Fashion Flashback: Late 80s Fashion for Women

03 Aug 2024

Remember shoulder pads so big they could double as aircraft wings? The era when leggings were considered pants (and paired with everything)? That, my friends, was the glorious, the excessive, the totally tubular world of late 80s women’s fashion. A time when bigger was always better and no outfit was complete without a healthy dose of neon, spandex, or statement jewelry that could make its own headlines.

The late 80s weren't just about oversized silhouettes and bright colors (though there was plenty of that). This era was a fascinating mash-up of different trends, reflecting the changing social and economic landscape. Women were stepping into more powerful roles in the workforce, and their wardrobes followed suit. The "power dressing" trend emerged, with women rocking sharp, tailored suits with strong shoulders and a "take-no-prisoners" attitude. Think Melanie Griffith in Working Girl – all ambition and shoulder pads, ready to shatter that glass ceiling.

But the late 80s were also about pushing boundaries and expressing individuality. This period saw a rise in streetwear and athletic-inspired fashion, with sneakers becoming a fashion statement. Think Run DMC and Salt-N-Pepa—bold, comfortable, and unapologetically cool. And then there was the vibrant, dance-fueled energy of the decade finding its way into fashion, with neon colors, geometric patterns, and body-conscious silhouettes taking center stage.

The beauty of late 80s fashion lies in its versatility and its unapologetic embrace of self-expression. It was a time for bold choices and experimentation, where women weren't afraid to mix and match different styles, colors, and textures to create their own unique looks. It was a glorious hot mess of trends, and somehow, it worked.

Today, late 80s fashion continues to inspire and influence contemporary style. From the resurgence of mom jeans and scrunchies to the comeback of power suits and statement earrings, echoes of the decade can be seen everywhere. This era of bold silhouettes and even bolder attitudes reminds us that fashion can be fun, expressive, and a powerful tool for self-discovery. So, dig out that neon windbreaker, slip on some chunky sneakers, and don't forget the hairspray – it’s time to party like it’s 1989!

Advantages and Disadvantages of Revisiting Late 80s Fashion Today

Advantages	Disadvantages
Unique and expressive style Opportunity to embrace bold silhouettes and colors Vintage finds can be affordable and sustainable	Some trends can be difficult to pull off in a modern context Finding the right fit and silhouette can be challenging Risk of looking costume-y if not styled carefully

5 Best Practices for Incorporating Late 80s Fashion Today

Here’s the thing about revisiting past trends: You don’t want to look like you just stepped out of a time capsule (unless that’s your thing, then rock on!). The key to successfully incorporating elements of late 80s fashion is to find a balance between the old and the new, creating a look that feels fresh, modern, and uniquely you.

Start with Statement Pieces: You don’t need to go full-on 80s from head to toe. Instead, start by incorporating one or two statement pieces into your existing wardrobe. A brightly colored blazer, a pair of high-waisted mom jeans, or some chunky gold earrings can instantly add a touch of 80s flair.
Embrace Denim on Denim: The Canadian tuxedo was all the rage back then, and it’s made a serious comeback. Pair different denim washes and textures for a modern take on this classic 80s look.
Modernize the Power Suit: The structured silhouette of a power suit is eternally chic, but to avoid looking dated, opt for modern cuts and fabrics. Pair it with a simple t-shirt and sneakers for a more relaxed and contemporary feel.
Accessorize Strategically: Accessories are the key to nailing any decade-inspired look. Chunky gold jewelry, statement belts, scrunchies, and oversized sunglasses can instantly add a touch of 80s cool to any outfit.
Have Fun and Experiment! Fashion is all about expressing yourself, so have fun experimenting with different trends and see what works for you. The beauty of late 80s fashion is its versatility, so don't be afraid to mix and match different styles and create a look that's uniquely you.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions About Late 80s Fashion Answered

Still have questions about the glorious, sometimes confusing world of late 80s fashion? We’ve got you covered.

Q: What shoes were popular in the late 80s?
A: The late 80s were a footwear free zone! Sneakers, especially white sneakers, were a huge trend, as were loafers, Doc Martens, and heels—from stilettos to slouchy boots.
Q: What were some popular hairstyles for women in the late 80s?
A: Big hair, don’t care! Think voluminous curls, side ponytails, crimped waves, and plenty of hairspray.
Q: Where can I find authentic late 80s clothing?
A: Thrift stores, vintage shops, and online marketplaces like Etsy and eBay are great places to find hidden gems from the late 80s.
Q: What are some iconic late 80s movies or TV shows for fashion inspiration?
A: Think Working Girl, Pretty in Pink, Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club, and Moonstruck, just to name a few.

The late 1980s stand out as a captivating period in fashion history, particularly for women. This era was about so much more than just shoulder pads and neon colors (though, let’s be honest, those were pretty fantastic). It was about women embracing their power, expressing their individuality, and challenging the norms. The enduring appeal of late 80s fashion lies in its ability to inspire confidence, encourage experimentation, and remind us that fashion can be a powerful form of self-expression. So, whether you're drawn to the power suits, the bold accessories, or the unapologetically bright colors, the late 80s offer a treasure trove of inspiration for those looking to add a little retro flair to their modern wardrobes.