeking to emulate their idols. However, the trend has largely fallen out of favor, as modern hairstyles lean towards natural textures and easier maintenance. Given the damage perms can do to hair, coupled with changing aesthetic preferences, it’s a style that many men are unlikely to revisit.

Harem Pants

Harem pants, known for their loose fit and dropped crotch, became popular in the ’80s as part of the street dance scene, offering freedom of movement and a break from conventional fashion norms. Their unique silhouette, however, makes them difficult to integrate into modern, tailored wardrobes that favor a more fitted look. While they can still be found in niche fashion and for dance, they often carry a casual, almost costume-like vibe that is not versatile for everyday wear. As a result, harem pants remain more of a niche item rather than a mainstream fashion staple.

Popped Collars

Popping the collar on polo shirts became a trend symbolizing coolness and nonchalance in the ’80s, often associated with preppy or elitist cultures. This trend involved layering several polos with collars turned up, adding a splash of color and a sense of attitude to an outfit. However, today, popped collars can come off as outdated and overly pretentious, clashing with the more democratic and understated fashion ideals of the current era. While still seen occasionally, this trend is typically viewed as a throwback rather than a serious style choice.

Sweater Vests

Sweater vests in the ’80s often featured loud, bold patterns and were a popular layering piece over shirts for a preppy look. These vests added an element of texture and color to outfits, providing a distinctive, if somewhat nerdy, style statement. However, the bulkiness and often garish designs of ’80s sweater vests can be challenging to pull off in today’s sleek, minimalist fashion scene. While they have seen some resurgence, the specific styles of the ’80s remain largely out of favor, reserved for themed events or ironic fashion statements.

Scrunchies, large fabric-covered hair ties, became popular in the ’80s for their ability to hold voluminous hairstyles without causing damage. They became a fashion statement in their own right, often matching or contrasting with the outfit. While they have experienced a minor comeback among younger generations, in professional settings, scrunchies can still be seen as a less sophisticated option compared to other hair accessories. Their casual and youthful vibe makes them more suited for casual outings rather than formal environments.

Neon Windbreakers

Neon windbreakers were a staple of ’80s outerwear, reflecting the decade’s love for bright colors and bold statements. These jackets were often made from synthetic materials and featured a combination of vibrant hues and geometric patterns. While they have made occasional comebacks in fashion, particularly in streetwear, their loud colors and shiny textures are not for everyone and can be difficult to incorporate into a daily wardrobe. Neon windbreakers epitomize a very specific time in fashion history and are often better suited for retro-themed occasions than everyday use.

Lace Gloves

Lace gloves became highly popular in the ’80s, largely due to their association with icons like Madonna, who sported them as part of her edgy, trend-setting style. These delicate accessories added a touch of feminine elegance and rebellion to many outfits, often worn with more casual or even risqué attire. However, in modern fashion, lace gloves are typically reserved for costumes or very formal occasions. Their ornate and delicate nature makes them impractical for everyday use and a bit too theatrical for contemporary casual wear.

Big Plastic Earrings

In the 1980s, big plastic earrings in neon or pastel hues were essential accessories that complemented the vibrant fashion trends of the time. These oversized adornments matched the decade’s flair for drama and noticeable style statements. However, such large and often gaudy accessories can overshadow more refined contemporary looks, making them less suitable for today’s more muted fashion preferences. While they occasionally resurface in modern styles, big plastic earrings typically remain a nostalgic nod to a bygone era rather than a staple in current fashion.

Animal Print Everything

The ’80s saw an explosion in the popularity of animal prints, which were used on everything from clothing to accessories, often in overwhelming quantities. This trend was part of the decade’s maximalist approach to fashion, where more was definitely more. However, today, animal prints are best utilized in moderation, serving as an accent rather than the main focus of an outfit. The overuse of animal prints can quickly turn a look from chic to gaudy, which is why this trend should be approached with caution in contemporary fashion.

High-Waisted Mom Jeans

High-waisted mom jeans made a strong comeback, known for their comfort and retro appeal. In the ’80s, they were often worn excessively baggy, which, while trendy at the time, can be unflattering by modern fashion standards. These jeans have been refined in recent years to better fit contemporary styles, focusing on a more flattering silhouette that enhances rather than obscures the body’s shape. However, the original ’80s style, with its often excessively roomy fit and stark denim washes, is one that many fashion enthusiasts agree should stay in the past.

