Last Updated on September 11, 2022 by Carla Jonas
Estimated reading time: 45 minutes
When thinking of 80’s fashion, the words ‘big and bright’ surely sums it up. It was a decade of big hair, shoulder pads, large and dramatic earring types, acid wash jeans and eye-straining fabric colors and patterns. Fashion trends in the 1980s were about materialistic values and flaunting wealth. Having the right clothes meant spending extra money to buy designer labels and sports goods with a brand logo.
Although teenagers certainly played a part, for the first time, fashion wasn’t dictated by youngsters only. Baby boomers such as Tommy Hilfiger were becoming mature and more affluent, and they firmly planted their feet among the upmarket fashion influencers.
80s fashion gave rise to more style idols than any previous decade. It’s hard to imagine now, but in the 80s there were no cell phones or internet. TV offered only a few channels, and watching a movie was a luxury. After television, magazines, and advertising were the average person’s main source of fashion information. Limited exposure gave a select group of celebrities, music bands, and eighties clothing brands the opening to exert a significant influence on 80’s fashion trends.
What shoes were worn in the 80s?
The 80s trendiest shoes included Jordans, aka color-block sneakers, Doc Martens (chunky boots), Vans Classic slip-ons, Adidas Campus, medium heeled pumps and Mary-Janes, Jellies and Moccasins.
What clothes were worn in the 80s?
The most popular clothes worn in the 80s included Oxford shirts for men, as well as polo shorts and turtlenecks, slacks usually in khaki, suspenders, striped linen suits and corduroy. 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.
What accessories were popular in the 80s?
80s fashion was big on accessories. The trendiest items included scrunchies, leg warmers, fingerless gloves, plastic bangles, large funky earrings in neon shades, mesh accents, fanny packs and pearl necklaces.
JEWELRY SPOTLIGHT:
Mix high and low like in the 80s with a pearl bracelet and a pair of sneakers, plus your favorite denims. Browse our selection of Pearl Bracelets, featuring classic and modern pieces that bring charm to any smart-casual outfit. Whether you’re looking for Christmas outfit ideas, daily wear jewelry, formal bling or timeless pieces, pearls are always the right choice.
The Greatest Fashion Influencers of the 1980s
80s FashionDesigners and Clothing Brands
There were thousands of fashion designers and clothing brands in the 80s, but some will always stand out for their advertising campaigns or merely because their clothes were so quintessentially the eighties.
Reebok, Nike, and Adidas sportswear:Fitness became a craze in the 80s and sportswear from these companies was so popular that it became streetwear.
(Image Source: Arkamix)
Swatch watches:Every kid who wasn’t a complete loser had a few of these inexpensive plastic watches made with bright colors and patterns. Owning several was not enough, you had to wear them all at once.
(Image Source: Hasshe)
Jordache, Guess, Wrangler, Levi, Gitano, Bonjour, Sasson and a whole plethora of jeans designers:Whether your style was mom jeans, skinny, or acid-washed and ripped, everyone had a favorite pair of jeans in the 80s.
(Image Source: Hasshe)
Ray Ban:Famous for their Wayfarer and Aviator sunglasses, a huge pair of sunglasses were compulsory according to 80s fashion trends.
(Image Source: 1stdibs)
Issey Miyake:Issey Miyake’s designs concentrated on innovation and clothes that were comfortable to wear. In the 80s, he designed outfits that revolutionized pleated clothing.
(Image Source:
How To Spend It)
Triple Fat Goose:Ski-outfits were popular with yuppies in 1980s fashion. Their puffy, down-filled leather jackets inspired designers like Ralph Lauren to also create parkas in other fabrics.
(Image Source: The Awesomer)
LA Gear, Puma, and Converse shoes:Stars like Michael Jackson and famous athlete Joe Montana helped to make sneakers and high-tops a feature of the 80s fashion.
(Image Source: LA Gear)
Gotcha, Maui & Sons, and Lightning Bolt:These surf-wear designers promoted a carefree lifestyle, and because of their fun-loving reputation, the clothes became streetwear.
(Image Source: Jolygram)
Coca-Cola: Coca-Cola collaborated with Jordache and made branded clothing popular in the 80s.
(Image Source: Hasshe)
Benetton: One of the first big brands to step up and create awareness of social issues, ‘United colors of Benetton’ was a hit when it advertised boldly colored, patterned outfits and high waisted designs in true 80s fashion.
(Image Source: Hasshe)
80s Music Icons
Madonna:Unquestionably the queen of pop in the 1980s, Madonna not only influenced music trends; her incredible physique and energy prompted many young people to adopt the Madonna fashion style, from lacy tutus and leather jackets to wild hair with velvet bows and scrunchies.
(Image Source: Hasshe)
JEWELRY SPOTLIGHT:
Mix white pearls with black pearls for an authentic 80s style look that Madonna would approve of. Shop our collection of Black Pearls, featuring iridescent Tahitian gems of the sea and stunning baroque pearls. Browse our modern and classic designs, premium quality gems and wide range of styles to find your dream pearls.
Boy George: As one of the leaders of punk culture and music, Boy George regarded 80s fashion as art. With a philosophy of ‘anything goes’, Boy George and his American contemporaries like the Misfits helped to make dressing up and wearing makeup something not only the girls do.
(Image Source: Billboard)
Michael Jackson: If Madonna was the queen of pop in the 80s, Michael Jackson was the undisputed king. His power jackets, military-style accessories, and Jheri-curls African-American hairstyle continue as a fashion influence carried down the decades.
(Image Source: Hasshe)
MTV: MTV (a music television channel started in 1981) and wildly dressed celebrities of the 80’s was a match made in heaven. It suddenly became much easier to spread a fad and rock stars appearing on the channel had an enormous impact on teenage fashion all over America.
LL Cool J: Hip-hop music and rappers such as Run DMC, Salt n Pepa and LL Cool J left an indelible print on 80s fashion with fishnet shirts, boomboxes on the shoulder, leather jackets, high-top sneakers without laces, large finger rings and neck chains, and the now classic Kangol bucket hat.
