Fashion Icons of the 1980s (2024)

FAQs

Who were the fashion icons in the 1980s? ›

The eighties were among the most experimental decades in fashion history due to legendary fashion icons like Princess Diana, Madonna, Joan Collins, and Boy George.

Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson, was arguably the biggest star of the 1980s, in any genre. He became a world wide mega star, following the release of the biggest selling album of all time, "Thriller", released in 1982. The album would go on to sell over 35 million copies! Jackson revolutionized the music video.

In the first half of the 1980s, long hair, leather rocker jackets (biker jackets) or cut-off denim jackets, tight worn-out jeans, and white, high trainers (sneakers) and badges with logos of favorite metal bands were popular among metalheads, and musicians of heavy metal and speed metal bands.

Best '80s party outfit:

Think short, pink, and lots of ruffles. Big, teased-out hair is optional. Sydney Sweeney rocked the exact look at her birthday party last year. Pair a pretty pastel off-the-shoulder top with your favorite straight-legged jeans or a skirt, just like the popular girl in those '80s teen movies.

Artists like Michael Jackson, Queen, Prince, U2, and Stevie Nicks changed certain rock music trends with their style of fashion in the 80's. Styles like long, thick hair, and leather jackets were seen on the majority of pop rock bands and artists during this time.

Danish model Renée Simonsen rose to prominence after winning the "Face of the Eighties" competition in 1982. She graced the covers of top publications like Vogue and Sports Illustrated and became the face of major beauty brands such as Clarins, Covergirl, and Maybelline.

Thanks to men like David Bowie, Bryan Ferry, Michael Jackson and Jean-Michel Basquiat, as well as films like Wall Street, dressing up in suits came back into style - and with this men like Giorgio Armani, Ralph Lauren and Gianni Versace became the most in-demand menswear designers of the decade.

1 Michael Jackson

As the decade's best-selling artist, it may come as a surprise to note that Michael Jackson only released two albums. However, it certainly helps out when one is the best-selling album of all time as his 1982 record Thriller has sold an astonishing 70 million copies worldwide.

Features. Initially power dressing consisted in a conservative style recalling directly the male wardrobe including tailored suits, jackets with padded shoulders, roll-neck sweaters and knee length skirts.

The 1980s have been called “the decade of decadence,” and one of the era's most notable movie characters, Wall Street's Gordon Gekko, famously declared that “greed is…good.” But the decade was about more than just excess. It was a period marked by defining events that continue to resonate.

What was the fashion trend in 1983? ›

OVERVIEW. 1983 featured a flashback to the 1940s with menswear influences like strong shoulder pads and oversized coats. The overall look of the year is accentuated by the power belt that minimizes the waist and emphasizes the hips. In summary, volume fashion was a hit.

For women, the hottest fashions included high waisted jeans (mom jeans), leg warmers, ripped denim, spandex and Lycra, acid wash jeans, statement shoulder business suits (usually with skirts), punk leather items and leotards.

'80s Glam. This '80s color scheme, which features vibrant shades of purple, teal, lime, and pink, will glam up your project. These vibrant hues are reminiscent of 1980s fashion color trends.

From wearing underwear as outerwear to her trademark lacy gloves, crucifix chains and love of Boy London jeans - Madonna was an undisputed fashion icon. Most 80s clothing worth wearing was worn by this absolute icon.

Thanks to men like David Bowie, Bryan Ferry, Michael Jackson and Jean-Michel Basquiat, as well as films like Wall Street, dressing up in suits came back into style - and with this men like Giorgio Armani, Ralph Lauren and Gianni Versace became the most in-demand menswear designers of the decade.

DESIGNER FASHION

The designer labels became a part of the fashion culture. For instance: Gianni Versace was known for his fitted co*cktails dress. Christian Lacroix, was infamous for his puffball taffeta skirts. Karl Lagerfeld for the classic Chanel suit with jewel toned tweed suits.