Lots of fashion trends come and go, but the 80s women’s fashion has undoubtedly left an indelible mark. The glamour that was oozed through the brightly colored clothes, shoulder pads, and statement jewelry was unmatched. It was a decade that celebrated rebellion, self-expression and daring fashion choices. Over the years, we’ve seen snippets of this spectacular fashion trend crop back up in different ways. However, it seems like the 80s women’s fashion is experiencing its own renaissance now. Let’s explore how to revive this trend in today’s world in the most stylish way possible.
The Influence of 80s Women Fashion
Women’s fashion in the 1980s was heavily influenced by music, film, and television. The iconic personalities that dominated the entertainment industry of the era set the tone for fashion trends followed by women across the globe. This period was marked by a mix of high-energy, glitz, and glamour driven by youthful rebellion and social change.
Music Icons
The music scene was a driving factor that influenced the fashion of the 80s. Pop artists such as Madonna, Whitney Houston, and Cyndi Lauper led the pack with their unique style and trendsetting looks. Madonna’s “Vogue” era was known for fishnet stockings, lacy tops, and high-waisted pants while Whitney Houston’s iconic “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” music video featured bright neon colors, oversized tops, and statement accessories. Cyndi Lauper’s punk-inspired style, featuring flamboyant and rebellious pieces, influenced a generation of teenagers.
Rock bands such as the Queen and Guns N’ Roses also impacted the fashion of this era. Women started embracing the rockstar look with leather jackets, studded belts, and ripped jeans. These trends were aimed at promoting gender equality and breaking away from traditional gender roles.
Movie Stars
Movies had a large influence on the fashion trends of the 80s. The success of movies such as “Dirty Dancing,” “Working Girl,” and “Flashdance” saw the rise of several fashion trends. The “Flashdance” trend was one of the most significant fashion movements of the decade. The style featured ripped sweatshirts, leg warmers, and tight leggings, and it dominated the fashion of young women.
The movie “Working Girl” influenced the rise of dressing for success, which saw women wear power suits with wide shoulder pads and high waist pants. The romantic drama “Dirty Dancing” brought back the retro looks of the early ’60s era, featuring polka dots, full skirts, and high ponytails. These movies inspired women to express their individuality and have fun with fashion.
Television shows such as “Dallas,” “Dynasty,” and “Miami Vice” also influenced the fashion trends of the 80s. These shows featured the wealthy and their extravagant lifestyles, with characters wearing high-end fashion pieces made of expensive fabrics, jewelry, and accessories. The looks inspired women to dress in luxury and glamor, making it a defining era in fashion history.
Key Characteristics of 80s Women Fashion
The 1980s was a decade of bold experimentation and self-expression, which transcended from music to fashion. Women’s fashion in the 80s was all about extremes, from power dressing to brightly colored clothing, and everything in between. In this section, we will delve into the key characteristics of 80s women’s fashion that made it unforgettable.
Bright and Bold Colors
In the 80s, women embraced bright and bold colors, especially neon. Neon greens, pinks, and yellows were the norm, and it was not uncommon for women to wear neon clothing from head to toe. Fluorescent outfits, hair accessories, and shoes were all popular choices. The overall goal was to stand out and make a statement.
Women also wore bold prints, such as animal prints, polka dots, and geometric patterns. The fashion was all about having an over the top look that represented one’s individuality.
Power Dressing
Power dressing became a trend in the 80s due to the increase in women working in corporate environments. Women wanted to dress in a way that matched their male counterparts or even surpassed them. Power dressing in the 80s was all about shoulder pads, sharp tailoring, and exaggerated silhouettes. Women wore blazers with padded shoulders, high-waisted pants, and pencil skirts.
The powerful and assertive looks embodied by power dressing gave women the confidence they needed to succeed in a male-dominated workplace. Women’s fashion in the 80s allowed them to show off their strength and power through their clothing.
Accessories
Women’s fashion in the 80s wouldn’t be complete without accessories. It was all about the bigger, the better, the bolder! Jewelry and accessories were statement pieces that made an outfit. Earrings were large hoops or chandelier styles, and chunky necklaces were prominent.
Women also wore thick belts over blazers, cinching in their waists and accentuating their figures. Accessories were an essential part of 80s women’s fashion and completed each outfit with perfection.