(Image Source: 80s Music)
Celebrities Who Shaped 80s Fashion
Princess Diana: Many 80s fashion statements started with Princess Diana, even though she professed herself entirely disinterested in fashion. Beloved by the world since she first publicly appeared with Prince Charles early in 1981, people noted and emulated her every move. Diana was the force behind iconic 80’s clothing as diverse as the padded shoulder and feminine patterned silk blouses, high waisted jeans, statement shoulder pads, the winged ‘Diana’ hairstyle, and pearl earrings. She also sparked bizarre 80’s trends such as wearing several watches at once.
(Image Source: Marie-Claire)
PEARL SPOTLIGHT
Get inspired by Princess Diana’s beauty and elegance with your very own pearl-adorned Stud Earrings. Discover our collection of Stud Earrings, ideal for the widest range of outfits and occasions, featuring modern and classic designs that meet the highest standards.
Joan Collins: Joan Collins’powerful character, Alexis Colby in the 1980’s TV show Dynasty, inspired countless women to perm their hair to gain the distinctive big hair of the 80’s. She showed women how to wear puff shoulders and bold patterns in true 80s fashion, and just how to apply all that peaco*ck eyeshadow and blush. Teamed with a conservative blouse, her power suits became the uniform of women in the workforce who were starting to compete with men on an equal footing for the first time in the 80’s.
(image Source: Hasshe)
Jane Fonda: Jane Fonda was the first major actress to make an exercise video. Already making waves in the fashion world with her role in earlier movies such as Barbarella, Jane Fonda gained enduring fame for the leg warmers and leotards she introduced to the 80’s fashion scene through her fitness videos. Because of Jane, sports clothing walked from the gym on to the catwalk and soon became part of people’s everyday 80’s fashion wear.
(Image Source: Hasshe)
Ella Macpherson:The 1980’s saw the rise of the first high-earning supermodels and they increased their popularity and fashion impact by endorsing household products. Because of product advertising, the faces and 80s fashion style of models such as Elle Macpherson, Iman, Janice Dickinson, Grace Jones and Brooke Shields became famous in every household.
(Image Source: Popsugar)
Movies and TV Shows of the 80s
The 1983 movie Flashdance represented the essence of the 80s fashion. Oversized sweatshirts for women, leg warmers, leggings, and asymmetrical details originally made popular by the movie, are all coming into fashion again.
(Image Source: Hasshe)
A 1980s fashion icon: in the cult TV show Dallas, everyone tried to become rich and glamorous, and 80’s fashionistas religiously emulated the dress code of actors in the show. When the show recently aired again, it sparked an 80’s fashion revival featuring everything from Pam’s big hair, shoulder pads and oversize knit sweaters to Ms Ellie’s pearl necklace.
(Image Source: IMDB)
JEWELRY SPOTLIGHT
Channel the fashion trends of the 80s the chic way with ropes and ropes of pearls for a look that merges endless elegance with a savvy attitude. Discover our collection of Pearl Necklaces (including personalized jewelry pieces), featuring classic and chic Freshwater Pearls, Akoya Pearls, South Sea and Tahitian Pearls, designed to complement any daytime or nighttime outfit from your wardrobe, whether you’re rocking your acid wash jeans or co*cktail frocks.
The Calvin Klein underwear scene in the movie Back to the Future perfectly illustrates the power of brand name clothing in the 80’s and how celebrity collaborations helped to put a brand on the 80’s fashion list. To this day, Calvin Klein tighty whities with logoed waistband are the preferred symbol of sensual underwear for generation X.
(Image Source: Calvin Klein)
Miami Vice’s look might have been excessive even by 80s fashion criteria, but predictions are that we will see many 80’s styles from the show such as sockless shoes, 80’s swimwear fashions, and pastel T-shirts trending again next year.
(Image Source: Hasshe)
Streetwear For the 1980s
The extravagance of celebrities’ 80s fashion outfits was toned down in streetwear, but all the elements were there. The fabrics of the 1980s were unquestionably velour, spandex, and Lycra, with comfortable cotton and natural silk also popular. Severely
Fifteen 80s Women’s Fashions
The 80’s female silhouette was slender with big shoulders (viva la shoulder pads!) and a
During the 80s, women in charge in the workforce were still novel, and 80’s office outfits were inspired
The power-suit: A sharply-tailored suit with wide padded shoulders like Jackie Collins’ was a major fashion trend and a must if you had an office job during the 80’s. With the skirt at the knee and the jacket cinched at the waist, the 80’s power-suit was made of glitzy fabrics in jewel colors and worn with a plain blouse by a designer such as Versace including heaps of costume jewelry.
(Image Source: The Guardian)
Sheer tights: With short skirts showing off lots of leg, sheer tights were a staple in every woman’s wardrobe during the 80’s.
(Image Source: Flashbak)
Lamé: From 80’s prom style to middle-aged moms at a party, every woman had a shiny lamé dress with ruffles and quite possibly off one shoulder. Lamé dresses were worn in dazzling colors, paired with high-heel pumps and lots of make-up and accessories.
Ruffles: Blouses and dresses with puff sleeves and ruffles at the neck were a necessity in every woman’s wardrobe according to 80’s fashion. This feminine style favored by Princess Diana could be worn with everything from the power-suit to tight jeans for a night on the town.
(Image Source: Instyle)
The Animal Print Fashion Trend: By the 80’s wearing real animal skin was a big no-no, but over-the-top animal-prints featured on everything. Name the animal, and you could find it represented in 80’s textiles. From leggings to handbags and sunglasses, bold prints of leopard, zebra, snake and even giraffe skin were the rage.
(Image Source: One Who Dresses)
Leggings and stirrup-pants: Olivia Newton-John kicked off the craze with her skin-tight black leggings in the 1978 movie Grease, and by the early eighties, leggings started to replace fitted slacks for women. Try stirrup pants became popular, and towards the end of the eighties, women of all ages could be seen wearing leggings with a comfortable oversize sweater or large t-shirt.
(Image Source: 80s Fashion Clothing)
Big sweaters: Flashdance popularized large sweaters over a tank top worn off one shoulder. Towards the end of the 1980s, sweaters were made of velour or other luxurious textiles and colors were muted.
(Image Source: Poshmark)
Jelly shoes: In 1983, a buyer from Bloomingdales in New York saw jelly shoes at a shoe convention in Chicago and ordered them for the store chain. Despite being made of plastic, the inexpensive shoes were incredibly comfortable to wear, and the jelly shoe craze took off to such an extent that even great 80’s fashion designers such as Jean-Paul Gaultier added them to their range.
