80s Fashion: These Iconic Trends are Making a Comeback

Today we'll take a virtual stroll into the past of the fashion world and discover some fashion revivals from the legendary eighties.

A whole range of fashion trends from the famous 80s are currently experiencing a widely celebrated comeback. The clothing range of the 80s fashion enthusiast includes a colorful mix of eye-catching T-shirts , XXL blazers with shoulder pads, patent leather skirts and wide waist belts all the way to carrot pants .

The 80s – The Fashion Decade

“No respite, history is being made”,

That's how it sounded promising in one of the numerous New German Wave hits. And yes, a lot happened in that decade: in 1983, punks took to the streets and aerobics swept through the gyms. Dallas and Dynasty captivated television audiences, and Rubik's Cube became a must-have for gaming enthusiasts. In 1984, Steve Jobs introduced the first Macintosh, and in 1985, Boris Becker surprisingly won Wimbledon. The fall of the Berlin Wall, a historic turning point, was already palpable during the Monday Demonstrations of 1989.

Meanwhile, a new disease called AIDS the world, the Gulf War begins, the Greens enter parliament, and the Chernobyl disaster . Nationwide, masses protest against nuclear armament. The so-called "New German Wave" storms the charts. And that's not all...

No other decade pursued the goal of expressing one's lifestyle through fashion as intensely as the 1980s . Influenced by diverse movements such as hip hop and punk, as well as the era of the "yuppies" ( young urban professionals) , various trends emerged that moved far away from gender-specific clothing towards a creative expression of fashion . Pop stars like Michael Jackson and Madonna are style icons of this time and continue to significantly influence 1980s fashion today.

Dance films like “Dirty Dancing” and “Flashdance” , as well as the emerging fitness trend, also made leggings and neon colors trendy.

The popular metallic colors are also back in style, reminding us of the era of Wham!, Nena, and Modern Talking. We're also taking inspiration from 80s hairstyle trends. Miley Cyrus, with her modern wolf cut, a contemporary version of the mullet look, reminiscent of the legendary style icon Debbie Harry.

From leg warmers to high-top sneakers and high-waisted jeans – immerse yourself with us in the exciting world of eighties fashion and discover how this nostalgic era is experiencing a stylish revival in the modern world.

Fashion Revival of the Eighties

The eighties were a decade characterized bold fashion choices and an uncompromising sense of self-expression

It was a time when shoulder pads , bright colors, and neon shades dominated the fashion scene. And now, in the present day, these iconic trends are experiencing an impressive comeback.

In this article, we will explore with you the revival of 1980s fashion and how it is once again captivating the modern fashion world.

From the power of the shoulder pad to the return of bright colors and neon tones – the fashion revival of the eighties is all about embracing the vibrant and daring.

Denim , a staple of the eighties, is also making a triumphant comeback, from high-waisted jeans to skirts and jackets. Graphic T-shirts and eye-catching prints are another trend resurfacing, allowing people to express their unique personalities through their clothing.

And let's not forget the accessories and shoes – the eighties saw the birth of many retro accessories and unusual shoes that are now finding their way back into our wardrobes.

From oversized sunglasses to chunky sneakers, these accessories add an extra touch of nostalgia to our outfits.

The fashion revival of the 80s is about capturing the spirit of the times while giving it a modern touch.

80s fashion: All the trends and the best 80s looks

Source catalog – 80s fashion

Youtuber Retro 80 with his Quelle catalog, which .

Original 80s clothing – where can you buy it?

If you are looking for authentic clothing from the 80s, there are several promising sources you should consider:

01 Vintage and second-hand shops

• Urban vintage shops: Visit second-hand and vintage shops in your city. These stores often specialize in retro fashion and offer a carefully curated selection of clothing from various decades, including the 1980s.

• Flea markets and antique markets: Local flea markets and antique markets are also an excellent place to find original clothing from the 80s. You can often find vendors specializing in vintage fashion there as well.

02 Online markets and auction houses

• eBay: There are numerous sellers on eBay who specialize in vintage fashion. Use specific search terms like "80s clothing" or "vintage 80s" and check the sellers' ratings.

• Etsy: Etsy is known for handmade and vintage products. Many shops on Etsy offer a wide range of original 80s clothing.

• Depop: Depop is a mobile app that is particularly popular with young people and offers a wide selection of vintage clothing. Here you can specifically search for pieces from the 80s.

03 Fashion Online Shops

• Lounge by Zalando – Large fashion selection including some 80s fashion items, some reduced by up to 70%.
• OTTO – 80s costumes and accessories
• 80s fashion on Amazon – Thousands of offers on 80s fashion, costumes, accessories and retro gadgets
• 80s Fashion at About You – Numerous sale items, offers and second-hand fashion

04 Specialized online shops

• Beyond Retro: A well-known online shop that carries a large selection of vintage clothing, including pieces from the 80s.

