80s style clothing

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I'll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here .

Remember the power suits and oversized blazers of the 80s? Those were more than just trends; they were statements of personality and bold individualism.

You might be wondering, what made 80s style clothing so iconic and influential? The answer lies in the unique combination of glamour, rebellion, and a zest for self-expression that was woven into every outfit of the era.

It's time to revisit these styles and understand their impact on today's fashion landscape. Stay tuned, as we're about to embark on an exciting journey through the best of 80s style clothing.

80s Style Clothing

1. Iconic 80s Fashion Moments

Diving into the realm of iconic 80s fashion moments, you'll find a plethora of standout styles that not only defined the era, but also made lasting impressions on the world of fashion. Think oversized blazers, a trend that was embraced by both the elite and the masses. This trend was a nod to the power dressing movement, allowing women to make bold, assertive statements in the workplace while still maintaining a sense of style and femininity.

Take for instance, the fashion of Princess Diana, whose iconic black sheep sweater and oversized blazers remain emblematic of the era. Her blend of royal sophistication with accessible fashion resonated deeply with the public. Similarly, Madonna's edgier late-80s fashion, often including oversized blazers, set the stage for her iconic style. Even Cher's no pants outfit on the USS Missouri, completed with an oversized blazer, became a legendary 80s fashion moment.

In the realm of music, Salt-N-Pepa's impactful fashion in their 'Push It' video established a unique hip-hop girl group style, while Brooke Shields' red suspender pants and Kermit the Frog t-shirt embodied the quirky, offbeat fashion choices of the decade. The oversized blazer was at the heart of it all, offering a stylish way to make a statement.

2. 80s: The Fashion Revolution

In the 80s, you'd witness a veritable fashion revolution, with punk and preppy styles taking center stage, influencing the bold and expressive fashion trends that icons like Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Joan Collins championed. You'd see a significant shift from the free-spirited bohemian styles of the 70s to a more flamboyant, glamorous, and attention-grabbing fashion scene.

The 80s fashion can be characterized by a few notable elements:

•             The popularity and widespread use of shoulder pads, a clear symbol of power and assertiveness, especially in women's clothing.

•             The bold use of color and animal prints that defied the norm and allowed individuals to express their personality freely.

•             The rise of denim, from jeans to jackets and everything in between, as a staple in every wardrobe.

The decade was marked by a blend of sophistication and grunge. You'd see everyone from Hollywood stars to the girl-next-door flaunting flashy power suits, vibrant animal prints, and distressed denim. It was a time when fashion became more than just clothing; it was a powerful tool for self-expression, individuality, and rebellion against the norm. The 80s truly were a fashion revolution.

3. Top 1980s Outfit Inspirations

Let's turn our attention to some top outfit inspirations from the 1980s. Drawing from iconic trends, you'll find that recreating your 80s look can be as thrilling as it's nostalgic.

From Princess Diana's black sheep sweater to Madonna's edgier late '80s fashion, you have a plethora of styles to choose from.

Iconic 80s Fashion Trends

When you think of iconic 80s fashion trends, power suiting with its bold shoulder pads and structured silhouettes likely comes to mind. This was a time when fashion was unabashedly bold, setting the stage for a host of flamboyant and eclectic styles. Here are some key trends that defined the fashion landscape of the 80s:

•             Puff sleeves: Romantic and feminine, they added a touch of whimsy to dresses and blouses.

•             Button earrings: Worn by style icons like Jackie Kennedy, these earrings made a definitive statement.

•             Fur coats: A throwback to glamour, these richly-hued coats were all about making a statement.

Each of these elements showcases the diversity and creativity that marked 80s fashion, a testament to the era's enduring influence.

Creating Your 80s Look

Having explored iconic 80s fashion trends, you're now equipped to create your own 80s-inspired look, blending bold colors, power suits, and shoulder pads for an authentic throwback ensemble.

You can experiment with puff sleeves, button earrings, and fur coats to add a touch of glamour and sophistication. Opt for fit & flare dresses, special occasion dresses, and vintage-inspired pieces to channel iconic 80s fashion.

