1980s Fads and Fashion

80s Fashion Basics

The 1980s have been deemed an era of larger than life proportions – from the big hair to the bold neon colors, fads from this time period were anything but quiet. Instead, this era ushered in big and bold styles that screamed individualism. Ironically, the '80s years also saw a mix of fashions that were very different from one another – but extremism still played a major part in this aspect. For example, one of the most popular '80s fads was fashion inspirations with super sex appeal, such as black lace and bustiers (courtesy of Madonna's influence) and off-the shoulder tops for women. Modest feminine dresses in classic Laura Ashley designs, however, were also incredibly popular.

The basics for '80s apparel, whether on the demure side or screaming sex apparel, were strong, colorful, and statement-making.

1980s Fads and Fashions for Women

Some of the 80s fashions may make you cringe now, but let's face it, the color overload, layering, and more-is-better fashion philosophy definitely reflected a spirit of fun. What else can you say about black lace fingerless gloves, tons of neon plastic bangle bracelets, and jelly shoes? Here are some of the most essential '80s fashions for women:

Love Your Leggings

A good '80s girl owned plenty of leggings - stretchy, fitted, often black, and cropped way above the ankle. Pair leggings with a short skirt and t-shirt, blousy tunic, dress, or practically anything else for instant '80s flair. In modern fashion, you'll see high-end designers like Dolce and Gabbana with leggings in their lineups. Go for funky stripes or opt for more sophisticated materials like velvet for a modern upgrade on this classic '80s clothing.

Loco for Layers

Layering is another classic 1980s fashion fad. This appeared from head to toe. Polos or tees were layered with boxy jackets, multiple colorful t-shirts were layered with leggings or jeans, and skirts and dresses layered with tights, leggings, or even stirrup pants. Even socks were layered! Or the quintessential '80s legwarmer was layered over tights, jeans, leggings, or pants. Don’t forget the accessories – they weren't exempt from the layering fad. Lots of necklaces and tons of bracelets finished off any fashionable '80s ensemble.

Roll It Up

Sleeves and pants cuffs weren't to be worn as is in the '90s. Roll up the sleeves of your layered t-shirts, and definitely, 'French' roll or cuff all your jeans to get the pegged jeans look.

Casual Was Cool

While many women today wouldn’t be caught dead strutting an aerobics leotard around town, the '80s were big on making ultra casual a cool fad. Exercise clothing, especially aerobics leotards and biker shorts, were popular everyday staples. Like other styles, these were often layered. Sweat suits were another type of casual wear that was frequently donned in the '80s.

80s Jeans Fashions

An '80s woman's wardrobe wasn't complete without the addition of some great pairs of jeans. In the 1980s, that meant they needed to be one of three things: acid washed, ripped/torn, or skin tight. Acid washed denim mini skirts and jean jackets were also popular.

While acid-washes and completely ripped apart jeans aren’t as emergent in modern fashion, skinny jeans have made a huge comeback and have gone from the runway to retailer. Wondering how to wear skinny jeans today? For sophisticated '80s appeal, skip the layered neon t-shirts and opt for a slightly loose tunic ending at the hip or a pretty empire waist top. Finish off with a nice pair of heels or some cute flats.

Going Big: The 80s Oversize Fashion Fad

Another big fad for the '80s was going with oversize apparel and accessories. Things like huge cardigan sweaters, oversize Mickey and Minnie sweatshirts, and pants that were big and baggy around the hips and tapered at the ankles were the rage, especially in the late '80s. Other oversize 1980s items included long sweater dresses (worn over tights or leggings) and accessorized with huge fashionable belts, big and boxy blazers for women with shoulder pads, bat-wing style blouses that made a big billow and tapered in at the wrist, and overalls.

Accessories also got the bigger-is-better treatment, with huge colorful earrings and fat shoelaces taking center stage.

1980s fads and fashions were dynamic and overall had many fun elements. Going all out '80s can be a bit garish today, so unless you’re attending an '80s party, opt for infusing a few fun elements of the era into your clothing or accessory choices to stave off wardrobe boredom.