(Image Source: eBay)
Velour tracksuits: Velvety, stretchy velour fabric is both luxurious and comfortable, which is probably the reason the 80’s velour tracksuit was so popular. The Italian sportswear brand Fila made velour tracksuits that were so well-liked that celebrities wore them in restaurants and bars, and designers like Dior included velour tracksuits in their eighties fashion ranges.
(Image Source: Poshmark)
T-shirts: In the early 80s, Katharine Hamnett helped causes to make their voice heard through political slogans printed on t-shirts and soon large companies such as Nike, Adidas and Guess realized the advertising potential of their logo printed on T’s. You could wear your 80’s style t-shirt with a logo or slogan, with printed letters, or in a plain bright or pastel color. The comfortable tee was a staple to wear with jeans or leggings.
(Image Source: eBay)
Leotards and bodysuits: The 80s were a self-indulgent and self-conscious decade. Jane Fonda took advantage of women’s obsession with dance and exercise with her fitness videos and together with other fitness fanatics such as Cher helped to popularize sportswear leotards and bodysuits into functional fashion. This is one of the 80’s fashion trends that is carried through in some form to every decade since.
(Image Source: Hasshe)
Legwarmers: It wasn’t only Jane Fonda and the stars of Flashdancewearing leg warmers in the 80’s; leg warmers were every woman’s fashion statement, and sports clothes, skinny jeans, and leggings and a big sweater were all outfits that required legwarmers as a finishing touch.
(Image Source: Catherine Cole)
Jeans: Jordache made tight jeans with skinny legs popular, but women also wore ‘mom jeans’ with a high waist and loose fit around the legs. Whether your jeans were skinny fit or baggy, during the 80’s stone-washed and edgy rock-style acid washed denim fabric was the norm.
(Image Source: Shape)
JEWELRY SPOTLIGHT:
The perfect math for your beloved denims? Whether you’re rocking your skinny jeans or your denim jacket, single pearl necklaces and pearl pendants manage to elevate any casual or smart-casual look instantly. Featuring white, black, pink or golden pearls, our collection of Pearl Pendants carries something for every outfit in your wardrobe.
Denim jackets: Denim jackets for women became popular in the 70’s, but the 80’s gave rise to the classic short-waisted denim jacket for women. Worn with tight jeans and paired with a t-shirt or ruffled blouse, the 80’s stone-washed denim jacket has become unbeatable as part of a classic American look.
(Image Source: Stylecaster)
Eighties Fashions for Men
In the 80s, men started giving more importance to their appearance than before. The term ‘yuppie’ was coined as anacronym for the Young Urban Professional. For the first time in history, fashions for men played as important a role as for women, and many 80s clothing styles were unisex. Men started paying more attention to hairstyles and accessories, and thanks to music stars like Boy George, wearing makeup was no longer a taboo. Although male clothing in the 80s had bright colors and patterns in common with women’s clothing, men still tended to dress more conservatively, and their primary concern was for comfort.
Velour sweat suits: Men and women wore velour sweat suits in the 80’s. Fila, the Italian sportswear brand turned the classic velour sweat suit into the casual-wear staple for every man. Whether it’s the Italian connection or a mafia association sprouted by the 80’s TV series Sopranos, 80’s velour sweat suits became common for men from couch potatoes to trendsetters and remain popular to this day.
(Image Source: Macy’s)
Logoed everything: 80’s fashion was largely about showing off affluence and style, and one of the best ways to do this was to wear clothing sporting the designer’s logo or advertising a brand. Everything from Disney to Harley Davidson and Coca-Cola was represented on clothing in the 80’s, and brands such as Nike, Gucci, Levi, Lacoste, and Tommy Hilfiger became household names.
(Image Source: Poshmark)
Bomber jackets: Bomber jackets reached the height of 80s fashion in 1986 after the release of Top Gun but even before that, as a useful leftover from military service they were a staple in many American men’s wardrobes. Whether made from nylon or leather, after the 80s bomber jackets became a classic staple.
(Image Source: Amazon)
The Power-suit: Men wore sharply cut suits with wide shoulders in the 80’s. The idea was to look powerful and authoritative. Dark colors with a chalk stripe and jackets with a banker’s collar were the most common style. Men wore ties in the 80’s in a variety of styles; as with most 80’s men’s fashion, ‘anything goes’, and you could choose between extra-wide Kipper ties, skinny ties, and square-end ties. Ties were plain, patterned, or sometimes printed with weird designs that are making a comeback.
(Image Source: fhfff)
Distressed jeans: Hard rock and heavy metal bands such as Nirvana, Sonic Youth, and the Pixies gave rise to grunge culture, and 80’s fashions for men included distressed and ripped jeans. If you didn’t buy designer label distressed jeans from a big name such as Guess or Levi, you could always make a few slashes across the knees and other strategic places with a box cutter. It was also a popular practice to ‘peg’ jeans’ cuffs, meaning they were rolled over tight to show off your high-top sneakers.
(Image Source: eBay)
Spray-painted and airbrushed tops: Graffiti artists such as Fab 5 Freddy and Jean-Michel Basquiat plied their trade on sweatshirts and T’s and the hip-hop culture of the 80s fashion together with Blondie’s music videos helped spray paint on clothing to become a favorite feature in 80s streetwear.
(Image Source: Rage On)
Gucci sweatshirts: Rappers like Rakim and Eric B. loved the Gucci brand, and the designer’s look was comfortable and stylish enough that even old-school men found their sweatshirts appealing.
(Image Source: Gucci)
T-shirts: A staple in men’s wardrobes since the 1960’s, t-shirts truly took off in the 80s. Whether you wore them plain, patterned or covered in slogans, every male wore t-shirts and the stars in movies, and music videos made muscle Ts famous too.
(Image Source: Amazon)
Polo shirts: Lacoste polo shirts in pastel colors and horizontal stripes were a necessity for the preppy 80s man. Ocean Pacific’s polos had a nautical appearance and were the ideal shirt to wear somewhere between a formal button-down and a t-shirt.
(Image Source: eBay)
Penny loafers without socks: In the 80s, it was customary for men to wear penny loafers and moccasins without socks.
(Image Source: HeSpokeStyle)
Parachute fabric: This lightweight and easy-care fabric was popular for sportswear and sweatpants in the 80s. Outfits made from parachute fabric often sported horizontal stripes or chevron design.