Puffy Sleeves

Puffy sleeves were another ’80s trend that added drama and volume to women’s fashion, often seen on dresses and blouses. These sleeves created a distinctive silhouette that made a bold fashion statement during their heyday. However, they can easily dominate an outfit, making it look dated and overly theatrical in a modern context. While puffy sleeves have seen some revival in recent fashion trends, the extreme versions from the ’80s are typically too overwhelming for current tastes, better suited for period pieces or costume parties.

Bodysuits with Snaps

Bodysuits with snaps at the crotch were a practical undergarment in the ’80s, designed to ensure a smooth, tucked-in look for layered outfits. These garments were essential for a sleek silhouette under high-waisted jeans or skirts. However, the snap closures could be uncomfortable, especially when sitting for long periods or during active use. While modern bodysuits continue to be popular for their streamlined appearance, the specific snap-closure style from the ’80s is less favored due to comfort issues.

Mesh Shirts

Mesh shirts, often worn at gyms or as bold streetwear, were part of the ’80s trend toward see-through, body-revealing clothing. These shirts allowed for significant airflow, making them popular in dance clubs and casual settings. However, their revealing nature means they’re not appropriate for all occasions, and they can be challenging to style without appearing too risqué. Mesh shirts remain a very specific choice in modern wardrobes, typically reserved for themed events or fashion-forward statements.

Track Suits in Neon Colors

Track suits in neon colors were a quintessential ’80s trend, offering both comfort and bold style in casual wear. These suits were often made from shiny synthetic materials, adding a futuristic touch to the athletic look. While they have seen a resurgence in recent years, particularly in retro and streetwear collections, the original neon versions can appear overly flashy and out of place in most contemporary settings. This trend captures a very specific nostalgic vibe but doesn’t necessarily translate well into the versatile, everyday wardrobes required today.

Oversized Spectacles

Oversized spectacles were all the rage in the ’80s, often featuring thick, colorful frames and large lenses. These glasses made a bold statement and were as much a fashion accessory as a necessity for those with vision impairments. However, the exaggerated size can overwhelm the face, and today’s eyewear trends lean towards more understated and refined designs. While still popular among those looking for a retro or eclectic look, oversized spectacles are a trend that may not fit well with modern minimalist aesthetic standards.

Reflecting on these iconic ’80s fashion trends brings a mix of nostalgia and amusement, reminding us of the era’s unique contribution to the fashion world. While some of these styles may still inspire the runway or streetwear with a touch of irony or nostalgia, the majority serve as reminders of the evolving nature of fashion and cultural tastes. As we look back, it’s clear that fashion is not just about clothing but about capturing the spirit of the times. Whether embraced or avoided, these trends from the 1980s ensure the decade remains unforgettable in the annals of style history.

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I Was Taught to Hate My Freckles. I Decided to Love Them Instead.

Here, Crystal Hana Kim chronicles the cultural complexities of embracing her spots

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

When I was a child, visiting family in Korea was a cause for unbridled excitement. That all changed one summer, when my grandmother took me and my cousin Sang-yoon to her local salon to get our hair permed. I was eager to match my cousin, whom I adored, mostly for the fact that she was older than me. At the salon, a slight woman bowed to my grandmother and surveyed us. She immediately gasped. “What happened to her face?” I turned to my cousin, curious, only to find that everyone was staring at me. “What’s wrong?” Alarm lifted my voice high.

“She’s American,” my grandmother said. “They don’t mind freckles over there.”

The hairdresser shook her head. “We have lightening creams. We can make her look like a true Korean.”

My cheeks turned hot in reaction to this stranger’s disapproving gaze. As my grandmother waved off the woman’s protests, I looked at my cousin, a “true” Korean who had never left the country. Her skin was spotless, unblemished. I studied the others in the room—strangers getting their hair clipped, streaked with white paste, pressed in foil, heated by helmets. All were clear-complexioned, unfreckled.

That afternoon, as my hair was coiled and clipped, I scorched with shame. All year long, I had been looking forward to this trip. I was tired of the taunting at school about my lunches, my eyes, my roasted-barley tea. In Korea, everyone would understand me intuitively, I thought. I had been excited to hear only my Korean name—Hana—and to slip on this other half of me.

