When it comes to women’s fashion in the 80s, there were several key trends that defined the era. From bold colors to oversized silhouettes, there was a certain aesthetic that was unmistakably ’80s. If you want to channel your inner Madonna or Molly Ringwald, here are some key pieces to incorporate into your wardrobe to achieve that iconic 80s look.
Color Blocking
One of the most defining trends of the 80s was color blocking. This involved pairing bold, bright colors together in a way that was eye-catching and attention-grabbing. Think neon pink with electric blue, or lime green with hot pink. To incorporate this trend into your modern wardrobe, look for pieces in vibrant hues and mix and match them for a fun and playful look. Color blocking can be done with anything from tops and bottoms to accessories like belts and jewelry.
Shoulder Pads
Another hallmark of 80s fashion was the oversized shoulder pad trend. This style was popularized by power suits worn by women in the workforce, as well as by fashion icons like Joan Collins in Dynasty. To achieve this look today, opt for blazers or tops with structured shoulders that add volume to your silhouette. Pair them with slim-fitting bottoms to balance out the proportions and create a modern take on this classic trend.
Denim on Denim
Denim was a staple in 80s fashion, and one popular trend was wearing denim on denim. This look involved pairing a denim jacket or shirt with jeans in a similar wash for a cohesive, casual outfit. To recreate this trend today, try layering a denim jacket over a denim mini skirt or wearing a denim shirt tucked into high-waisted jeans. Add some scrunch socks and white sneakers to complete the retro vibe.
Leg Warmers
Leg warmers were a ubiquitous accessory in the 80s, worn over leggings or tights for a sporty, aerobics-inspired look. To bring this trend into the 21st century, try wearing leg warmers over skinny jeans or leggings, paired with chunky sneakers or boots. This adds a fun and quirky touch to your outfit while also providing extra warmth in cooler weather.
Off-the-Shoulder Tops
Off-the-shoulder tops were a popular trend in the 80s, offering a flirty and feminine silhouette that showed off a hint of skin. To rock this trend today, look for off-the-shoulder tops in modern fabrics like cotton or linen, and pair them with high-waisted jeans or a skirt for a chic and contemporary look. Accessorize with statement earrings and a bold lip color to complete the outfit.
Overall, the key to pulling off 80s fashion trends in a modern way is to mix and match elements from the decade with contemporary pieces for a fresh and updated look. Whether you’re channeling your favorite ’80s icon or just looking to inject some fun and nostalgia into your wardrobe, don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colors, oversized silhouettes, and statement accessories. The 80s may be long gone, but its fashion legacy lives on in today’s trends.
You can review our digital products by following us on Etsy.