(Image Source: Jambo’s Kickback)
Harem pants: The forerunner of today’s dropped crotch pants, harem pants in psychedelic colors and dizzying patterns were a leftover from the 70s that carried forward its popularity in the 80s.
(Image Source: Jambo’s Kickback)
Fat laces: If you wore Puma or Adidas sneakers, fat laces were a way to individualize your shoes.
(Image Source: Puma)
Jams: Brightly colored and patterned knee-length shorts, often with Hawaii inspired prints. These were fashionable beachwear according to 80s fashion trends, but also doubled as casual streetwear.
(Image Source: Lookastic)
Eighties Fashions for Children and Teenagers
Children in the 80s were becoming more self-sufficient than earlier generations, and with many newly affluent households in the eighties, they had the freedom to follow the latest fashions. The MTV music channel and famous musicians and film stars of the decade made a considerable impression on teenagers and fads spread like wildfire.
The jean jacket: Every 80’s kid had one. Acid-washed or just worn to softness, one could rip out the sleeves, add pins and badges, or sew patches on it to express your individuality.
(Image Source: Jollychic)
Socks for girls: While boys were getting away with wearing their sneakers without socks, layered socks and socks with lace edging were an 80’s fashion statement for the girls. Two pairs of neon socks worn one over the other, and ankle socks worn with heels were a bizarre 80’s fashion trend that seems set to return.
(Image Source: Glamour)
Tights: Every 80’s fashionista owned a pair of neon or cut-out tights. Worn with a miniskirt and denim jacket, it’s one of the most distinctive 80’s looks and one so unappealing we have to hope it won’t return.
(Image Source: Glamour)
Vans sneakers: Skateboarding was a favorite sport in the 80s, and masters of the board were showing off their skills indistinctive checkerboard Vans slip-on sneakers. Kids who wanted to emulate Jeff Spicoli in Fast Times At Ridgemont High rushed out to get their own pair and soon even adults were wearing them.
(Image Source: Vans)
A mesh top: Layered over bras and shirts for girls or worn rapper-style over a bare chest if you were a boy, teenagers loved to appear in mesh tops on the street or at a party.
(Image Source: Glamour Magazine)
Swatch watches: the name Swatch is a contraction of the words ‘second watch’, and that’s literally what these watches were in the 80’s. Inexpensive and made from plastic with bold patterns and bright color combinations, kids often owned more than one and wore them simultaneously. The fashion trend might have started after Swatch noticed princess Diana wearing more than one watch, and they promoted wearing multiple wristwatches by using tennis stars like Ivan Lendl and Andre Agassi as their brand ambassadors.
(Image Source: Reddit)
Mini-skirts: Women of all ages wore their skirts short, but if you wanted a hip image like the girls in Teen Witch, you would not be seen in anything longer than an 80’s mini-skirt made of denim or Madonna-style layers of net and lace.
(Image Source: Heaven Costumes)
Lace gloves and lacy clothing: In 1984, Madonna sang her hit song Like a virgin on MTV, decked out in a white dress and lace gloves. Lace gloves and anything lacy immediately became a fashion hit and remained throughout the 80’s.
(Image Source: Marie Claire)
Platform boots: Whether you paired it with a mini skirt or jeans, platform boots and DocMartens were the footwear of cool kids in the 80s.
(Image Source: Fashion Gone Rogue)
Neon everything: Blinding neon hues were a main feature of 80’s fashion, with one out of three Americans owning a piece of clothing in this garish and fluorescent color. Why was neon so popular? Neon was prevalent in the movies and on music stages because of its high visibility, and young people embraced the fashion trend and opted for bright yellow, green, pink and blue hues because the makers of fluorescent colors presented them as youthful and optimistic.
(Image Source: Elliot’s Fancy Dress)
Disney: Disney world was new in the 80’s, and a MickeyT-shirt was a must for younger fashion-conscious family members. In an era of increasing childhood independence, older children tended to wear clothes like 80’s adult styles, with bold geometric patterns and colors ranging from bright to pastel. Girls favored ruffled shirts, balloon skirts, and pumps with layered socks.
(Image Source: Depop)
High-cut swimsuits: Bikinis were popular too, but a classic 80s swimsuit would be a high-cut one-piece swimsuit like the babes on Baywatch wore.
(Image Source: Poshmark)
Sneakers without laces: Rappers, hip-hop idols, and other music stars popularized the idea of wearing sneakers without laces. This rebellious touch must have appealed to teenagers because flopping around with shoes falling off your feet was a thing in 80s fashion.
(Image Source: DEStress)
Make-Up in the Eighties
In the 80s, makeup
No one tried for a natural appearance in the 80s; the foundation was best worn a few shades lighter than the natural skin tone and slathered thick on the cheeks, with a bright streak of blush along the cheekbones to accentuate them to the fullest. Lips were unnatural with dark lipliner, followed by a bright lipstick in pink, orange, and red. For a while in the 80s, very pale lipstick was favored, but towards the end of the decade, it returned to bright colors.
The focal point of an 80’s face was the eyes. Eyeshadow in peaco*ck shades applied all the way to the eyebrows, followed by heavy eyeliner and lots of mascara. A smudgy look was popular, and often, more than one color eyeliner and mascara were applied for a layered look.
(Image Source: Hasshe)
Boy George and bands such as the Misfits promoted wearing makeup for men, but although it went a way towards promoting unisex styles for men and women, it was a style not many cared to adopt.
(Image Source: Independent)
80s Hairstyles
In the 80s, men, and women permed, teased and coiffed their hair to make it as big as possible. Hairstyles were massively large, curly, and heavily styled. Hairstyles from the 60s and 70s crept back into fashion with a few variations, and some fads like a rattail appeared and spread fast.
Princess Diana’s side-wept shaggy hairdo was loved in the early eighties, but later in the decade, most women wore permed hair coiffed into elaborate styles kept in place with clouds of hairspray. Scrunchies replaced the traditional elastic band, and the new stretchy cloth accessory was often adorned with pearls, sequins, and velvet bows. If you wanted to tie your hair away, a banana clip was useful, and side ponytails regarded as funky and fun.