After that day, I examined everyone’s faces intently. My mother and aunts wore thick foundation that smoothed over any blemish, even in the humid summer heat. My grandmother lamented her brown spots. Sang-yoon and her friends made sure to stay out of the sun. The currency of beauty infiltrated daily talk: “Look at that movie star,” my aunt would say, awed, and I would turn to see a spotless face. The message was clear: To have freckles was to be imperfect. To be imperfect was to be ugly. To be ugly was the worst thing that could happen to a girl, a woman.

This aversion to freckles wasn’t limited to Korea. When I returned to the United States, my favorite novel, Anne of Green Gables , took on a heavier weight. Red-haired, gangly-limbed Anne proudly claims she can dream her freckles away. Early on, she ponders, “Have you ever imagined what it must feel like to be divinely beautiful?” As an insecure preteen, I fixated on what was left unsaid. A few summers later, I discovered beauty stories in teen magazines. The instructions always started with full-coverage foundation. Blend until you have a smooth canvas. All over the country, girls were told to paint on masks, so hideous were their natural faces.

.css-1pfpin{font-family:NewParisTextBook,NewParisTextBook-roboto,NewParisTextBook-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-size:1.75rem;line-height:1.2;margin:0rem;padding-left:5rem;padding-right:5rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1pfpin{padding-left:2.5rem;padding-right:2.5rem;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1pfpin{font-size:2.5rem;line-height:1.2;}}.css-1pfpin b,.css-1pfpin strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-1pfpin em,.css-1pfpin i{font-style:normal;font-family:NewParisTextItalic,NewParisTextItalic-roboto,NewParisTextItalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;} ALL OVER the country , girls were TOLD to paint on MASKS, so hideous were their NATURAL faces.

As the years passed, I watched with alarm as my freckles spread. They refused to remain relegated to my nose and cheeks, slowly encroaching upon my eyelids and then my chin. In some places, the freckles amassed, fusing into a blob. Throughout the years, I would hear admonishments that my freckles were a flaw: “There are lightening creams, you know.” “Have you been wearing sunscreen?” “If only you could get them removed.”

By the time I was in college, my insecurity had morphed into a resentment of those who held me to this standard of beauty. I became defiant. When my mother casually claimed my freckles were ugly, I shook her off. So what if I didn’t look like a “true” Korean? So be it. I basked in the sun, calling on my speckles to create a constellation across my face.

One summer after college, at an outdoor food market in Brooklyn, a vendor pulled down his sunglasses as he handed me a hot dog covered in brisket. “Are your freckles real?”

“What do you mean?” I asked, laughing. “How could they not be?”

“There are so many. I thought maybe you drew them on. Don’t get me wrong,” he said, sliding into a compliment. “They make you stand out, not like the other Asian girls.” Was he negging me?

I was tempted to snark back. Yet in the back of my mind, a small voice wondered: Why would anyone want to draw on freckles when they were considered ugly?

I observed this proliferation of pro-freckle beauty products with bemusement. To expand our definition of beauty is a net positive. But a twinge inside me makes me hesitate: There’s a fine line between self-love and being manipulated by a market eager to churn out new products for our consumption. Is it really radical acceptance if you have to add on freckles to create the perfect “no-makeup makeup” look?

A year ago, as we were brushing our teeth in the bathroom, my then-two-year-old son noticed my freckles for the first time. “Why face dirty?” he asked, innocent and curious. How interesting, his word choice, the assumption of a flaw. He tried to wipe my cheek. “They’re freckles, and they don’t rub off. I think they’re beautiful,” I quickly added. He stopped, his finger on my chin. “Boo-tiful,” he agreed with a smile. How easy to create a new narrative.

I forgot about that moment entirely until last week, when he beckoned me to the mirror. “Umma! I look like you.” He pointed to himself with a grin. I bent down to see on his sweet, perfect cheek a brown freckle, announcing itself, proudly, hello.

Products we love to enhance (or fake) freckles:

Freck Beauty The Original Freckle Freck Noir

This fake freckle pen comes in a darker ink, so it can be used to create convincing spots on medium to deep skin tones.

Jason Wu Beauty Jason the Freckled Boy Faux Freckle

This freckle liner from designer Jason Wu contains rose water, so it’s also gentle on skin.

Tarte Freckle Pen

Tarte’s Freckle pen has a unique swirled applicator that makes applying and blending the freckles so easy. Plus, it’s available in three shades.

