The '80s Fashion Trends Stylists Can't Get Enough Of (2024)

It's no secret that fashion trends from the 1980s are having a moment like never before. Just think about it: The '80s brought us fishnets and leg warmers, served up electric colorways and the naked dress, made a case for leggings-as-pants, and inserted shoulder pads into any blazer and blouse that designers would allow.

Plus, it wasn't just the clothing that became historic: the women who made these looks their own are the same ones we draw inspiration from today. Case in point: Princess Diana's revenge dress and signature turtlenecks-under-sweaters moments, as well as Madonna's corsets and tulle and layered jewelry. Demi Moore and Molly Ringwald challenged gendered dressing norms, while Lisa Bonet advertised a cool, eclectic style.

If you dig deep enough, there's an '80s aesthetic for every style preference. While we'd absolutely advise looking to the archived celebrity looks of the time for inspiration, we also went ahead and reached out to a few fashion experts to get their opinion on which '80s styles are trending and how to wear these looks today.

Leather Jacket + Platform Shoes + Metal Accents

The '80s were a vibrant and glamorous decade, especially within the music industry. To fully recreate that iconic glam-rock aesthetic, Angeles says platform shoes, metallic staples, leather fabrics — or better yet, faux leather — and lots of glittery accents are key. "To take it to the next level, incorporate lace, statement belts, gloves, power suits, and oversized boxy blazers," Angeles tells us. "Forget less is more — with the '80s, more is definitely more, and making a statement is always the way to go."

Sequins + Mini Skirts

For girls' night out or happy hour (or just because), Angeles says the '80s trend she'd gravitate towards would be a mini skirt decked out in sequins. "Pair with bold colored pointed toe pumps, a tucked-in, flowy white button-up, and chunky gold jewelry for an extra touch of glam."

Oversized Blazers With Shoulder Pads

In an exclusive interview with InStyle, Christina Jaide revealed her number one favorite style from the '80s to wear today is an oversized blazer with big shoulders. "They're too good to move on from," Jaide tells us. "If you are reaching for something oversized and you are sporting a smaller frame, give the look a try with a defined waistline. Adding a belt will ensure your shape is at the forefront of your look."

Bodysuits + Wide-Leg Jeans + Neon Accents

Teresa Jaide says a bodysuit is a fashion trend from the '80s that's appropriate for any occasion, especially when worn as a sleek foundation piece. "I would recommend going from a top to a bodysuit when sporting a look where you don't want to bulge while tucking it in — such as a classic button-down — or when you're baring your shoulders," she tells us. "Having the extra support ensures your look stays intact. Try pairing your bodysuit with wide-leg trousers or even a flowy skirt. The tightness of the bodysuit will help balance out your look."

Biker Shorts + Graphic Tee + Knee-High Socks

This eclectic ensemble brings together a variety of '80s trends for a totally original look. Start out with the basics, specifically, biker shorts and an oversized t-shirt. Then combine with Heathers-style knee-high socks and your chunky footwear of choice. It lands every time.

Shirt Dress + Tall Boots

The '80s was all about sizing up. Take the classic white button-down, for instance. An oversized version of the wardrobe staple creates an entirely new aesthetic by serving as a makeshift shirt dress with Risky Business vibes. As far as footwear is concerned, you can't go wrong with a pair of knee-high boots.

Statement Pants + Bomber Jacket

Can we just take a minute to appreciate that this outfit has entered our visual field? From the shiny gold color to the fringe movement, these statement pants command attention. To keep from feeling too extra, a simple bomber jacket adds the perfect contrast.

Neon Power Suit

There's no better way to flaunt confidence than with a power suit — and a neon one at that. Bright, bold color and lace attributes lead to a flawless execution of this Working Girl-era uniform. It's bound to turn heads.

Oversized Shirt + Fishnet Stockings + Animal Print Boots

Hosiery played an important role in '80s fashion, whether it was colored tights or textured fishnet stockings, like the ones seen here. An oversized top, itty-bitty shorts, and boots (animal print of any kind is highly encouraged) will create an on-trend jellyfish silhouette, in case you're interested.

Harem Pants + Platforms

MC Hammer might not be the most likely fashion muse, but his harem pants are back thanks to It girls and influencers alike. Style your pair with a fitted jacket to create structure and platform shoes to elevate your look.

Athleisure

Adidas tracksuits were big in the '80s. And as much as we love our loungewear, we are absolutely obsessed with this versatile tracksuit dress. It pays homage to the decade while adding its own modern-day spin.

Stirrups Leggings + Pumps

Leggings are often grouped into athleisure and are therefore seen as casual. However, with the right detail, they can also spout sophistication. The trick? Stirrups. For an office-appropriate and/or date night outfit, pair your soft pants with pointy-toe pumps. Victoria Beckham will approve.

Acid-Wash Paper Bag Jeans + Shoulder Pads

With her body suit, shoulder pads, and high-waist paper jeans, Shailene Woodley is an '80s queen. For those of you taking notes, structured tops and voluminous bottoms — especially those with an acid-wash finish — are forever flattering.

Off-the-Shoulder Dress + Wide-Brimmed Hat

Rose Bertram seemed to have taken a page out of Whitney Houston's fashion lookbook with this red confection. Its off-the-shoulder design, puff sleeve details, and voluminous silhouette, are everything we could want — and more.

Sheer Lace Dress + Leather Jacket

From brides to Madonna, everyone was wearing lace in the '80s. Today, we are seeing a revival of the fabric among the fashion set. This extremely "naked" dress is moody, yet romantic, and checks off all the boxes.