(Image Source: Harper’s Bazaar)
JEWELRY SPOTLIGHT
Get your inspiration from no other than Lady Di with a pair of classic Pearl Earrings that transcend fashion. Timeless, chic and sophisticated, refined yet effortless, Pearl studs, drop styles and pearl hoop earrings have the ability to upgrade anything from an 80s style blazer complete with shoulder pads & jeans look (a la Diana ) to a little black dress or A-line co*cktail frock.
Bands such as Bon Jovi and Nikki Sixx favored big hair, and many men permed their hair to emulate the 80s hairstyle. The mullet made a big comeback in the 80s, and TV characters such as MacGyver made the style appealing. ‘Elvis hair’, combed-back and plastered with wet-look products, was also a trendy hairstyle for men in the 80s.
(Image Source: Hasshe)
African-American hairstyles were influenced by Jheri Redding, who wore his hair in loose permed ringlets. For a while, Michael Jackson copied this trademark style of 1980s fashion, and Jheri-curls became very popular. Another African-American hairstyle made all the rage by music was the high-top fade. From the moment Grace Jones was seen wearing it on her reggae album Warm Leatherette in 1980, black barbers were overwhelmed with requests for the style.
(Image Source: Cool Men’s Hair)
The skinhead culture started in London in the 1960s, and by the 80s it had spread around the world. Skinheads in America during the 80s shaved their heads. An 80s fashion phenomenon: skinhead culture intermingled with punk and reggae and a significant number of youths who followed the style of their music heroes walked around with a bald head, or partly shaved head with hair spikes.
(Image Source: Skyrock)
The rattail has been called the ‘mullet lite’ of the 1980s fashion and was most popular among boys. Whether you wore your hair short, in a mullet, or permed it, a thin strand of hair at the back of your head was left uncut and hanged down naturally to make a rattail.
(Image Source: Hairstyle Camp)
Accessories That Made 80’s Outfits Pop
Fashions were bright and bold in the 80s but what really gave the decade its distinctive look was accessories. No outfit was complete without a large statement necklace, dangling earrings down to your shoulders and a clash of bracelets. Dainty stud earrings and drop earrings took a backseat, while more opulent styles shined. If you were out on the street, a large tote bag and sunglasses were a must, and any physical exertion required the use of a sweatband and a boombox to complete the 80’s look.
Jewelry: In the 1980s, jewelry was large and distinctive. To match an edgy leather jacket , women of all ages wore giant earrings, large beaded necklaces, stacks of bracelets, and enormous brooches. While the rich slathered themselves in gold and luxe gemstones, for the most part, people preferred costume jewelry crusted with rhinestones or sparkly clear or pink gemstones. In the 80s, jewelry was not just a fashion accessory; it was a
JEWELRY SPOTLIGHT:
Make a statement with a dangly pair of drop earrings – flirty, discreet, yet impactful. Discover our collection of Drop Earrings, featuring enticing pearl jewelry designs for every wardrobe and occasion.
Sunglasses and big-eyed spectacles: Sunglasses in 1980’s fashion had giant frames and sported colored or mirror lenses. Wayfarers and Aviators by Rayban, and Vuarnet were some of the most popular 80s sunglasses, but there were many knock-off brands too. If you wore fashionable eyeglasses in the 80’s, they were oversized, with plastic frames.
(Image Source: Hasshe)
Boomboxes: Music was the soul of the 80s, and the only way you could take it with you was a boom box. Walking around with a huge silver radio on your shoulder became an emblem of the 80s ‘in’ crowd.
(Image Source: Hasshe)
Tote bags: Tote bags were a favorite fashion accessory – and no 80s look was complete without them. Companies such as LL Bean were already selling them for years, but in 1980, The Strand bookstore in New York hopped on the fashion trend and started promoting their own version of the bag. Companies like Esprit also made distinctive tote bags in the 80s, and they’ve become a classic fashion collectible, still selling thousands every year.
(Image Source: eBay)
Fanny pack: Fanny packs became popular with tourists in the 80s, then crept into the fashion scene, and finally became a useful accessory for everyone from joggers and cyclists to parents who need their hands free to manage their kids. Although fanny packs are not as popular as in the 80s, they are still important enough for designers like Louis Vuitton to include them in their ranges.
(Image Source: eBay)
Women’s belts: A popular 80s look – wide belts with an elaborate buckle worn at the waist, or on the hips. Elastic belts were also worn to rein in over large sweaters and blouses.
(Image Source: Pinterest)
Headbands: Starting with the fitness movement, eventually everyone from joggers in the park to Karate Kid and rock stars like Bruce Springsteen and Olivia Newton-John wore headbands in the 80’s. The terry-cloth headband fashion trend saw the practical sports accessory transition to a fashion ornament in bright neon colors during the80’s, and everyone who was cool styled their hair around a headband.
(Image Source: The Zeitgeist)
If you’re old enough to feel a bit sheepish when you catch a glimpse of yourself in an 80’s photo today, don’t. With its neon overload, power suits and acid wash jeans, 80s fashion was one of the most iconic so far. Everything from spandex, shoulder pads, teal eyeliner, and velour tracksuits to the neon shoelaces which defined 1980s fashion have become trend leaders and gave birth to throwback fashion influences that are predicted to continue to pop up in decades to come. Any day now, you will be able to dig out that pair of Day-Glo sneakers from the back of your cupboard and wear them again with pride.
PEARL SPOTLIGHT
Get your 80s fashion mojo ON by opting for the classics that can’t ever go wrong: White Pearls. Whether you’re shopping for a Pearl Necklace, Pearl Dangle Earrings, Pearl Bracelets or Mother of Pearl, white means versatility, timeless appeal and classic charm.
The images above have been reproduced under the “fair use” doctrine of the US Copyright Act. This blog claims no credit and means no copyright infringement for any images published on this site unless otherwise noted. The images on this blog are copyright to their respectful owners. If there is an image appearing on this blog that belongs to you and do not wish for it appear on this site, please email us with a link to said image and it will be promptly removed.
- Author
- Recent Posts
Fashion Writer at The Pearl Source
Olivia Mitchell is a writer focused on fashion, lifestyle, and wedding planning content, currently working at The Pearl Source. Classically trained, fashion-savvy, and with a background in styling as well as in digital marketing, Olivia is all about bringing you the latest on closet curation, trending must-haves, and wedding style & décor.
