What Did Men Wear in the 80s: A Blast from the Past

19 May 2024

Remember the days of leg warmers, neon colors, and big hair? The 80s were a time of bold fashion choices for both men and women, with trends often reflecting the vibrant music scene, burgeoning pop culture, and a sense of rebellion against the norm. If you've ever wondered what men wore back in the days of shoulder pads and Walkmans, buckle up. We're about to take a trip down memory lane to explore the fascinating world of 1980s men's fashion.

The 80s saw a fascinating clash of styles. On one hand, you had the rise of preppy fashion, with its polo shirts, khaki pants, and boat shoes, often favored by the "yuppie" culture depicted in movies like "Wall Street." Then there was the athletic wear craze, fueled by the fitness boom and icons like Jane Fonda and Richard Simmons. Tracksuits, headbands, and sneakers weren't just for the gym anymore; they were hitting the streets with a vengeance.

And who could forget the influence of music on men's clothing in the 80s? Pop icons like Michael Jackson and Prince, along with the rise of MTV, brought about an era of androgynous fashion. Leather jackets, skinny jeans, bold prints, and statement accessories became synonymous with the decade's musical revolution. Think Boy George, Duran Duran, and David Bowie for inspiration.

Beyond individual trends, what truly defined 80s men's fashion was its unabashed embrace of experimentation and self-expression. Men weren't afraid to play with colors, textures, and silhouettes, pushing the boundaries of traditional masculinity and redefining what it meant to be fashionable. From ripped jeans and acid-wash denim to Members Only jackets and chunky gold jewelry, the 80s were all about making a statement.

This era of men's fashion wasn't without its critics, of course. Some of the trends, when viewed through today's lens, might appear outlandish or even comical. But love it or laugh at it, there's no denying the lasting impact of 80s men's fashion. It was a time of bold creativity and a departure from the norm, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire designers and trendsetters today. Whether it's the resurgence of athleisure, the comeback of mom jeans (or should we say, "dad jeans"?), or the modern embrace of gender-fluid clothing, the echoes of the 80s are undeniable.

Advantages and Disadvantages of 80s Men's Fashion

Advantages	Disadvantages
Expressive and Individualistic	Some Trends Were Over-the-Top
Embrace of Bold Colors and Patterns	Certain Fabrics Didn't Age Well
Rise of Comfortable Athleisure	Potential for Fashion Faux Pas

Best Practices for Incorporating 80s Style Today

While we might not recommend donning a full-on 80s outfit head-to-toe (unless it's for a themed party!), incorporating elements of the decade's fashion into your modern wardrobe can add a touch of retro cool.

Start with Statement Pieces: A vintage leather jacket, a pair of acid-wash jeans, or a bold graphic tee can instantly elevate your look with a hint of 80s flair.
Embrace Denim: Denim was huge in the 80s, so don't be afraid to rock a denim jacket, jeans, or even a denim shirt. Opt for modern fits and washes to avoid looking dated.
Accessorize Wisely: Think chunky watches, aviator sunglasses, and retro sneakers. These accessories can add a subtle nod to the 80s without looking costume-y.
Experiment with Prints: Geometric patterns, stripes, and bold graphics were all the rage in the 80s. Try incorporating a printed shirt or accessory into your outfit for a touch of retro fun.
Keep it Modern: Balance out the retro vibes with modern pieces. Pair a vintage band tee with slim-fit jeans and sleek sneakers, or rock a bomber jacket with tailored trousers.

The 1980s were a time of significant change and cultural shifts, and men's fashion was no exception. From the rise of preppy and athletic styles to the influence of music icons and the embrace of self-expression, 80s men's fashion was a melting pot of trends, both unforgettable and, at times, outrageous. While some looks might be best left in the past, the decade's influence on men's style continues to resonate today, reminding us to embrace individuality, experiment with fashion, and have fun with our clothing choices. So, the next time you're looking to add a little retro flair to your outfit, take a page from the 80s playbook—you might be surprised at how stylish the past can be.