Reviving 80s Women Fashion Today
It’s time to dig up your mom’s vintage wardrobe because 80s women’s fashion is making a comeback! From bold colors to dramatic fashion, the era of power dressing, statement accessories, and oversized silhouettes, is back. The 80s was a decade of excess, and fashion was no exception. This era produced some of the most iconic and memorable fashion trends, and it’s exciting to see them being reimagined in today’s fashion world.
Incorporating 80s-inspired fashion into modern trends
If you want to incorporate 80s-inspired fashion into modern trends, here are some tips to get you started:
- Shoulder Pads – One of the most iconic 80s fashion trends was shoulder pads. They were a symbol of power dressing and created a bold, structured silhouette. You can incorporate shoulder pads by wearing blazers or jackets that feature them.
- Neon Colors – The 80s was all about bright, bold, and neon colors. Incorporate neon colors into your wardrobe by wearing accessories or pairing them with neutral pieces.
- Big Hair – The 80s was the era of big hair, and it was all about volume and curls. To achieve this look, use curling irons or hot rollers to create big curls or go for a fashionable messy bun.
Statement Accessories
One of the easiest ways to add 80’s-inspired fashion into your wardrobe is through statement accessories. Jewelry with big chunky beads or chains, oversized sunglasses with colored frames, and bold belts are perfect pieces that will give you that retro fashion look. You can also add a pop of color and flare to your outfit through bright and bold-colored handbags that are sure to be the conversation starter in any event.
Oversized Silhouettes
Another prominent feature of the 80’s fashion scene was the oversized silhouettes. Clothes like denim jackets, oversized t-shirts, and boyfriend blazers, and baggy jeans were the hallmark of the decade. The good news is that these comfortable and forgiving pieces are still dominating the fashion scene nowadays. Pairing them with skinny jeans or leggings will give you that trendy and updated look that is perfect for the current fashion season.
Must-Have 80s Women’s Fashion Items
Do you want to bring back the iconic fashion of the 80s? Perhaps you’re feeling nostalgic for the golden era of Madonna, neon, and shoulder pads? Regardless of your reasons, if you desire a wardrobe that celebrates everything that was great about 80s women’s fashion, then this guide is for you. Here are the essential pieces every woman should have in her wardrobe to revamp her style and pay homage to the 80s.
1. Oversized Blazers
The oversized blazer was a quintessential fashion item of the 80s and is still a staple today. Whether you’re going for that “business casual” look or dressing up for a night out, the oversized blazer is a must-have for any 80s-inspired outfit. Bold, boxy, and often brightly colored, these blazers were worn over jeans, skirts, and dresses for a touch of sophistication and style.
2. Acid-Washed Denim
Denim was huge in the 80s, with acid-washed styles taking center stage. These unique denim pieces came in a variety of shades of blue, featuring noticeable swirls and patterns. From jackets to jeans, the acid-washed look was everywhere in the 80s. Pair them with studded belts and ankle boots to create a true 80s-inspired ensemble.
3. High-Waisted Mom Jeans
If you’re looking for a comfortable and casual 80s look, then a pair of high-waisted mom jeans is a must-have. These classic jeans feature a high waist, a relaxed fit, and a tapered leg. Perfect for a laid-back weekend or brunch with your friends, these jeans can be worn with everything from T-shirts to blouses.
4. Leg Warmers
No 80s wardrobe is complete without leg warmers. This classic accessory was worn by everyone from fitness enthusiasts to fashionistas. Sliding perfectly over your calf and atop your sneakers, these versatile leg warmers can be paired with just about any outfit. Wear them with shorts or even a miniskirt to create a unique look.
Not sure where to buy leg warmers? No problem! There are plenty of online fashion retailers that sell them. Alternatively, you can make your own by cutting off the sleeves of a sweater or searching for a pattern online and getting creative with your knitting needles.
Ways to Style 80s Women’s Fashion
The 80s was a decade full of bold fashion trends that empowered women to express themselves through their style. From power suits to neon colors, 80s women’s fashion has made a major comeback in recent years. Here are some ways to style 80s women’s fashion today:
Athleisure
Combine comfort and style with athleisure-inspired 80s fashion. Think oversized sweatshirts, leggings, and sneakers mixed with pops of neon colors or bold prints. You can also add some edginess by wearing a denim or leather jacket over your athleisure outfit.
Glam Rock
Introduce some rock and roll to your wardrobe with inspired 80s glam rock fashion. Look for pieces such as sparkly mini dresses, leather pants, and studded jackets or accessories, and complete your look with black boots or bold colored platform heels.