Crystal Hana Kim is the author of  The Stone Home  (2024) and  If You Leave Me (2018), which was named a best book of 2018 by over a dozen publications. She is the recipient of the 2022 National Book Foundation’s 5 Under 35 Award, nominated by Min Jin Lee. She is also a 2017 PEN/Robert J. Dau Short Story Prize winner. She is a contributing editor at  Apogee Journal  and lives in Brooklyn, New York with her family.

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Guest Essay

At the Met Gala, Celebrities Are Nearly Nude. Are We Not Aroused?

By Mireille Silcoff

Ms. Silcoff is a cultural critic and the author of the short story collection “Chez L’Arabe.”

Watching the red carpet at Monday night’s Met Gala, I couldn’t help but recall a prediction I’d heard from Emily Kirkpatrick, who writes the Substack newsletter “I <3 Mess.” She’d told me recently that, before the end of 2024, it’s possible that “someone is going to show up fully nude on a red carpet.”

That didn’t happen at this year’s gala, but it got very close, as Doja Cat — who appeared earlier this year at the Grammy Awards in what was called “ the most naked dress ever ” — presented at the Met Gala in a long, clinging, soaking wet, transparent and entirely revealing white T-shirt by the label Vetements.

Near-nudity is everywhere, at least on celebrities and the celebrity adjacent. Bianca Censori, Kanye West’s 29-year-old partner, wandered around Paris wearing a cropped jacket with sheer pantyhose and seemingly nothing on underneath, her modesty preserved only by the stockings’ single center seam. Julia Fox attended a fashion launch with three silver medallions covering her private parts under a long — and frequently parted — trench coat.

This nearly nude look is not, as one might imagine, evidence of an increasingly oversexed culture, but rather of a culture that’s increasingly over sex.

It seems we’re seeing more red-carpet skin at a moment when, for the first time in decades, America is quantifiably less randy, slouching through an era of undeniable sexual decline. Americans are having less sex, and the trend is most pronounced among young people, whose sexual activity has seriously waned. A 2021 U.C.L.A. study of California residents found that nearly 40 percent of the 18- to 30-year-olds it surveyed reported having no sexual partners in the prior year, up from 22 percent 10 years prior.

There are many theoretical explanations, from the addled overuse of phones and social media and the ubiquity of online porn to the fact that more young people live alone. Whatever the reason, it’s clear that one thing more people aren’t doing is doing it. And it’s probably not because people are masturbating more. Those numbers have remained relatively steady.

Among all this sexlessness, celebrities and attention seekers are stepping out in nearly nothing. Of course, skimpy outfits aren’t novel — nearly 25 years ago, Jennifer Lopez made red-carpet history in a Versace gown held on with body tape. But the new public nudity, rather than being an expression of an age-old desire to spark pleasure, feels like the product of a very new desire to drive engagement.

There’s always been a dance — often, a literal dance — between revealing skin and inciting arousal; titillation relies as much on what’s hidden as what’s revealed. But if the exposure of skin was once about performing for, or even powerfully co-opting, the problematic but omnipresent male gaze — think Marilyn Monroe’s billowing skirt over the sidewalk grate — the new public nudity is a bald attention play, enacted for the dispassionate gaze of paparazzi, who then feed these images to a desensitized public.

Maybe that’s why this new nudity has a strangely anhedonic feel to it; the outfits are technically revealing yet weirdly neutered. In the arms race for eyeballs, showing skin has been colonized by a desire for clicks, the only real currency in an attention economy. Nudity has finally been denuded of sex.

Some might see all this as progress or a sign of body positivity. But a notable aspect of the new sartorial nothingness is that no one seems to be enjoying it very much. In the Instagram comments sections underneath some of the more widely circulated photos of Ms. Censori, many commenters, seemingly from all genders, express exhaustion — less Wow! and more OK, just get some clothing, please . On the right-wing margins of the “trad wife” fringe, people have developed A.I.-based apps that specialize in putting clothing back on to photos of nearly naked women (disturbingly, it’s too often aprons). Even in the high fashion world — where visible breasts under a sheer shirt on a Parisian runway barely raise a ruffle — critics have become increasingly irritated at how a lack of coverage on a toned body is being substituted for well-cut clothes and actual style. Of a Saint Laurent show this winter, Vanessa Friedman of The Times noted plainly, “Enough with the boobs.”

