80s Fashion: A Look Back at the Bold and Iconic Trends
The 1980s were an amazing time of big hair, bold fashion choices, and daring looks. Fashion in the 80s is usually remembered for bright colors, bold patterns, and eclectic mix of styles that reflected the decade’s cultural, social, and economic changes. Here’s a look back at the most iconic fashion trends of the 80s, along with five key points to keep in mind.
Power Dressing
One of the defining fashion trends of the 80s was power dressing. This style was characterized by sharp, tailored suits and bold statement pieces, like shoulder pads and bright blouses, that were designed to make a statement and convey confidence and authority. Women, in particular, embraced power dressing as a way to assert their place in the workplace, and this look quickly became one of the most recognizable styles of the decade.
Neon Colors
The 80s were all about making a statement, and what better way to do that than with bold, neon colors? From hot pink to electric yellow, these eye-catching hues were everywhere in the 80s, popping up on everything from clothing to accessories. Whether you were rocking a neon green windbreaker or a pair of neon pink leg warmers, you were sure to stand out from the crowd.
Punk and New Romantic
While power dressing was one side of 80s fashion, punk and new wave styles were the complete opposite. These styles were all about taking risks and breaking the mold, with bold haircuts, eclectic clothing, and a punk rock attitude. Punk fashion often incorporated elements like studded leather jackets, ripped jeans, and bold graphic tees, while new romantic looks featured frilly lace shirts, billowing trousers, and lots of eye-catching accessories.
Athletic Wear
The 80s saw a surge in popularity of athletic wear, as people embraced a more active lifestyle and gym culture began to take off. Brands like Adidas, Nike, and Reebok became household names, and sportswear was no longer just for the gym. Casual wear like tracksuits and running shoes were now popular for everyday wear, and the trend for athletic wear continues to influence fashion today.
Accessories
No 80s outfit was complete without the right accessories. From chunky jewelry to oversized sunglasses, accessories played a big role in making a fashion statement. Necklaces with oversized pendants, earrings with geometric shapes, and bracelets stacked high on the wrist were popular, as were colorful backpacks and oversized tote bags.
The 80s were a decade that celebrated individuality, and also of course included self-expression through fashion statements. Whether you were embracing power dressing, punk or new romantic styles, or just having fun with bright colors and bold accessories, the 80s were all about making a statement and standing out from the crowd. While the 80s fashion trends may seem over the top today, they continue to inspire and influence designers and fashion lovers around the world.
Vital Points About the 80s:
- Power dressing was a defining fashion trend of the 80s, characterized by sharp, tailored suits and bold statement pieces.
- Bold, neon colors were everywhere in the 80s, making a statement on everything from clothing to accessories.
- Punk and new romantic styles were all about taking risks and breaking the mold, with bold haircuts, eclectic clothing, and a punk rock attitude.
- Athletic wear saw a surge in popularity in the 80s, as people embraced a more active lifestyle and gym culture began to take off.
- Accessories played a big role in making a fashion statement in the 80s, with chunky jewelry, oversized sunglasses, and bold backpacks and tote bags being popular. It’s also known that hair accessories such as scrunchies, headbands, and barrettes were a must-have for any 80s hairstyle. The use of leggings and tights as a fashion statement also became popular during this time.