Preppy Style
Bring back the popular preppy style that was prevalent during the 80s with collared shirts, pleated skirts, and sweater vests. Accessorize with hair scrunchies, pearl jewelry, and a pair of classic loafers to complete the look.
Power Suits
Channel your inner boss babe with a power suit, a signature ensemble of the 80s. Opt for a sleek, oversized blazer paired with high-waisted trousers or a fitted skirt. Finish the look with chunky statement jewelry and some pointy-toed pumps.
Denim on Denim
This iconic trend from the 80s is still as trendy today. Try combining different washes of denim, such as a light-wash denim jacket, with dark-wash jeans. Add a pop of 80s color with bright accessories, like neon-colored sneakers or scrunchies.
How to Add Personal Touch to 80s Women’s Fashion
The 80s were the epitome of glamour and extravagance. From the classic blazers to oversized accessories, this era was all about making loud fashion statements. With the revival of 80s fashion in the modern era, why not bring some personal touch to the trend and make it truly yours? Here are some tips on how to add a unique twist to 80s women’s fashion:
1. DIY Projects
The beauty of DIY projects is that you can create bespoke fashion items on a budget. One of the most popular 80s fashion items was the denim jacket, which can be easily upcycled with your personal touch. You can add patches, studs, embroidery, and even paint to make it stand out. Another idea is to add tassels to your clothing to give it an 80s twist.
2. Vintage Finds
One of the easiest ways to infuse your personality into 80s fashion is to incorporate vintage finds in your look. Thrift stores and flea markets are treasure troves of unique clothing items from the 80s. Look for pieces that have some edginess and character to them, such as boldly patterned blouses or statement jewelry. The best thing about vintage fashion is that it is sustainable, and you get to own a piece of fashion history.
3. Accessorize with a Statement Piece
The 80s were all about making big, bold fashion statements, and nothing screams bold more than accessory pieces such as chunky necklaces, bold earrings, and oversized sunglasses. To give your outfit a personal touch, aim to accessorize it with a statement piece that reflects your personality. It could be a pair of earrings in your favorite color, a quirky brooch, or a chunky chain necklace.
4. Mix and Match
The beauty of fashion is that it has no hard and fast rules. One idea to add a bit of personal touch to 80s fashion is to mix and match different items. For example, pair a brightly patterned blouse with a leather skirt, or match an oversized blazer with patterned pants. This not only adds individuality to your outfit but gives you the freedom to express your personal style without fear of being judged.
5. Experiment with Colors and/ or Prints
The 80s were notorious for bold, bright colors and big, flashy prints. Experiment with different colors and prints until you find a combination that speaks to your personality. For example, consider mixing black and white polka dots with red pants or wearing a neon yellow top with a floral pattered skirt. Don’t be afraid to play around with different prints and colors to find a combination you love.
6. Play with Accessories
If you’re not quite ready to commit to full-blown 80s fashion, why not experiment with accessories? Add some neon bangles, oversized sunglasses, chunky belts, or colorful socks to your outfit to add a touch of 80s flair. You can even try adding a scrunchie or two to give your outfit a retro touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| Q: Can I wear these 80s fashion outfits to work? | A: It depends on your work dress code. However, you can always incorporate some 80s elements into your work attire to stay stylish. |
| Q: How do I accessorize my 80s look? | A: Accessories play a significant role in nailing the 80s look. You can go for statement earrings, oversized sunglasses, and chunky bracelets. |
| Q: Is it necessary to wear bright colors? | A: Bright colors were a significant trend in the 80s fashion, but you can also rock subtle colors if you aren’t a fan of bold hues. |
| Q: Can I mix and match 80s styles? | A: Absolutely! Mixing and matching 80s styles can create a unique look. Just remember to balance the proportions. |
| Q: Are shoulder pads necessary? | A: Shoulder pads were a significant trend in the 80s, but you don’t have to wear them if you don’t want to. There are other ways to achieve the desired silhouette. |
| Q: Where can I buy 80s fashion outfits? | A: You can find 80s fashion outfits at vintage stores or shop online at specialty stores that sell retro clothes. |
Thanks for Reading! Visit Again Soon!
We hope this article has inspired you to add some glamour to your wardrobe by incorporating the iconic 80s fashion elements. Remember, fashion is all about having fun and expressing yourself. So, take some inspiration from the 80s and make it your own!