Latest posts by Olivia Mitchell (see all)
- 45 Types of Pink Gemstones: Benefits, Value and Healing Properties - June 1, 2021
- The Complete Guide to 80s Fashion - January 13, 2021
- Shopping Guide: 5 Tips on Buying Pearls Online - August 4, 2020
155 comments
Dino Sam
great post i like this very much
Reply
-
Satta Matka
good post thank you for sharing ?
Reply
-
Paylessvouchercodes
This article is an appealing wealth of useful information that is interesting and well-written. I commend your hard work on this and thank you for this information. I know it very well that if anyone visits your blog, then he/she will surely revisit it again.
Reply
-
Mufti Jeans
That is very impressive and these even look very cool while wearing. Keep sharing such informative men fashion tips.
Reply
-
flirtymania
I like the 80’s fashion and the popular stars all over the world! The fashion industry has been changing day by day and the modern fashion is now more updated! Thanks for sharing this information with us!
Reply
-
Terrance McDaniel
i like the 80s fashion actually. Except for the headbands and shoulder pads, i love everything in the blog. I want you guys to react to Medieval French clothing…
Reply
-
pant suits for plus size women
Interesting blog. Thanks for sharing.
Reply
-
Deals By Post
I’ve just recently discovered your blog and it just a Beautiful and attractive blog. So thank you for sharing. Looking forward to reading more posts already.
Reply
-
Edgar Morgan
Great Blog! Thanks for sharing informative content. I will definitely go through these ideas.
Reply
-
jignov shopping
wow… thanks for sharing this useful one…it’s good reminding think on 80’s style… i like this blog and his contents and pics.
thank youReply
-
Boyd Pease
Hi Guest Blogger 80s. Am trying to track down information about the 80s brand womens clothing – Audio. Specifically the Connie Anderson line of bright neon yellow and blue plaid. Am interested in reprinting the pattern for personal use and am wondering if it is still under copyright or could be reproduced for personal use not for sale. If you have any leads at all would appreciate any information, thank you, Boyd
Reply
-
80s hair
Love the post!! great work I love the 80s fashion and everything 80s.
Reply
-
jignovshopping
thanks for sharing this post… i really like these Articles.
Reply
-
Btysun
Its very informative article. I want to know your other information. thank’s
Reply
-
Swetha
Thanks for sharing nice information
Reply
-
Next Level 3600
80s t shirt still the same like 2020 tee fashion
Reply
-
kevinelliott
I love the fashion i really follow it great post thanks for sharing.
Reply
-
Thomas M. Cope
Thanks for sharing..
Reply
-
Robert Wilfort
Such a beauty full fashion, I love this post thanks for sharing this wonderful post.
Reply
-
emily
i love the old fashion which is now emerging in 2021
Reply
-
Soclikes
I like your post. Thank you! Will you write the same about 90s?
Reply
-
Viplikes
Thank you for this guide! I like it
Reply
-
Jazz
I love this information you shared with us. I am waiting for your next post. Keep it up. What a great idea! thanks. 🙂
Reply
-
TPS Blog Admin
I am glad you like it. Yes, we might do so but not on our schedule right now.
Reply
-
Scott Hicks
This is a very interesting post for fashion lovers especially of the 1980’s. You also describe shoes, clothes & accessories used in 1980’c.
Reply
-
Charles
Sorry but for my point of view the 80’s fashion was a bit odd.
Reply
-
Adele Horin
Love the guide about 80s fashion. I am so pleased to reading this blog post. Thanks for sharing the helpful guide.
Reply
-
David Martin
Next Level fashion!
Reply
-
Sharah
Its very informative article. 80s was wild!
Reply
-
satta matka
I just found this fashion blog and have high hopes for it to continue. Keep up the great work, its hard to find good ones. I have added to my favorites. Thank You.
Reply
-
Jennifer Gram
Thanks for sharing.I found a lot of interesting information here. A really very thankful and hopeful that you will write many more posts like this one.
Reply
-
Joseph Perkins
What are you a mellenial? Boy George was not punk.He was New Wave/New Romantic.And most of the fashions you meantion was Rich peoples stuff
Reply
-
Snackcoupon
Thank you for putting up such a great article on fashion accessories, you can also put together a list of discount stores to get promo codes and coupon for buying such accessories. Don’t you think?
Reply
-
TPS Blog Admin
Sorry, but this is not a buying guide just an informative post about 80s fashion.
Reply
-
Rupali Roy
Yes, I agree with TPS Blog Admin
Reply
-
SunSat Boutique
Really great fashion for the 80’s presented here. Love your work
Reply
-
quickfansandlikes
Thank you for this guide! I like it
Reply
-
Stin
Came here to to refresh my memory about 80’s brands. Was not disappointed! I must have blocked out acid washed jeans
It’s always interesting to look at fashion retrospectively (with some nostalgia) Neon and stirrup pants were huge, but seeing someone dress like Madonna or (esp) Boy George was terrifying to most! Vans, big crosses and converse were for the really edgy, until suddenly they weren’t in the late 80’s early 90’s Thank you for the stroll through the mall, when I was a kid, just what I was looking for.Hope the guy looking to re-release the blue/yellow plaid figures it out. It was spectacular
Reply
-
indian satta matka
Good post thanks for sharing this information
Reply
-
Noom
I just love all these styles of 80s. Would try some out them!
Reply
-
Raymond
Thanks for sharing!
Reply
-
Raymond
I like the 80’s fashion and the popular stars all over the world! The fashion industry has been changing day by day and the modern fashion is now more updated! Thanks for sharing this information with us!
Reply
-
desiethnicity
What a great idea. I think that having that printed on your clothes can really make a statement about your style.“I don’t do fashion. I am fashion.”
Reply
-
titaufiq
it’s a very fashionable style. Looking good and nice products .Really amazing fashion tips.
Reply
-
Kevin Elliotts
It’s an amazing idea and very helpful for everyone. Thanks for share
Reply
-
Sunny
Thanks for giving your ideas. I’d also like to convey that video games have been ever before evolving. Technology advances and enhancements have made it simpler to create practical and enjoyable games. These kinds of entertainment video games were not that sensible when the actual concept was first being tried out. Just like other areas of electronics, video games also have had to advance via many ages. This itself is testimony towards the fast progression of video games.