It's all about mixing and matching tops, skirts, and bottoms to create unique, stylish outfits reminiscent of the 80s. Even consider exploring workwear options in all sizes, including plus sizes. That way, you can find the perfect 80s style clothing to add to your wardrobe.

4. The 80s Fashion Runway

On the 80s fashion runway, oversized blazers emerged as a versatile trend, a style that was notably popularized by Sarah Jessica Parker and has since remained a recurring theme in designer collections. You see, it's not just about the size; it's also about the way they're styled. Pairing an oversized blazer with a mini skirt or high-waisted jeans, for example, can create a chic and sophisticated look. These blazers epitomize the playful yet powerful spirit of the 80s, where boldness was celebrated.

As you dive deeper into the 80s fashion world, you'll notice a few other trends that have stood the test of time:

•             Hooded dresses, a bold statement piece that Grace Jones brought to the forefront. This style exudes an air of mystery and sophistication.

•             Denim pieces, from Canadian tuxedos to high-waisted jeans, reigned supreme. Denim was, and still is, a symbol of effortless cool.

•             Parachute pants were highly functional and comfortable. Versace's spring/summer 2023 show brought back this trend with oversized designs.

These trends encapsulate the spirit of the 80s, a time when fashion was unapologetically bold and expressive.

5. 80s Style Clothing Pieces

When you think about iconic '80s fashion trends, power suits, shoulder pads, puff sleeves, button earrings, and fur coats likely come to mind. These weren't just clothing pieces, they were statements that defined the era, and their influence is still visible in today's fashion world.

Let's discuss how these iconic '80s style clothing pieces have been revived and the impact they continue to have on modern apparel.

Iconic 80s Fashion Trends

Diving into the realm of 80s fashion, you'll find shoulder pads, power suits, and puff sleeves making a bold statement, embodying the era's unique blend of structured confidence, workplace empowerment, and romantic femininity. These trends significantly impacted the fashion world, leaving an indelible mark on style.

•             Shoulder pads: They gave outfits a structured, commanding look, reflecting the decade's assertive attitude.

•             Power suits: Known for their empowering effect, these broke workplace norms, becoming a symbol of women's liberation.

•             Puff sleeves: Adding a touch of romance, they balanced the boldness with soft femininity.

These '80s fashion trends weren't just about style; they were emblematic of the era's socio-cultural shifts. Understanding them helps you appreciate the depth and significance of this transformative decade.

Reviving 80s Clothing Styles

Incorporating quintessential 80s clothing pieces like power suits, shoulder pads, puff sleeves, button earrings, and fur coats into contemporary fashion can be a fun and stylish way to revive the bold and unique trends of this iconic decade.

By reviving 80s clothing styles, you're not only making a fashion statement but also expressing a sense of nostalgia. Power suits add a bold and daring touch to your look, while shoulder pads lend structure and confidence.

Puff sleeves, with their romantic and playful vibe, offer versatility to any outfit. Button earrings, a glamorous 80s trend, can uplift your look with an air of classic elegance. So, don't hesitate to explore these styles and bring the 80s back to life in your wardrobe.

Impact of 80s Apparel

Undeniably, the impact of 80s apparel on the fashion world is seen in the enduring popularity of its bold colors, oversized silhouettes, and power dressing trends. You'll notice some timeless pieces that have been transformed and reintroduced in today's fashion scene.

•             Shoulder pads, a defining feature of 80s style clothing, instilled confidence and structure in outfits.

•             Puff sleeves, a romantic and feminine detail, were also a hit.

•             Button earrings, worn by style icons like Jane Fonda, became a classic jewelry trend.

These trends haven't only made a comeback, but they've evolved to fit the modern fashion landscape. So, whether you're sporting a fur coat, real or faux, know you're embracing a glamorous staple from a vibrant decade. Each piece holds a story of the 80s fashion revolution.

6. The Best of 1980s Fashion

When you think of 1980s fashion, power suiting with bold shoulder pads and statement puff sleeves probably comes to mind - a trend that truly defined the decade. But the 80s wasn't all about the power suit.

