The Decade of Decadence: A Guide to Fashion in the 80’s
The 80s was a decade of bold fashion choices, a time when shoulder pads and neon were in vogue, and musicians like Madonna and Michael Jackson inspired millions with their unique sense of style. In this guide, we explore the key fashion trends of the 80s, examining the cultural and social factors that influenced them.
Big Hair and Bold Shoulders
One of the defining features of 80s fashion was big hair. Women and men alike rocked voluminous hairstyles, often requiring large amounts of hairspray to maintain their height. The style was inspired by the rock bands of the time, such as Bon Jovi and Guns N’ Roses, who flaunted flowing locks on stage.
Another significant trend was bold shoulders. Puffy, structured sleeves were seen on everything from blouses to jackets, giving an exaggerated, almost cartoonish, look to the upper body. This look was popularized by iconic movies such as Working Girl and Flashdance and became a symbol of female empowerment in the workplace.
Neon and Acid Wash
The 80s was also a time of bright colors and bold patterns. Neon hues, such as hot pink and lime green, were staples in fashion, from clothing to accessories such as belts and earrings. Acid wash denim, popularized by Madonna in her “Material Girl” music video, was another significant trend.
The popularity of these bright colors and bold patterns reflected the social and cultural changes of the time. The 80s marked an era of prosperity and excess, with many people indulging in luxurious lifestyles.
Punk and New Wave
The 80s was a time of great musical innovation, with genres such as punk and new wave coming to prominence. This revolution in music was reflected in fashion, with punk and new wave-inspired styles becoming fashionable.
Punk fashion was characterized by leather jackets, ripped jeans, and DIY accessories such as safety pin earrings. New wave fashion, on the other hand, was more minimalist and futuristic, featuring metallic fabrics and avant-garde hairstyles.
Conclusion
The 80s was a decade of change, innovation, and bold fashion choices. From big hair to bold shoulders, neon to acid wash, punk to new wave, every trend reflected the cultural and social changes of the time. Today, 80s fashion is enjoying a resurgence, with designers and fashion houses drawing inspiration from the decade to create modern looks with a retro twist.
