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

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.

'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.

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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

• Categories: Fashion Gender Roles Gender Stereotypes

About this sample

Words: 758 |

Published: Aug 14, 2023

Words: 758 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

Table of contents

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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