Reviving 80s Rock Fashion: How to Flaunt Glam and Grunge
If you’re looking for a style that screams rock and roll, glam and grunge are two of the most iconic fashion movements of the 1980s. Combining the decadence and glamour of the former with the rebellious counterculture of the latter, these two subgenres produced some of the most daring looks of the era. But can they still be relevant in today’s fashion landscape, and how do you pull off these bold styles without looking like you’re stuck in the past? In this article, we explore the key elements of glam and grunge fashion and provide tips on how to incorporate them into your wardrobe.
Glam Fashion: The Essentials
At its core, glam fashion is all about excess, drama, and opulence. Think David Bowie, Madonna, and Freddie Mercury, with their flamboyant costumes, glittering makeup, and over-the-top hairstyles. To get the glam look, consider the following elements:
Sequins and sparkles
Whether you opt for a sequined blazer, a shimmery top, or glittery shoes, incorporating some sparkle into your outfit is a must for glam style. You can go all-out with head-to-toe sequins or tone it down with a single sparkly accessory, but make sure it catches the light and draws attention to you.
Bold prints and colors
Glam fashion is not for the faint of heart, so don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colors and prints. Animal prints, floral patterns, and geometric designs are all fair game, as long as you wear them with confidence. And don’t forget about metallics – gold, silver, and bronze are all staple glam shades.
Dramatic makeup
If there’s one thing that defines glam fashion, it’s bold, dramatic makeup. Thick eyeliner, bright eyeshadow, bold lips, and contouring are all part of the look. But don’t feel like you have to stick to a specific makeup style – experimentation is key here.
Grunge Fashion: The Basics
While glam fashion is all about luxury and glitz, grunge is its antithesis. This subgenre emerged in the Seattle music scene of the late 80s and early 90s, with bands like Nirvana, Soundgarden, and Pearl Jam defining its sound and style. Grunge fashion is characterized by its rough, anti-establishment look, often incorporating thrift store finds and DIY elements. To achieve a grunge-inspired outfit, try the following:
Layering
Grunge fashion is all about layering different textures, patterns, and fabrics. Think flannel shirts over band t-shirts, ripped jeans over fishnet stockings, and oversized sweaters over mini skirts. The key is to mix and match without looking too coordinated.
Denim and leather
Grunge fashion is synonymous with denim and leather – ripped jeans, denim jackets, and leather boots and jackets all capture the look. Don’t worry about keeping your clothes pristine – a little wear and tear adds to the overall aesthetic.
Dark colors and plaids
If you’re going for a grunge-inspired look, make sure to stock up on dark colors like black, grey, and navy. Plaid is also a staple of the grunge look, whether it’s a flannel shirt or a tartan skirt.
Mixing and Matching
While glam and grunge fashion may seem like polar opposites, there are ways to combine the two styles for a unique look. Here are some tips:
Pair glam and grunge separates
Try pairing a sequined blazer with ripped jeans, or a leather jacket with a shimmery skirt. The contrast between the two styles makes for an edgy, unexpected outfit.
Layer on the accessories
Accessories are key to both glam and grunge fashion, so don’t be afraid to pile them on. Statement necklaces, chokers, scarves, and hats are all fair game. And don’t forget about shoes – both glam and grunge fashion call for attention-grabbing footwear.
Experiment with makeup
Just as makeup is a defining element of glam fashion, it can add an edgy twist to a grunge outfit. Consider trying a dark lip color, smoky eye, or bold eyeliner to add drama to your look.
Conclusion
Reviving 80s rock fashion may seem like a daunting task, but incorporating elements of glam and grunge into your wardrobe is easier than you think. Whether you prefer the glitz and glam of sequins and colorful prints or the rough-and-tumble aesthetic of ripped jeans and plaid shirts, there are endless ways to make these styles your own. So go ahead and get creative – after all, fashion should be fun.
