The 80s was a decade full of style, with bold colours and silhouettes everywhere. With trends ranging from coloured leggings, leather trousers and ripped jeans to shiny oversized jackets, the style icons of those years ranged from Joan Jett to Joan Collins. The 80s was one of the most eclectic decades in fashion history. And like it or not: the 80s are back!
From big shoulder pads to flamboyant jumpsuits, some of the key looks from that era are making their comeback, and we can find them on the catwalks too. One of the reasons why 80’s style is back is because we are getting tired of the minimalist style that has reigned over the last 3 years. Bright colours and sophisticated silhouettes are back: after all, 80s fashion was all about excess. Everything was big, bold and absolutely colourful. It marked a decade when a powerful femininity began to spread; in fact, during the day, women wore suits and jackets with big shoulder pads to show that they were as powerful as the men. By night, the style revolved around sequins, hot pants, miniskirts and tights.
Characteristics of the 80s style
The love for major brands and top designer labels was a great feature throughout the decade of the 1980s. It was all about materialistic values and the flaunting of wealth. A general financial wellbeing, that reflected on clothing: people started to spend more for designer brands, accessories and bags as long as they had the brand logo prominently displayed: we can say that it’s in this decade that the ”logomania” was born.
When we think of 80s fashion, the words “oversized and glittery” sum it up perfectly, but let’s not forget the many subcultures that characterised the second half of the 80s, when colour gave way to the punk look. Although teenagers have certainly played a key role, for the first time, fashion has not been dictated only by the younger ones. The 80s spawned more fashion idols than any previous decade.
DO’s and DON’Ts
DO’s
Logos: as we said, “logomania” was born in the 80s, so don’t be afraid to wear your brands with pride; Padded shoulders: every jacket, top, shirt must have padded shoulders, a perfect trend for women with a triangle body shape that can easily minimise hips and focus the attention on the upper part of the body; Oversized: everything is extra, volumes too. Be ready to size up to achieve the true 80s style;
DON’Ts
Minimalism: the 80s style is in deep contrast with everything that’s minimal, is more about excess, extravaganza, boldness; Neutrals: of course, there’s no room for neutral shades. You’ll have to opt for bright shades, neon and glitter; Essentials: you won’t need basics to dress like a real 80s fashion icon. So leave your white t-shirts and your little black dresses and embrace more interesting and voluminous silhouettes.
80’s style top clothing
We’ve compiled some examples of must-haves for your wardrobe if you want to fully embrace the 80s style. Ready?
First of all, you’ll want a blazer, but not just any one: it should be structured, with padded shoulders, of course, and even better if it’s in a bold colour like green or yellow. Underneath the blazer, you can opt for a printed shirt, and make sure you don’t go easy on the print (“extra” is the key word here), or a T-shirt with an oversized logo (paillettes are optional, but highly recommended). As for the bottoms, you can choose jeans (a relaxed mom or wide-leg style) or leather/vinyl trousers: the shinier, the better. To complete your wardrobe, a shiny dress, perfect for your wildest parties.
Some looks to rock the 80’s style
We understand that maybe in real life it is difficult to translate this 80’s style completely, but you can take inspiration from the must-haves of the era and include them in more modern outfits. Here are 3 examples of how to wear outfits that are immediately reminiscent of the 80s but are also wearable today.
1. Let it shine
For this first combination, we suggest you leave shyness aside and embrace style in all its glory. To do so, combine your vinyl trousers with a logo T-shirt and a blazer in a bright colour, like this flattering orange. An additional ’80s twist to your outfit? Add a touch of shimmery gold to your shoes!
2. Bold and glow
We’ve already told you that intense colours are another of the must-haves of the season. And fuchsia is undoubtedly one of the key ones. Wear it, for example, on a top and pair it with a shimmer skirt: a perfect look for summer nights and parties.
3. Jumpsuits are for playing (with style!)
Jumpsuits are another big trend that emerged in the 80s, so you should have at least one in your personal collection. You can opt for a neutral colour, such as black, and add accessories that clearly remind you of the decade: yellow ballerinas, a zebra bag and the iconic oversized denim jacket. A perfect option if you like to have versatile garments that allow you to adapt to other styles.
Now it’s time to play with your style. Choose your favourite eighties look and dare to try it on your next summer outing. Tell your Personal Shopper your favourite icons of the era and they’ll be sure to surprise you with their next selection.
