Take a Stroll Down Memory Lane with Our Selection of 100 + Nostalgic 80s Outfits

Interiors 21-8-2018 Archzine 4614

So far we’ve partied in 1920s style like the Great Gatsby, and marveled at the offbeat trends of the 1990s. Now it’s time to look at another time period, famed for its unusual fashion styles – the 1980s. After all, there is a reason they were known as the decade of decadence! 80s outfits were bigger, brighter and bolder, and while some of them can really make us laugh or cringe today, others have achieved cult status, and can be seen on contemporary celebs and fashionistas.

It’s worth noting that many aspects of our lives today began taking shape in the 1980s. For example, MTV was launched in 1981, giving a voice to young people, and focusing on their interests. In addition, the first commercial mobile phone became available in 1984, and the World Wide Web saw the light of day in 1989 (although it would take several years for it to become mainstream). Walkmans and VCR players, created in the 70s, became accessible to the general public in the 80s, thereby transforming the childhood of an entire generation.

With so many social changes, it is hardly surprising that the fashion of the decade was equally innovative and refreshingly different. Bold shapes and colors dominated the streets, hairstyles were wild and voluminous, and everything was just a little bit, well, extra. In ths article, we will explore a few key 80s styles which are still relevant today, before allowing you to enjoy a gallery full of outrageous clothes from the decade of decadence!

The oversized denim jacket and jeans combo – one of many 80s outfits fashionable at the moment

80s outfits, oversized denim jacket, worn over a black t-shirt, and baggy jeans, by drew barrymore, next image shows kylie jenner, in similar attire

Before we get started, check out this amazing 80s outfits lookbook!

The glam divas

Although glam rock and metal were still very popular in the early 80s, by the second part of the decade pop reigned supreme. Stars like Micheal Jackson and Madonna not only provided excellent music to groove to, but also inspired people to be braver with their fashion choices. On one ocassion they two mainstream royalties even went as far as to appear in lavish, coordinated white sequin outfits.

Ladies tried to copy Madonna’s “punk seductress” look en mase, and her signature ultra mini ra ra skirts, bustiers, crop tops, revealing sheer dresses and chunky cross necklasses became key items in the closets of female fashionistas. Men meanwhile, were busy imitating the King of Pop by buying bright-colored biker jackets, skinny leather trousers and flashy accessories. You may have noticed that someof these trends are seeing a comeback at the moment, as people are coming up with their own reinterpretations of the 80s glam style.

Madonna’s signiture 80s style reimagined today

Channeling your inner Michael Jackson…

The fitness fanatics

Gyms became hugely popular in the 1980, sparking a widespread interest in fitness culture and apparel. Everyone wanted to better themselves and to look fit, healthy and active. As a result, simple and comfortable sports clothing became a fashion statement and sales of oversized t-shirts and spandex leggings, stretchy bodysuits, and legwarmers skyrocketed. The trend was fueled even more by films like Dirty Dancing and Flashdance, and by the growing popularity of Aerobics. In winter, gym apparel was replaced by the so called ski prep style, characterized by shiny polyester tracksuits and roll neck sweaters. It was a preferred attire for well to do individuals who wanted to showcase their active lifestyle.

In the 80s eople wore sports apparel as casual every day clothing, and it was even acceptable to attend events dressed in leggings or slacks. Sound familiar? It seems that fitnes clothing is still very much a thing, judging by the popularity of brands like Lululemon.

80s outfits for active ladies

Let’s not forget the 80s roller skating craze

What were the defining trends of the 80s? Find out in the video bellow:

The luxury brand lovers

Much like today, 80s people were obsessed with big brand names. Preps, for example, opted for apparel manufactured by Lacoste and Esprit. Those partial to fitness clothes, on the other hand, turned to Puma, Nike, Reebok and Adidas. The punk rockers favored Vivienne Westwood, and the fashion consious and well-off individuals splurged on luxury garments by brands such as Gucci, Jean Paul Gaultier and Polo by Ralph Lauren. Yet, regardless of social status or style prferences, one thing was certain – the logo simply had to be visible. This trend continued up to the 90s and then suffered a decline in the early 2000s, when they were considered too flashy and even tacky. Today they are coming back in style, albeit in a self-ironizing, tongue-in-cheek manner.

An ironic recreation of a 80s outfit, complete with a bold, kitsch print, and a chunky brand name logo

Wrangler is one of many brands seeking to bring back logo t-shirts

Fashion and nostalgia

One unlikely reason for 80s outfits to be making a comeback is the TV series Stranger Things. Despite dealing with spooky monsters and unsettling events, the show is filled with nostalgia for a “simpler time,” when children still played outside with their bikes, and most of us couldn’t even imagine the wonders of the world wide web. The clothes depicted in the show are far from the excess of the glam divas and fitness fanatics. Soft sweaters, baggy jeans, plaid shirts and flannel-lined jackets underline the idea of comfort, thereby strengthening the sense of nostalgia. I can almost hear my parents say “Remeber the days when clothes were about being comfortable? Today’s kids are all about fashion fads!”

Usurprisingly, the show has inspired numerous style tutorials and lookbooks, some of which you can find further down in this article.

Stranger things – making plaid cool again

Natalia Dyer as Nancy in Stranger Things

One of the many video tutorials, devoted to Stranger Things inspired 80s outfits

Joe Keery as Steve Harrington

Season 2 of the show delved into 80s fashion tredns even deeper, introducing characters partial to the punk rock style

Typical 80s kids clothes

And now we invite you to take a look at our selection of outfits from (and inspired by) the 80. We have also included plenty of throwbacks to your favourite shows, artists and celebs. And if you want even more amazing 80s outfits ideas, check out our fashion section. We have plenty of images and facts for the decade of decadense!

We love this timeless button up denim skirt and striped top combo!