14 Fashion Trends From The '80s That Will Live On In Our Hearts Forever
When has there ever been another time when puffed sleeves were considered even mildly attractive?
The 1980s left behind a fashion trail that still gets people talking, from oversized shoulders to bold jewelry and everything in between. Some trends were loud, some were playful, and some were so over the top that they became unforgettable.
This look back gathers the styles that defined the decade and the people who wore them best. From aerobics gear to Madonna-inspired glam, the mix of excess and attitude made '80s fashion impossible to ignore.
Here are 14 trends that still have a place in style history.
1. Outlandish Jewelry
Oversized earrings, bangles, and beads were all the rage in the '80s. Madonna was the classic example, rocking bows, hoop earrings, studs, and animal print.
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To be fair, Ray-Bans have never really gone out of style, but they were especially popular in the '80s. Think Tom Cruise in Risky Business.
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Let's be honest: shoulder pads were never a good look; they appeared entirely unnatural and awkward. And then there were puffy sleeves—eek!
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4. Polka Dots
Polka dot dresses, tops, and skirts were a favorite of Princess Diana throughout the '80s. They were initially popular in the '50s but made a comeback during the '80s, often worn with a ruffled skirt and a giant PVC belt (obviously).
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5. Fitness and Aerobics Fashion
Aerobics was the biggest fitness craze in the '80s. Jane Fonda's workout videos were selling out, and the fitness fashion trend followed suit.
Olivia Newton-John's 'Physical' music video sparked an obsession with women's aerobics gear. Leggings, leg warmers, headbands, and leotards were often paired with an oversized sweatshirt for good measure.
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6. Animal Print
Animal print, particularly zebra, leopard, and snakeskin, was on trend in the '80s for both males and females. Featured on jackets, shoes, skirts, and pretty much anything, people loved it!
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And just like the “good old days” vibe in these vintage photos of your grandparents built different, the ‘80s look was a whole different world.
7. Drawstring Gym Shorts
Gym shorts, or Dolphin shorts, with a drawstring were also popular in the '80s. They were usually one color with contrasting edging, generally white.
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8. Tight-Rolled Jeans
In the late '80s, rolled jeans were a big hit with both men and women. People everywhere started rolling up their tight-fitting jeans—if they were acid-washed, you were even more fabulous!
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9. Slogan T-Shirts
We've all seen the "Frankie Says Relax" and "Choose Life" t-shirts. They originated in the early '80s thanks to Wham and Frankie Goes to Hollywood.
People are still wearing these shirts today. In fact, they are even more popular now than they were in the '80s!
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10. Skater Skirts, Ra-Ras, and Mini Skirts
Okay, we all know mini skirts were huge in the '60s, but when they reemerged in the '80s, they were generally worn with leggings or leg warmers. Minis were usually tightly fitted, whereas ra-ra skirts were more like tutus.
Skater skirts were also popular in the '80s. They were similar to ra-ra skirts, often featuring layers of flat or puffy fabric.
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11. Denim Jeans and Jackets
If you didn't own a pair of Levi's in the '80s, were you even there? Denim was essential to an '80s wardrobe, especially after Nick Kamen appeared in a Levi's 501 jeans ad in 1985.
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12. The New Romantic Scene
New Romanticism was a big deal in the early '80s. Men wearing flamboyant shirts and makeup became as common as shoulder pads and puffy sleeves.
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13. Heavy Makeup
Bold and colorful makeup was a necessity in the '80s, whether you were male or female. Think Boy George (who is still rocking it today) and Adam and the Ants.
Heavy lipstick, eyeliner, and brightly colored eyeshadows were essential for the girls. Oh, and blusher that was usually far too dark for your skin tone.
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14. The Madonna Look
Madonna was an '80s fashion trend all on her own. With her teased hair, crucifix jewelry, bangles, and fishnet stockings, she meant business, and so did every teenage girl trying to imitate her.
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So, there you have it: 14 fashion trends from the '80s that will live on in our hearts forever. Which one is your favorite?
Were you a denim-on-denim wearer or a shoulder pads and puffy sleeves kind of person? Or perhaps you were more of a "leggings and oversized jumper" kind of guy or gal.
No matter your style, we're sure you will never forget the '80s and the fashion trends that came along with them. May blue eyeshadow and huge earrings never be forgotten.
The decade really did know how to make an entrance.
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