Reply
-
Mark
Gecko Hawaii — They we’re way bigger, more iconic, better and more Hawaii/California than Maui and sons. Maui and sons is a Walmart brand and they are not from Hawaii and we’re not as big as Gecko or T&C Surf in the 80s. Big dog too, Op and Bugle boy. This guide is not ultimate until you ad those.
Reply
-
emma
It’s always interesting to look at fashion retrospectively (with some nostalgia) Neon and stirrup pants were huge, but seeing someone dress like Madonna or (esp) Boy George was terrifying to most! Vans, big crosses and converse were for the really edgy, until suddenly they weren’t in the late 80’s early 90’s Thank you for the stroll through the mall, when I was a kid, just what I was looking for.
Reply
-
Chris Evans
it is a well written blog with full of information of fashion information.
Reply
-
kohls 30 off fatwallet
Thanks for sharing this articles this is really helpful for me.
Reply
-
Chadar Trek
Wow really a good blog. thank you for share admin.
Reply
-
freddy joe
Have to say, I just love 80’s fashion and jewelry trends.
Reply
-
Gillian
Was including the picture of Eleanor Calder intentional for the Coca Cola section? Did you know who she was?
Reply
-
Bella
It was really classical, happily I have spent this time and carried this fashion in my college life
thanks for cheering up memories
Reply
-
Louis Tomlinson Merch
Keep up the wonderful piece of work, I read few posts on this internet site and I think that your blog is really interesting and holds bands of fantastic information.
Reply
-
Sugar Balance
This guide is really helpful for me. Keep it up!
Thanks for sharing with us.Reply
-
Mike Pirson
This guide is really helpful for me. Keep it up yeah nice
Reply
-
calvin harris
Nice Post!
Thank you for the info information, I will wait for posts like this and will read them with pleasure
Reply
-
gisinsulation
That’s an interesting article. This is what I’m looking for. Thank you.
Reply
-
Gill Robs
Such a good collection.. i really appreciate this collection…
Reply
-
samia
thanks for sharing very useful and keep sharing and updating this
Reply
-
????? ???? ??????
Thanks for sharing this information sir…
Reply
-
only matka
Have to say, I just love 80’s fashion and jewelry trends.
Reply
-
Montu rai
thanks for sharing very useful and keep sharing
Reply
-
Norbert
Amazing stuffs here honestly the jewelries design ar out of this world
Reply
-
Sky Jackson
I like though the old fashion and yeah this blog on 80’s fashion it’s impressive!
Reply
-
Satta matka market
Really great fashion sense in our elders in 80s ,
beautiful postReply
-
amal
Great insights from the 80s fashion and really appreciated for this card
Reply
-
Couponsva
I definitely enjoying every little bit of it. It is a great website and a nice share. I want to thank you. Good job! You guys do a great blog and have some great content. Keep up the good work.
Reply
-
prabhat morning satta matka
awsome blog..keep posting good things
Reply
-
prabhat satta
keep posting good things
Reply
-
kitoinfocom
Hii,
This is Great Post for me. now, i’m Learned from your article. thanks for sharing this kinda information’s for me. i glad with your Article!.Reply
-
milan day chart
i like you work loving ? blog thanks for sharing this information sir
Reply
-
Chopta Chandrashila Trek
In fact, your creative writing abilities has motivated me to get my own, personal site now.
Reply
-
OrganicSocialBoost
I had read many blog regarding guide of 80’s fashion but i will find prefect guide their.
Thanks for sharing nice information, Mate. Keep it up.Reply
-
Technical News
best for knowledge
Reply
-
Abram Abram
I have thought so many times of entering the blogging world as I love reading them. I think I finally have the courage to give it a try. Thank you so much for all of the ideas!
Reply
-
Walmart
Hello, this weekend is fastidious for me, as this time i am reading this enormous informative post here at my house.
Reply
-
Satta Matka Online
Good Blog and thanks
Reply
-
Promotional Codes
Thank you for putting up such a great article on fashion accessories, I really love your work and you presented great fashion for the 80’s in this article
Reply
-
satta matka guessing
Good post thank you friend for support and share and watching
Reply
-
iptv sat?n al
thanks for sharing!
Reply
-
Matka 420
Thanks for providing a piece of great information and looking beautiful blog, really nice required information.
Reply
-
iptv bayilik
such a good sharing!
Reply
-
madhur matka
nice blog thanks for sharing!
Reply
-
Eric
obviously like your web-site but you need to check the spelling on quite a few of your posts. Many of them are rife with spelling problems and I find it very troublesome to tell the truth on the other hand I’ll surely come back again.
Reply
-
rohit
Very Good Information, Thanks
Reply
-
satta matka
Nice article thanks for you I’m back
Reply
-
Chardham By Helicopter
After reading this article I’m really back in the 80’s era. Thank you so much for showing 80’s fashion trends
Reply
-
Leo
Very nice write-up. I absolutely love this site. Stick with it!
Reply
-
kuber matka
Keep up the great piece of work, I read few posts on this site and I believe that your website is real interesting and holds sets of good info .
Reply
-
Shane
Hi there, I want to subscribe for this blog to take most recent updates, therefore where can i do it please assist.|
Reply
-
hairstyles
Need more fashion post like this please send me
Reply
-
hairstyles
Thank you for the good information. Very good blog
Reply
-
Charly Rich
I didn’t have any expectations concerning that title, but the more I was astonished. The author did a great job. I spent a few minutes reading and checking the facts. Everything is very clear and understandable. I like posts that fill in your knowledge gaps. This one is of the sort.
Reply
-
Manuel Ward
Thank you for sharing this blog. It was so informative and helpful SEO blog.
Reply
-
Akash
Thanks For Sharing Such Great Content
Reply
-
Adultslove
This is a very informative and useful post for me. Thank you for sharing such a good article.
Reply
-
Eric
Like!! Really appreciate you sharing this blog post.Thansk you
Reply
-
chrisgail104
It is good news for the students interested in Fashion, and they like to become an expert fashioned so that they may take part in international fashion level.
Reply
-
samia
Indeed very Good information keep sharing in future
Reply
-
Brij Future Point
Thanks for sharing your posting. keep share your posting.
Reply
-
electronicmanufacturing
thanks for sharing your posting related to fashion. Are you looking the best electronics manufacturing services? So, We are the best option for you for electronics manufacturing company and services in World.
Reply
-
Ricky
Awsome blog..keep posting good things. Good post.