• Rokit: Rokit is another online retailer specializing in vintage fashion. With a little browsing, you're sure to find original 80s clothing items here.

05 Social Media and Vintage Communities

• Instagram and Facebook: Social media platforms have many vintage communities and groups focused on buying and selling 80s clothing. You can find what you're looking for by using the right hashtags (#80sFashion, #VintageFashion) or by joining relevant groups.

06 Exchange and Networking

• Vintage fairs and events: Keep an eye out for vintage fairs or fashion events in your area. These not only offer the opportunity to purchase original 80s clothing, but also to connect with other vintage enthusiasts and potentially discover further sources of buying items.

With these diverse options, you should be able to find authentic 80s clothing that suits your style and budget.

Have fun browsing and discovering!

The most important fashion trends of the 80s

Power dressing – the importance of shoulder pads

The importance of shoulder pads is undeniable when it comes to 1980s fashion trends. This iconic trend, once synonymous with power dressing , is making a strong comeback.

From blazers to dresses, exaggerated shoulders are back, adding structure and confidence to any outfit.

Shoulder pads popularized by influential figures such as Joan Collins in the hit show "Dynasty"

These structured pads were worn not only in blazers and jackets, but also in dresses and tops, creating a strong silhouette that exuded confidence and strength.

In the era of the supermodels, dominated by the legendary “Big Five” : Cindy Crawford, Claudia Schiffer, Naomi Campbell, Tatjana Patitz and Linda Evangelista, fashion was characterized by broad, masculine silhouettes and bold statements.

New styles and codes emerged, embodied by the yuppies – the young urban professionals – who presented themselves in suits with striking shoulder pads. During this creative period, gender roles blurred; artists like Boy George celebrated this dissolution of boundaries. Fashionable surprises were enthusiastically received, leading to a remarkable freedom for personal styles and radically breaking down the barriers between gender-specific clothing and different trend movements.

Today we see the trend towards shoulder pads reinterpreted in various forms, from oversized and exaggerated pads to more subtle and refined versions.

The shoulder pad trend isn't just a fashionable nod to the eighties; it also improves our posture and adds structure to our look. This bold statement piece is a perfect homage to the eighties.

Fitness movement, body image, and ankle-high sports shoes

Films like Flashdance, Footloose, and Dirty Dancing not only enjoyed immense popularity, but fitness videos also experienced a veritable boom. A true body cult took hold, manifesting itself in a wave of bodybuilding and aerobics .

The fashion of the 80s embraced this trend – neon colors, aerobic outfits, leggings, sweatshirts, as well as headbands, sweatbands and leg warmers found their way into the everyday wardrobe of all fashion-conscious people and became the model for the athleisure style . Ankle-high sports shoes were particularly popular and were cleverly combined with skirts, suits and trousers.

Bright colors and neon tones

Bright colors like Electric Pink, Neon Green and Electric Blue instantly transport us back to the colorful and vibrant eighties.

The 1980s fashion revival has brought with it a wave of nostalgia for the fun and daring styles of that era. One of the standout trends making a comeback is the vibrant and eye-catching use of bright colors and neon shades. These bold and electrifying hues were a hallmark of 1980s fashion and are now once again at the heart of modern wardrobes.

With the return of bright colors and neon shades, fashion enthusiasts can infuse their outfits with vibrant energy. Whether it's a neon yellow blouse paired with high-waisted jeans or a striking pink dress that commands attention, these colors instantly make a statement and add a playful element to any look.

The revival of these eighties-inspired colors is also evident in accessories such as eye-catching earrings , neon handbags , and bright sneakers . They add a pop of color to neutral outfits or can be combined with other colorful pieces for a bold head-to-toe look.

The reappearance of these vibrant neon colors evokes the fearless and adventurous attitude of the eighties . It encourages people to step outside their comfort zone and embrace the joyful and vibrant spirit of this iconic decade.

Even men had fallen for the brightly colored pattern hype and wore the crazy color combinations even on the ski slopes or as tracksuits for everyday life.

These outfits are perfect for your next 80s-themed party or bad taste party . You can find 80s-style costumes at Kostuem-Planet.de, for example. These include the characteristically colorful tracksuits for men and women, complete with matching mullet wigs and sweatbands in vibrant colors.

your perfect 80s outfit at this online costume shop with the following retailer promises:

• Original costume designs, not mass-produced
• Very high quality at a fair price
• Optimized fit and high wearing comfort
• High-quality materials and durability

Runway collections and individual branding

Madonna's song "Express Yourself" embodied the zeitgeist of the 80s, in which fashion served as an expression of individual attitude. The iconic cone bra by Jean Paul Gaultier , which Madonna wore during her Blond Ambition tour, symbolized sexual emancipation and was first presented on the catwalk in 1984.

