'80s fashion: how to create '80s outfits with a modern twist
The 1980s was an era of extreme trends, from power dressing and shoulder pads to acid-wash denim and neon hues. Many of these trends are making a comeback but in a more modern, versatile, and wearable way. Iconic '80s pieces such as mini dresses, jogging suits, and tapered trousers have been reimagined with oversized cuts and high-waisted silhouettes. Here’s how you can create your '80s-inspired outfit to incorporate this trend into your everyday wardrobe.
'80s fashion: then and now
Fashion in the 1980s was bold, rebellious, and, above all, expressive. The unwritten motto of the decade? "More is more." Oversized shoulder pads, vibrant neon hues, exaggerated silhouettes, and glossy materials such as patent leather and metallics dominated the era. The '80s fashion reflected the cultural landscape – influenced by economic growth, the fitness craze, and the rise of pop culture – all of which left a lasting imprint on '80s style.
Today, the eccentric fashion of the '80s is making a comeback, but in a more modern and wearable form. The iconic shoulder pads now offer a refined, sophisticated touch, neon colours are used sparingly as accents, and oversized cuts – such as in blazers or sweatshirts – are paired with more fitted pieces to create a balanced, everyday look. In this way, key elements of '80s fashion can be reimagined for the modern wardrobe while still capturing the spirit of a bygone era.
Typical '80s outfits: '80s style revival
From oversized blazers to neon colours, '80s fashion is back, proving it’s more than just a retro trend. These iconic styles and outfits inspire today’s fashion world, reinvented with a contemporary twist.
'80s fashion: aerobics and sportswear style
The fitness boom of the 1980s brought leggings, vibrant tracksuits, headbands, and cropped sweatshirts into fashion. Today, these sporty styles are making a comeback through the athleisure trend, with patterned leggings, oversized hoodies, and trainers as the basis of a stylish yet comfortable everyday outfit. Tracksuits are also back in fashion, often paired with trainers and a belt bag to complete the look.
'80s style: power dressing
In the 1980s, power dressing became a symbol of strength and confidence for all women who were making their way in the professional world. Shoulder pads, eccentric blazers, jumpsuits, and tailored suits defined the look and created a powerful silhouette. Today, power dressing is being reinterpreted. Oversized blazers with clean lines now exude modern elegance and versatility, often combined with slim-fit trousers or jeans for an effortless style. While shoulder pads are more subtle, they still create an empowering silhouette.
'80s outfits: acid-wash jeans and denim-on-denim
Embroidered, patched, or in faded blue, denim embodied the rebellious spirit and experimental nature of 1980s fashion. Nothing was more iconic than a pair of acid-wash jeans or head-to-toe denim outfits. Today, these key pieces have made a comeback in more modern variations. The denim-on-denim trend has also been reinterpreted, with oversized denim jackets paired with high-waisted jeans in vintage washes – a timeless look when styled with modern trainers and accessories. For a distinctive touch, coloured denim pieces with striking details can add an extra flair to your '80s-inspired look.
Puszyste, duże objętościowo fryzury i przyciągające wzrok akcesoria do włosów, takie jak gumki, kolorowe spinki lub opaski do włosów, były typowe dla lat 80. Dziś dodatki te dopełniają stylizacje w duchu tamtych lat i przywracają urok retro.
'80s style: cuts and silhouettes of the 1980s
The cuts and silhouettes of 1980s fashion were bold and stunning: oversized, extravagant and full of power. Today, these iconic silhouettes have been reinterpreted and made more subtle and wearable in everyday life.
Here are the iconic cuts and shapes of '80s fashion:
Shoulder pads: today, they are more subtle yet still achieve the same effect. Shoulder pads draw attention to the upper body, creating the illusion of a narrower waist. Shoulder pads are no longer limited to jackets and blazers but can also be found in shirts and dresses.
Oversized fit: the voluminous cuts of 1980s fashion – whether blazers, coats, or sweatshirts – are more on-trend than ever. Nowadays, oversized tops are often paired with slim-fitting trousers to create a balanced silhouette.
High waist: high-waisted styles were a staple of 1980s fashion, whether in trousers, skirts, or shorts. Even today, they remain a key element of modern wardrobes, frequently styled with crop tops or tucked-in tops to accentuate the waist and maintain a sleek and structured look.
Ruffles: the dramatic ruffles of the 1980s are also back in fashion. While still fashionable, modern ruffles are more refined, and often featured in blouses, dresses, and skirts.
Puffed sleeves: voluminous sleeves, a signature feature of 1980s blouses and dresses, are making a stylish comeback. They are now more subtle and paired with minimalist pieces, creating an elegant yet wearable look for everyday fashion.
'80s fashion: colours and patterns of the '80s style
The outfits of the 1980s were known for their audacious neon colours and shimmering metallic details. These vibrant hues and patterns give every outfit the retro charm of that decade:
Neon colours
Geometric patterns
Eye-catching prints
Stripes
Animal prints
Colour blocking
Glitter and metallic elements
Today, bright colours and shiny materials are making their way back into fashion trends, but they are typically used as accents. When combined with neutral tones such as black, white or beige, neon accents, animal prints and metallic pieces create a modern and balanced look.