Button earrings made a splash in the 80s too, worn by style icons like Jackie Kennedy and Joan Collins. These accessories added an element of elegance and sophistication, making them a must-have for any fashion-forward individual. Continue reading to uncover more trends.

The 80s also saw a resurgence of glamorous fur coats, featuring oversized shearling toppers and rich hues. This trend catered to the decade's desire for luxury and opulence, pushing the fashion boundaries of the time.

Fashion in the 80s wasn't just about one-size-fits-all. Size options ranged from XXS-XS to plus sizes like 1X-2X and 3X-4X, making 80s fashion inclusive and accessible for everyone. The decade's fashion categories were diverse, including dresses, tops, skirts, and bottoms.

7. Power Dressing in the 80s

While you might associate the 80s with vibrant neon colors and wild patterns, it's worth noting the significant impact power dressing had on the fashion scene during this decade. Power dressing was a symbol of empowerment, utilizing tailored blazers and trousers to create a commanding presence. This trend incorporated masculine elements into women's fashion, borrowing the bold shoulders and structured designs typically found in men's attire.

In the power dressing trend, accessorizing played a pivotal role. Statement pieces were chosen to complement the overall look, adding an extra layer of confidence and authority. Here are three key components of 80s power dressing:

•             Tailored blazers and trousers for a refined look

•             Bold shoulders and structured designs for a commanding silhouette

•             Statement accessories to enhance the overall outfit

Power suits became iconic for breaking workplace norms and shattering glass ceilings during the 80s. This trend wasn't just about fashion; it was a statement about women's place in society. Today, modern interpretations of power dressing continue to feature strong silhouettes and sophisticated designs, proving that the essence of power dressing never truly faded away.

8. 80s Women's Style Icons

Just as power dressing defined a significant part of the 80s fashion scene, so did certain women who became style icons, pushing boundaries and setting trends with their bold and unique sartorial choices. Princess Diana's iconic black sheep sweater and famous wedding gown are timeless 80s fashion statements. She was the epitome of elegance and simplicity, with a touch of rebelliousness that made her a darling of the fashion world.

Then there's Madonna, the Queen of Pop, who embraced an edgy transition in the late '80s. Her penchant for bustiers and menswear shoes set her apart as a style icon. Her outfits were daring, controversial, but ultimately trendsetting.

And who could forget Grace Jones? Her androgynous style was a game-changer, breaking traditional fashion norms and redefining what it meant to be fashionable. Cher, too, made bold fashion choices like her unforgettable leather jacket look and daring 'no pants' outfit on the USS Missouri.

The 80s also saw the rise of influential hip-hop girl group Salt-N-Pepa, who defined fashion with their seminal jackets, and Brooke Shields, whose red suspender pants and Kermit the Frog t-shirt became iconic outfit choices. These women shaped 80s style, leaving a lasting impact on the fashion world.

9. Retro 80s Fashion Trends Today

Breathing new life into today's fashion, retro 80s trends like neon colors, oversized blazers, and denim ensembles are making a striking comeback, infusing a touch of nostalgia into contemporary style. You can't help but notice the power dressing vibes with suits, shoulder pads, and puff sleeves reminiscent of the 80s. Button earrings, a classic jewelry trend from that era, add glam and style to any outfit.

Here are a few noteworthy trends:

•             Glam rock vibes, inspired by stars like Dolly Parton, are making a comeback. Think sequins, bold colors, and lots of bling.

•             Fur coats, including oversized shearling toppers and animal prints, are back in trend, adding a touch of glamour and sophistication to your wardrobe.

•             Denim ensembles, from jackets to jeans, are in vogue again, giving your outfit a casual but stylish look.

These retro 80s fashion trends are influencing contemporary fashion choices, adding an exciting nostalgic touch to your outfits. It's the perfect blend of past and present, giving you the chance to relive the vibrant 80s while staying in tune with today's fashion.

You’ll Also Love

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *