Fashion trends come and go, which is why designers have a new collection for every season. What most fashion enthusiasts know, however, is that many trends are just new visions of past trends. That’s the case now with 1980s fashion. It’s coming back strong, so demand for vintage clothing pieces from that era is increasing.
The 1980s Wasn’t That Long Ago!
Walking into a clothing shop that sells new items and secondhand pieces, I was drawn to their “Vintage Corner,” where they had a prairie boho prom dress, a big-shouldered business suit, high-waisted acid-washed jeans, and some leg warmers. It was as if I had traveled back in time (in a Delorean modified with nuclear fusion, of course) to my closet during my junior year of high school. They had ruffled blouses, chunky jewelry, and even stirrup pants. Vintage? No, it can’t be; the eighties were just a few years ago, right?
In clothing, “vintage” is commonly defined as any piece of apparel older than 20 years but less than 100 years. So, yes, that puts the 1980s smack in the middle of vintage, and the looks are back. While some designers are making new items with elements found in 80s fashion, thrifting is such a hot trend, and fans of the look are combing the racks of thrift stores and flea markets for original pieces.
Looks to Look For
If you weren’t around for the first run of big shoulders, ruffles, and bright colors, you’ll need to know the basics of the style. First of all, size mattered. Bold geometric patterns covered sweaters and tunics; earrings, belts, and purses were larger than life, and shoulder pads were in everything. Some of the silhouettes of the 1980s, like cinched waists, big-shouldered jackets and blouses, and wide-brimmed hats, came out of the 1940s, but similarities end there. The 1980s turned it up several notches with bolder looks, lower necklines, and higher hemlines.
Color was all about going big or going home. Bright jewel tones and neon pastels were hot trends. Women would often match the color of their tights to the bright colors of a dress or skirt. Oh, and pantyhose were practically required, even in workout wear. It was usually a high-cut Lycra leotard, hose, leg warmers, and a belt or headband to match. The L’eggs company, famous for its iconic hose that came in a plastic egg, also sold leotards that went with tights and pantyhose.
Denim is a part of most fashion trends, and in the 1980s, jeans came in so many styles. Brooke Shields became synonymous with the Calvin Klein brand in 1980. At 15, she shook up fashion when she declared that “nothing” came between her and her Calvins.
Accessories were all about getting noticed. From big “gold and bold” earrings to bags big enough to carry around a week’s worth of clothing, most accessories fall into the “statement” pieces category. Accessories in the 1980s had a lot to say.
The Names We Knew
Like most fashion trends, some brands emerge as fan favorites, and the 1980s was no exception. One of the more well-known brands that symbolized 80s design was Guess, designed by brothers Paul, Maurice, Georges, and Armand Marciano. Born in Morrocco and raised in France, the brothers set 80s fashion on fire with bold looks and colors. Georges and Armand eventually left the company while Paul and Maurice continued. Today, the brand is popular with vintage fans who remember the shapes and colors the company was known for.
Benetton, later known as “United Colors of Benetton,” disrupted the 80s fashion scene by pairing diverse fashions with diverse models. The campaign was a huge success, catapulting the Italian brand to global recognition. The clothes were casual but made with quality knits, and the vibe was all about inclusivity before it was a thing in marketing.
No discussion of the 1980s is complete without going over the preppy trend of that decade. In October 1980, The Official Preppy Handbook was the go-to reference for all things prep. From popped collars to Lily Pulitzer shift dresses, the look included plaids and tweed for a business look and bright pastels for cocktails and upscale evenings. Oxford shirts were a must, as were penny loafers and understated “Bermuda bags” with interchangeable covers that buttoned on and could match any ensemble.
Flea markets and thrift stores are good places to find looks from the 1980s, from brightly colored parachute pants and tracksuits to Reebok high tops and jelly sandals. Vintage seller Keri Snook, who sells clothing and home goods in New England, told WorthPoint,
80s style is still going strong in the vintage fashion world. In my vintage store booths, I’m selling 80s Ralph Lauren shirts and sweaters, neon-colored track jackets, acid-washed shirts, leopard-print tops, and leather jackets and skirts. I recently acquired several early 80s Gunne Sax dresses and tops, which I don’t expect to last long in my booth. I also sell a large volume of ladies’ neck scarves. Equestrian, plaid, and florals (think: Ralph Lauren) scarves are selling, as well as paisleys and bright colors, including metallics. Scarves are back and the easiest accessory to “80s-up your look.
Backward and Forwards
While the term “fashion forward” refers to the newest looks and styles, very often, new trends are revivals of other fashion eras. The 1980s are having a moment, and whether you choose something new that’s reminiscent of that time or you’ve found a few vintage pieces to create a look, this trend is definitely a bit of a blast from the past. The pop culture look of the 1980s is perfect as spring begins and everything blooms in color once more.
Brenda Kelley Kim lives in the Boston area. She is the author of Sink or Swim: Tales From the Deep End of Everywhere and writes a weekly syndicated column for The Marblehead Weekly News/Essex Media Group. When not writing or walking her snorty pug, Penny, she enjoys yard sales, flea markets, and badminton.
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