Brands like Karl Lagerfeld and Vivienne Westwood , as well as consumer brands like Nike and Esprit, offered the opportunity to display success and wealth through striking clothing. In this era, understatement was not an option; one's self-image was boldly expressed through fashion styles.

Denim – from high-waisted jeans to skirts and jackets

Denim – a timeless fabric that dominated the fashion scene in the eighties – has become a staple in the wardrobe of every fashion-conscious person.

High-waisted jeans were all the rage in the eighties , and their popularity has increased again in recent years. These jeans hug the waist, creating a flattering silhouette and accentuating curves. Combined with a tucked-in graphic tee or a stylish blouse, high-waisted jeans bring back the essence of the eighties while giving them a modern twist.

But denim doesn't stop at jeans. Skirts made from this versatile fabric are also enjoying a comeback in the hearts of fashionistas. Whether it's a midi denim skirt that exudes elegance or a mini denim skirt that radiates youthful energy, this trend from the eighties has proven its staying power.

Combine it with a tucked-in blouse or a fitted sweater and you have a chic outfit that effortlessly captures the spirit of the eighties.

Oversized and embellished denim jackets were also a major fashion trend in the 1980s , and these styles are making a bold comeback. Whether you opt for a classic blue denim jacket or experiment with different washes and added details, this timeless piece can be layered over any outfit for an effortlessly cool look.

When it comes to denim, there are plenty of accessories to choose from, and if you're looking for a personalized touch, try custom patches. Whether they're embroidered, PVC, or made from other materials, they can be a great option. Whether on a denim jacket, jeans, or a hat, they can make your outfit more stylish and stand out.

The pursuit of personalized customization has always been a concern for fashion enthusiasts. At bps.com, you can personalize patches, badges, t-shirts, hats, and more. Even neon lights. Incorporate your own fashion creativity into unique designs. Whether you prefer retro style or trendy accessories, you can customize everything to your exact specifications.

Revival of graphic T-shirts and eye-catching prints

As we continue our journey through the fashion revival of the eighties, we cannot overlook the resurgence of graphic T-shirts and eye-catching prints.

In the eighties, graphic T-shirts as a canvas for self-expression, showcasing band logos, catchy phrases, and striking artwork. Today, we see a similar trend.

These T-shirts are not just a nostalgic throwback, but also a statement piece that adds a touch of personality to any outfit. Whether it's a vintage-inspired design or a modern take on the eighties aesthetic, graphic T-shirts allow us to perfectly express our individuality.

Bold prints , another hallmark of 1980s fashion, are also experiencing a revival. From vibrant florals to geometric shapes, these striking patterns are returning to our clothing.

Both designers and fashion enthusiasts are embracing the 1980s penchant for boldness and incorporating it into their collections. Wearing these prints can instantly elevate a look, adding a touch of playfulness and energy.

The return of accessories and shoes with a retro character

Accessories like oversized hoop earrings, hair ties , and belt bags have enjoyed a resurgence in popularity since the 1980s. These statement pieces lend a touch of nostalgia to any outfit while simultaneously conveying a sense of fun and individuality.

And let's not forget the fun of leg warmers and rubber shoes , which remind us of carefree days and youthful energy.

But it's not just the accessories that are taking us on a trip down memory lane. Retro shoes like high-top sneakers and chunky heels are making a comeback. These stylish footwear options effortlessly combine comfort and elegance, allowing us to rock our outfits with confidence and a touch of 80s flair .

What a feeling! Leggings and colorful leg warmers

The 1980s were dominated by dance films like 'Flashdance', 'Dirty Dancing', and 'Footloose', which have achieved cult status to this day. Inspired by the charismatic lead actors and their dance moves, viewers flocked to aerobics classes.

It was important not only to be sporty, but also to shine leggings and a bodysuit

The focus was particularly on the trendy sport of aerobics, spearheaded by none other than the legendary Jane Fonda. Leg warmers were absolutely essential, as they were the indispensable accessory for every fashion-conscious athlete.

Puff sleeves – Irresistibly playful and typically 80s

In the 80s, the trend was that more was indeed more. Fashion was full of padding and sumptuous fabrics.

Shoulder pads were a must-have, and puff sleeves were practically unlimited in size. Interestingly, such sleeves were already fashionable in the 19th century, and as they say: everything comes back around eventually.

