In the 1980s, bigger meant better across the brand in fashion. From women’s shoulder pads to men’s power suits to bold colors and patterns for men, women and children, there was nothing understated about fashion in the eighties. The 80s are easily identifiable. This decade featured fast music, sporty cars, TV in every home and new materials that changed the world. The 80s were the opposite of boring in everything they did. Everything suddenly became louder than before, from the tune to the hair styling. 80s fashion also gives us some iconic looks that we can’t forget from men and women both. In this blog, we will look into different fashion styles of the 80s for both men and women and also some famous things that make the 80s the most fashionable era.
The Overall Style of the ’80s
Power Suits
Women’s suits became bold and structured in the 1980s. It is one of the noticeable changes which went from the softer polyester styles of the past. The progress was made in the 70s by women liberation. At the moment fashion became a way to show strength. At the time some known designers like Thierry Mugler, Yves Saint Laurent, and Jean Paul Gaultier had made suits with wide padded shoulders and with sharp cuts.
Introducing the Preppy Look
The term “yuppie,” is the short for “young urban professional,” which became popular in the 1980s. In 1984 Yuppie Handbook described the style clearly. Ralph Lauren skirt suits, bow blouses, Coach bags, and sneakers became popular instead of heels. However, some felt the yuppie style lacked creativity, the classic preppy look, especially with Ralph Lauren’s polo shirts.
Body Con: Fashion Sizzles
fashion turned up the heat in the 80s when body-hugging styles were introduced. It became hype as it showed off every curve. Designers like Azzedine Alaïa have introduced tight, athletic-inspired dresses which were made from Lycra. The designs had sporty details such as racerback sleeves and ribbed necklines. More designers came into light and brought the gym vibes into dresses. Stylish skirts and sweater dresses were also loved by women.
Lagerfeld and Lacroix Rule
In the 1980s, Karl Lagerfeld was the designer who brought Chanel back to life. However, Christian Lacroix introduced bold tutu skirts which made waves. With Saint Laurent and designers like Ungaro and Ferré rising made the fashion popular in the Middle East.
The New London Look
A bold new fashion came out of London. Designers like Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren had moved from punk to a dramatic and playful style which was called New Romantic. On the other hand in 1981 the “Pirate” collection stood out with ruffled shirts, bold prints, and tricorn hats with the mix of old-world charm
A Fitness Craze Begins
The 1980s saw a huge fitness craze. In this era fashion for workout took off. Workout fashion took off too. The designers think of bright leggings, Lycra bodysuits, leg warmers, and sweatbands. Celebrities also got involved by releasing different workout videos. In 1982, Jane Fonda’s fitness video became a massive hit and became one of the best-selling VHS tapes ever.
Leather Jackets
Leather jackets became iconic with the help of Madonna and Michael Jackson. It is made with studs, zippers, and bold cuts. The leather jacket became a symbol of youth and freedom from punk rock scenes to pop music stages. Designers bring new life with fresh styles, fits and colors.
Off-the-Shoulder Tops
Off-the-shoulder tops or “flashdance” tops. These tops became a popular choice for their fun and relaxed look. These are styled with high-waisted pants as they highlight the shoulders which adds the charm to the outfit. Designers use fabrics like cotton, silk, lace, and prints like stripes and florals to make each piece unique.
Parachute Pants
Parachute pants came into light and were made from light nylon, and came in all fun colors. In the early 1980s and 90s these pants became popular. They are also a comfortable fit which is perfect for dancing, or hanging out. People love to wear it with t-shirts, crop tops and windbreaks.
Men’s Fashion Trends of the 1980s
The 1980s men’s fashion was loud and bold. The suits with wide shoulders, flashy watches, and often statement accessories. Men dress to show their confidence. From business looks with the pinstriped suits also the burberry coats were famous at the time. Polo shirts with boat shoes were also popular at the time. Punk and hip hop music also introduced fashion like leather jackets, gold chains, ripped jeans, and snapbacks . Bright windbreakers, denim jackets, and oversized shirts were also known for the sporty look.
Neon and Bold Colors in the 80s
One of the most famous things from the 80th century was the bright and neon colors, which were seen everywhere. From gym suits to party looks these colors were the favorites. Some colors that became popular at that time were hot pink, neon green and some shades of blue. Women are also attracted towards big earrings, bracelets, scrunchies and leg warmers. According to women of that time, bright makeup with teased hair, and wild accessories completed the look.
SummaryIn summary, the 1980s fashion was bold and also unforgettable. At the time power suits to parachute pants, and leather jackets to neon colors, everything became louder and brighter. It was a decade where fashion was attitude, and standing out. Many designers pushed their limits to make people wear loud colored clothes with confidence. Gym wear or runway looks, the 80s were known as the styles that still influence different trends today. The fashion from this era was iconic. If you are a fan of the 80s fashion era, contact COMPANY NAME today to get your most favorite jackets.