'80s fashion not only played with colour but also with bold pattern combinations: stripes, checks, and animal prints can all be mixed for a statement outfit!
'80s style: fabrics for the '80s fashion revival
The materials used in the 1980s were versatile and reflected the trends of the decade, characterised by shiny, textured, and eye-catching designs. From shimmery patent leather to robust denim and comfortable sportswear, the fabrics of the 1980s showcased a mix of glamour and everyday fashion. Key materials included:
Denim
Sportswear
Leather
Patent leather
Metallic fabrics
Sequins
In the 1980s, waist belts became the most popular accessory to emphasise your figure. They were worn with blazers, dresses, and even coats, often in wide styles featuring buckles or bold studs. This key accessory created a typical hourglass silhouette and added structure to any outfit.
'80s style: key pieces for a modern '80s-inspired outfit
80s fashion was characterised by expressive and colourful garments that captured the spirit of the decade. Today, these key pieces can be reinterpreted and combined with modern items, adding a touch of '80s charm to any outfit.
Oversized blazers and trouser suits
The oversized blazer is a hallmark of 1980s power dressing. Today, it is styled more modernly, often paired with tight trousers, crop tops, or even sporty trainers. The shoulder pads are slimmer than they were in the past, yet they still create a striking silhouette. Additionally, trouser suits with unique cuts and bold colours are characteristic of that era and have become a significant part of the '80s revival in fashion.
Neon colours and colour-blocking
Neon colours and colour-blocking designs evoke the vibrant atmosphere of the 1980s. Today, jumpers, jackets, and tracksuits in bright neon shades or featuring bold colour-blocking can be paired with neutral tones to create a balanced look that is perfect for everyday fashion.
Tapered trousers
The typical silhouette of tapered trousers or mom jeans with a wider cut at the hips and a narrower leg is back in fashion. These trousers are now made from modern fabrics and can be paired with plain tops or blazers to achieve a contemporary look.
Denim
Denim was a staple of the 1980s, characterized by acid-wash jeans, double denim outfits, and elaborate embellishments like patches and embroidery. Today, denim is once again very popular and plays a central role in many modern outfits. High-waisted mom jeans and oversized denim jackets are key pieces in contemporary fashion trends. Additionally, denim dresses and skirts that echo '80s styles are also very much in vogue.
Minidresses and short skirts
Minidresses were very popular in the 1980s. They were often made of shimmering fabrics and decorated with ruffles or puffed sleeves. Today, they have made a comeback in fashion, although with a more understated approach. The contemporary versions feature simpler, minimalist designs that can be paired with boots or blazers to create a modern look.
Leggings and tracksuits
The iconic sports outfits of the 1980s are making a comeback with the athleisure trend. By pairing these outfits with modern sneakers or simple basics, you can easily achieve a stylish retro look. Brightly coloured or animal print leggings can be combined with chunky sneakers, sweatshirts, or blouses for a trendy outfit.
Large, eye-catching earrings, wide necklaces and bracelets are typical of 1980s fashion and can still add an extra touch to your outfit today. You can wear them as a highlight for a minimalist outfit and add a deliberately retro accent.
'80s fashion for men: '80s-inspired outfits for men
The 1980s was an era of bold and extravagant style for men, characterised by its surprising variety. From casual denim to elegant power looks, men's fashion in the '80s showcased versatility that remains exciting today. With a modern twist, you can still create stylish and wearable outfits inspired by that decade.
Denim in the spotlight: denim jackets and acid-wash trousers were essential garments in the '80s. You can modernise these by pairing them with simple basics like a white T-shirt and sneakers, or you might opt for the trendy ‘denim on denim’ look.
Sporty and casual: tracksuits and anoraks were all the rage in the '80s. Nowadays, you can pair them with stylish trainers for a fresh take. Retro trainers in bright colours work well with loose-fitting tracksuits and colour-blocked jackets.
Power dressing for men: the 1980s saw the birth of men's suits with broad shoulders and striking silhouettes. For a contemporary look, choose an oversized jacket and pair it with simple trousers. You can wear it with a distinctive shirt, a turtleneck jumper or a simple T-shirt.
Casual, sporty or elegant: men's fashion from the '80s provides numerous opportunities to incorporate retro elements into modern looks. The key is to mix standout pieces with simpler, contemporary clothing to achieve a perfect balance between vintage flair and modern style.
Conclusion: '80s fashion is back
The revival of '80s fashion highlights the timelessness and versatility of that decade. Today, key pieces from the '80s are being reinterpreted and simplified to enhance their retro appeal and make them more wearable in the modern era. Consider incorporating neon garments or oversized blazers into your wardrobe to bring the spirit of the '80s back to life!