Reply
-
Hunter
I have to express my appreciation for your generosity in support of women who really want help on in this concern. Your personal commitment to getting the message around appeared to be especially beneficial and have specifically made regular people like me to attain their endeavors. The interesting help signifies a lot to me and much more to my fellow workers. Thanks a ton; from each one of us.
Reply
-
Alexa
Thanks for sharing such a great post. I am very passionate about fashion and your post let me know all about 80s fashion. I really find your post very informative. Please keep on sharing these kinds of posts in the future also.
Reply
-
Paylessvouchercodes
This article is an appealing wealth of useful information that is interesting and well-written. I commend your hard work on this and thank you for this information. I know it very well that if anyone visits your blog, then he/she will surely revisit it again.
Reply
-
Blog Oceans
Thanks for sharing this post. I really like it.
Reply
-
CDRM Solutions
I enjoyed reading your 80s fashion guide. This was a very interesting post.
Reply
-
textnab
thanks for sharing the post is veary usefull for me
Reply
-
Briana
Thanks a lot for giving everyone remarkably brilliant opportunity to check tips from this website. It’s usually very good and also stuffed with fun for me personally and my office co-workers to search the blog on the least three times in a week to learn the latest things you have got. Of course, we’re actually astounded with your incredible advice served by you. Certain 1 facts in this post are clearly the very best I have ever had.
Reply
-
Carloll
I do love the manner in which you have presented this specific situation and it does give me personally a lot of fodder for consideration. However, from just what I have seen, I just simply hope as the commentary pack on that folks stay on issue and in no way embark upon a tirade associated with the news of the day. All the same, thank you for this excellent point and although I do not agree with the idea in totality, I value your point of view.
Reply
-
Charlotte
I simply want to mention I am just all new to blogging and site-building and honestly liked this blog site. More than likely I’m likely to bookmark your website . You surely come with fantastic well written articles. Regards for sharing your web page.
Reply
-
rohit
those are really amazing 80s best collection
Reply
-
exam paper
That is very impressive and these even look very cool while wearing. Keep sharing such informative men fashion tips.
Reply
-
Kid Cudi Merch
Very helpfull post for sharing thanks for this super post.
Reply
-
Kid Cudi Merch
Very helpfull post Post.
Reply
-
Jva
Thanks so much for sharing 80 fashion!!!!!
Reply
-
Betty
Awesome Blog! It’s really a nice blog. Thank you for sharing it and keep posting such interesting articles!
Reply
-
stibosten
Wow , your article so fantastic,thanks for sharing,
Reply
-
Missguided
Your site is surprisingly interesting, thanks for your fashion work.
Reply
-
nissoandconyc
Nice Blog Post..!!! thanks for sharing valuable content
Reply
-
Mitchell Robinson
I found very rare information here. Was curious to know about 80’s fashion and get to know great stuff here.
Reply
-
Navjyot singh
Thankyou for sharing this post we know the 80’s fashion .
Reply
-
Alisha Kumawat
Indeed very Good information keep sharing in future.
Reply
-
HolidayMaker
Great post! I am actually getting ready to across this information, is very helpful my friend. Also great blog here with all of the valuable information you have. Keep up the good work you are doing here
Reply
-
Arpit
I like your blog in fashion related.
Reply
-
Arpit
awesome fashion style of your article
Reply
-
M&P Tracking
wow, That’s an amazing blog. Thanks for share
Reply
-
Himalaya Tour
Thanks for sharing such a nice fashion post.
Reply
-
satta matka
nice posting good website i,m back
Reply
-
nissoandconyc
great post thanks for shared
Reply
-
mannu
nice article thanks for posting
Reply
-
Camila Gregoire
Nice Blog Post..!!! thanks for sharing valuable content
Reply
-
sattamatka
nice bloge i impressed
Reply
-
Emily Vinson
Your fashion blog is very nice and informative. I appreciate your thoughts on this topic and I will return to your website. Thanks for sharing!
Reply
-
Satta Matka
good post thank you so much
Reply
-
Joker slot
This is my first time i visit here.
Reply
-
4kwallpapers
Great Information really love it
Reply
-
SuperCartSavers
I am amazed about the revival of 80s fashion
Reply
-
nissoandconyc
great blog post . thanks for shared
Reply
-
Michelle Carter
Wow! I loved the article and how the brands put their logos well and still looks super cool. This article was really informative and I got to know many other things about 80’s fashion and I am going to try some of them. Thank you so much.
Reply
-
coupons
Thank you so much for your help about my performance on this topic. I really appreciate the details you shared with me about areas I can improve upon—this insight will help me greatly improve how I approach our next project together. I appreciate your guidance and hope we can find more feedback opportunities soon.
Reply
-
The Mountains of India
I really enjoy this blog. make the next blog on 90s fashion. how the fashion changed in now a day?
Thanks for sharing!Reply
-
Summer Fraser
Such wonderful! blog clothing will remain popular it is a really good article with awesome points such as a beauty-full post, thanks for sharing this post.
Reply
-
Laura McLaughlin
It was a fun stroll down memory lane, however she overlooked a very important fashion “must” from the 80’s.
The padded (sometimes over padded) shoulders for women. In everything! You could add shoulder pads to your bra straps so your T-shirts could be padded as well.
Reply
-
Sarba
Beautiful article.
Reply
-
ig bios
nice article thanks for posting
Reply
-
Men's dress shirts
This article is an engaging abundance of helpful data that is fascinating and elegantly composed. I compliment your persistent effort on this and thank you for this data. I know it very well that in the event that anybody visits your blog, he/she will clearly return to it.
Reply
-
The Brands Info
This is truly an exceptional blog about the fashion industry in the 80s, enjoyed it alot.
Reply
-
Chokore India
Fashion keeps changing over the time, and it never disappoints user.
Reply
-
Reccy Travel
Great blog i am very impressed Thanks beauty
Reply
-
Pasha Ebrahimi
WOW! REALLY FANTASTIC! SUMMER STYLE WHITE PUFF SLEEVE ROMPER SO WONDERFUL POST I REALLY LOVE YOUR ARTICLE & THIS IS REALLY VERY INFORMATIVE POST
Reply
-
Mona
This was very informative
Reply
-
Qualified MCA Leads
thanks for sharing this 80s fashion guide.
Reply
Leave a Reply
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