I still agree with Ms. Kirkpatrick: A runway Lady Godiva is only a matter of time. But the beginnings of a backlash are possibly underway. Overall, the Met Gala seemed less nude than last year’s, as many of the most notable stars were so covered up as to be almost upholstered. Lil Nas X donned a silver bikini bottom at the gala last year; this year, he wore full-cut trousers and a long cocooning coat. Gigi Hadid, seen in a transparent bathing suit of a dress in 2023, this year wore a classically shaped Thom Browne frock that looked as if it were made of dozens of cricket-club blazers. Kim Kardashian wore a corset this year so cinched it looked perilous. But she also wore a sweater .

This collection of looks wasn’t exactly a triumph for bringing back the mystery. But at least it was, literally, not nothing.

Mireille Silcoff is a cultural critic and the author of the short story collection “Chez L’Arabe.”

Source photographs by Epoxydude, Francesco Carta fotografo and Kuzmik_A/Getty Images

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In photos: At least 83 dead as historic flooding hits southern Brazil

By Jintak Han | May 7, 2024

Record-breaking floods in Brazil’s southern Rio Grande do Sul state have killed at least 83 people over the past week, and another 111 were reported missing, local authorities said Monday.

Renan Mattos/Reuters

In the state capital, Porto Alegre, water levels of the Guaíba River peaked at 17.5 feet (5.33 meters) on Sunday — far exceeding the previous record of 15.6 feet (4.76 meters) observed in 1941, according to the prefectural government.

At least 291 people were injured, while damage from the rains forced more than 129,000 people from their homes. Approximately 20,000 took refuge in schools, gymnasiums and other temporary shelters.

May 6 | Porto Alegre, Brazil

An aerial view of the flooded Beira-Rio Stadium.

A group of volunteers on a flooded street.

Giulian Serafim/AFP/Getty Images

A car is filled with water on a flooded street in the Menino Deus neighborhood.

A military truck transports people out of the flooded area.

Nelson Almeida/AFP/Getty Images

Volunteers help residents evacuate from their homes in the Farrapos neighborhood.

May 5 | Porto Alegre, Brazil

An area after the flooding of Guaíba River.

May 5 | Canoas, Brazil

People are rescued after flooding.

Amanda Perobelli/Reuters

People are rescued by residents.

Rescue workers evacuate a flood victim.

A flooded street.

Anselmo Cunha/AFP/Getty Images

People wade through floodwaters.

People walk through floodwaters.

May 5 | Roca Sales, Brazil

Houses destroyed by floods.

Gustavo Ghisleni/AFP/Getty Images

May 5 | Jacarezinho, Brazil

People walk inside a shop destroyed by flash floods.

Diego Vara/Reuters

May 5 | Encantado, Brazil

An injured dog lies in the mud after heavy rains and floods.

Volunteers provide food, medical attention and clothing to people rescued from flooded houses at a gas station used as a meeting point.

Carlos Fabal/AFP/Getty Images

Julio Manichesque walks on the roof of his house after floods.

A flooded area after the flooding of Lake Guaiba.

May 4 | Porto Alegre, Brazil

A woman is evacuated from a flooded area.

May 4 | Canoas, Brazil

Rescue teams and volunteers help flood victims.

Alisson Moura/AFP/Getty Images

A man is rescued by military firefighters.

May 4 | Roca Sales, Brazil

A man is rescued after being injured during the floods.

May 3 | Eldorado do Sul, Brazil

Floodwaters overtake the streets.

May 3 | Porto Alegre, Brazil

A man wades through a flooded section of the city.

Carlos Macedo/AP

Residents of coastal islands near the shore of Lake Guaíba carry their belongings after being rescued.

Isaac Fontana/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

May 2 | Encantado, Brazil

A woman carries two rescued cats.

People and a dog are rescued from the islands of Lake Guaíba.

May 1 | Encantado, Brazil

Houses next to the Taquari River are submerged by floodwaters.

May 1 | Sinimbu, Brazil

A house partially destroyed by heavy rains.

A resident climbs a rescue truck.

May 3 | Encantado, Brazil

A woman walks through mud as she tries to get to her house.

May 2 | Lajeado, Brazil

Two men are rescued by military firefighters.

Jeff Botega/Agencia RBS/Reuters

People throw bags across a puddle as they evacuate flooded areas.

Vehicles covered in mud.

Horses wade through a flooded beach along the Jacui River.

People and their pets are rescued from the flooding.

Renan Mattos/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Residents are rescued by the Brazilian army.

Displaced people take shelter in a public facility.

A displaced person rests at a shelter.

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Photo editing and production by Jintak Han and Troy Witcher