Carrot pants – preferably acid washed

Carrot trousers , which were cut high at the waist and wide at the hips and thighs, could not exactly be described as a master of figure flattering.

Nevertheless, it was very popular and was often worn in various versions such as patent leather, fabric or jeans.

Especially in typical 80s washes like stonewashed , moonwashed , or acid-washed, carrot-leg trousers were an absolute must-have. Even today, they are considered the most beloved trouser style of that wild decade.

Trouser suits – the emancipation of business fashion

In the 1980s, trouser suits for women seen as a sign of female emancipation and as an indispensable garment in every sophisticated business wardrobe.

Even today, suits are an indispensable part of a smart office outfit and should be a staple in every well-stocked wardrobe. For a relaxed yet elegant look, we recommend combining sneakers with trouser suits.

Minis / Mini skirts

Dresses and skirts in micro-length lengths conquered the party scene, representing a daring expression of individuality and freedom. These short pieces were often worn with colorful tights, which not only added pops of color but also created a playful contrast to the revealing outfits. The combination of these garments created a look that was both daring and inviting, and fashionistas delighted with their ability to be trendsetters.

Fashionistas of that era favored short, strapless bustier dresses or provocative corsets that dramatically accentuated the female silhouette. These garments exuded confidence and sensuality, making them a must-have for any celebration. They were often paired with long, baggy denim jackets, which not only added a casual touch but also created an exciting contrast between the femininity of the dress and the ruggedness of the jacket.

Animal Prints – Let it be wild!

The fashion of the 80s was wild and extravagant – perfect for animal prints .

In the 1980s, animal print became a popular luxury look. Whether leopard, tiger, or snake patterns, they were and still are found on many garments.

Regardless of whether real fur or faux fur patterns were used, men and women proudly wore their finest safari animal imitations. These featured motifs of cheetahs, tigers, zebras, leopards, and giraffes. These patterns were literally worn on everything—from jackets and furniture to underwear and works of art.

Figure-hugging – wide waist belt

To create the characteristic body shape of the 80s with broad shoulders and a narrow waist, it was necessary to use fashionable aids: a wide belt around the waist that held back the volume somewhat.

Even today, this accessory is a valuable aid in accentuating the midsection despite oversized clothing.

Oversized one-shoulder tops

What could be a better match for two of our previously listed 80s trends (mini skirt and leggings) than an oversized sweater?

Short answer, nothing. These large, oversized tops were often cinched at the waist with a belt to achieve the desired V-shape and hung extremely casually over one shoulder.

Harem pants

In the 80s, harem pants experienced a real hype thanks to rap “icons” like MC Hammer and Vanilla Ice , who wore this trendy clothing.

For many, the wide, baggy trousers with narrow ankles became the ultimate fashion statement of the era. Their striking style was reminiscent of traditional Arabian Peninsula fashion and added an exotic touch to any outfit. With their unique cut and bold presence, harem pants became a symbol of individuality and daring style.

This fashion trend quickly gained popularity not only in hip-hop culture but also in mainstream fashion, thus significantly shaping the fashion landscape of that era.

Glitter and bling – sequins and lurex

In the 1980s, sparkling garments with sequins and eye-catching jewelry ( jewelry layering ) thrilled the fashion world.

Lurex was also an absolute must-have. The shimmering gold and silver threads were woven into every garment imaginable. To ensure that the metallic highlight attracted everyone's attention, countless sequins were also sewn onto the dress. Because back then, the motto was: more is more.

The clinking of jewelry and the glittering shine of accessories were all the rage in the 80s. Whether worn on the shoulders or on the body, opulent embellishments and sparkling jewels were the trend. Girls and women looked like Christmas trees, all vying to see who could shine brightest.

Anyone who wants to rock this dazzling look today should keep the following in mind: For everyday wear, sequined skirts and trousers can be combined as key pieces with simple knit sweaters or T-shirts. Sequined tops go perfectly with jeans. A sequined dress is the ideal choice for your next party.

Sony Walkman

In the dazzling 80s, fashion stood not only for clothing, but also embodied the lifestyle of an entire generation.

The Walkman , that revolutionary device that adorned countless ears and became an integral part of their daily attire, symbolized the spirit of the era like no other gadget. The portable cassette player with its characteristic headphones became an indispensable accessory for all those who wanted their favorite music readily available on the go.

An era in which music wasn't just listened to, but worn. Wherever you went in the 80s, the Walkman was always a faithful companion and an expression of its owner's individual personality – a must-have for every music lover in what was arguably the most dynamic decade of the 20th century from a fashion perspective.

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