The Atrocious/Amazing Fashion of the 80s: What Were People Thinking?!

28 Jul 2024

Ah, the 1980s. A decade of big hair, even bigger shoulder pads, and a whole lot of neon. It was a time when fashion threw all caution to the wind, embracing bold colors, clashing patterns, and an anything-goes attitude. But let’s be real, some of those trends were questionable, even back then. From the parachute pants that made everyone look like they were carrying a tent to the acid-wash denim that was impossible to miss (and impossible to love), the 80s were a wild ride for fashion.

So, what exactly were people wearing in the 80s? Picture this: Madonna strutting her stuff in fishnet stockings, ripped lace, and a “Boy Toy” belt. Think ripped jeans, leggings with leg warmers (yes, leg warmers!), and oversized sweatshirts worn off the shoulder. It was a time of experimentation and self-expression, where more was definitely more.

But beyond the crazy trends, the 80s were a melting pot of different styles. You had your preppy kids rocking polo shirts with the collars popped, your rockers in ripped denim and band tees, and your pop princesses in neon everything. It was a decade that celebrated individuality, where everyone could find a trend to call their own (even if that trend involved a whole lot of spandex).

Of course, we can’t talk about 80s fashion without mentioning the influence of music videos. MTV was all the rage, and artists like Michael Jackson, Prince, and Cyndi Lauper dictated what was cool and what wasn’t. Suddenly, everyone wanted to dress like their favorite pop star, and the bolder, the brighter, the better. It was a time when fashion became a form of fandom, and everyone wanted to be a part of the show.

Looking back, it’s easy to laugh (or cringe) at some of the fashion choices of the 80s. But there’s no denying that the decade left an indelible mark on the world of style. It was a time of experimentation, self-expression, and a whole lot of fun. And who knows, maybe some of those trends will even make a comeback one day. After all, fashion is cyclical, and what’s old is often new again. But let's just hope those shoulder pads stay in the past where they belong.

Pros and Cons of 80s Fashion

Let’s be real, 80s fashion was a mixed bag. For every iconic look, there was a trend that left us scratching our heads.

Pros	Cons
Bold and expressive	Often impractical and uncomfortable
Celebrated individuality	Some trends haven't aged well
Influenced by music and pop culture	Reliance on synthetic fabrics

80s Fashion FAQs

Still scratching your head about the fashion choices of the 80s? We’ve got answers!

Q: What were the most popular colors in the 80s?

A: Think neon! Bright pink, electric blue, vibrant yellow, and shocking green were all the rage.

Q: What were some of the biggest fashion icons of the 80s?

A: Madonna, Michael Jackson, Prince, Cyndi Lauper, Princess Diana, and David Bowie were just a few of the trendsetters of the decade.

Q: Did people really wear leg warmers on the street?

A: Believe it or not, yes! Thanks to movies like Flashdance, leg warmers became a surprisingly popular fashion accessory.

Q: Where can I find authentic 80s clothes today?

A: Your best bet is to scour thrift stores, vintage shops, or online marketplaces like Etsy and eBay.

The 1980s were a time of bold experimentation in fashion, a kaleidoscope of neon colors, exaggerated silhouettes, and a touch of rebellion. From the enduring appeal of ripped denim and leather jackets to the questionable legacy of leg warmers and shoulder pads, the decade’s fashion trends continue to fascinate and inspire. Whether you love it or love to laugh at it, there’s no denying the impact of 80s fashion. So, embrace the boldness, dig out your mom’s old shoulder pads (maybe), and get ready to party like it’s 1989!