Acid Wash & Shoulder Pads: Your Guide to Clothes in the 80s for Men

12 May 2024

Remember when MTV actually played music videos? Yeah, the 80s. Big hair, neon colors, and enough synthesizers to make a robot blush. But let's be real, what really makes you say "totally rad" when you look back? The clothes. Men in the 80s weren't afraid to push boundaries, embrace bold looks, and, well, sometimes look a little ridiculous. But hey, who are we to judge? It was a different time. Buckle up, because we're taking a trip down memory lane to revisit the glorious, the gaudy, and the downright questionable world of 80s men's fashion.

Now, the 80s weren't just about throwing on a neon tank top and calling it a day (though, that was definitely a thing). The decade was a melting pot of influences, from the athletic craze fueled by guys like Michael Jordan to the glam rock scene with its skin-tight jeans and leather jackets. It was a time of experimentation, where preppy met punk, and sportswear got a serious dose of attitude.

Think about it. This was the era that birthed iconic looks we still see echoed today. The rise of hip-hop brought us tracksuits, chunky gold chains, and sneakers so fresh they could have walked down a runway. Meanwhile, the preppy set was all about popped collars, pastel polos, and enough argyle to make your eyes water. And let's not forget the leather bomber jackets, ripped jeans, and band tees that screamed rebellion. The 80s were all about making a statement, whether you were hitting the gym, the club, or just cruising down the street.

But why are we still so obsessed with 80s men's fashion today? It's more than just nostalgia. There's an undeniable sense of fun and freedom in the clothes of that era. It was a time when men weren't afraid to express themselves through their clothing choices, no matter how outrageous they might have seemed. And let's be honest, who doesn't love a little bit of over-the-top style?

So, whether you're looking for inspiration for your next costume party, want to inject some retro cool into your modern wardrobe, or just want to take a hilarious trip down memory lane, exploring 80s men's fashion is a must. Just be prepared for some serious style envy (and maybe a little bit of cringe along the way).

Advantages and Disadvantages of 80s Men's Fashion

Advantages	Disadvantages
Bold and expressive	Often over-the-top
Comfortable and practical (think tracksuits and sneakers)	Some trends haven't aged well (we're looking at you, parachute pants)
Highly influential on modern fashion	Could be seen as costume-y if not styled carefully today

Best Practices for Rocking 80s Men's Fashion Today

Okay, so maybe you don't want to look like you stepped straight out of an episode of "Miami Vice." That's fair. But you can still incorporate elements of 80s style into your modern wardrobe for a look that's both on-trend and uniquely you. Here's how:

Start with the basics: A classic denim jacket, a pair of high-top sneakers, or a graphic tee are all great pieces to build a retro-inspired outfit around.
Don't be afraid of color: Embrace bold hues like electric blue, hot pink, and neon green. You can add pops of color with accessories or go all out with a statement piece.
Mix and match: The beauty of 80s fashion was its eclecticism. Don't be afraid to pair a preppy polo with a pair of distressed jeans or a leather jacket with some tailored trousers.
Accessorize wisely: Sunglasses, hats, and jewelry were all key components of 80s style. Look for vintage pieces or modern takes on classic designs.
Most importantly, have fun with it: 80s fashion was all about self-expression and having a good time. Don't take it too seriously, and experiment until you find what works for you.

So go ahead, raid your dad's closet (or your local vintage store), and get ready to unleash your inner 80s style icon. Just remember, a little bit of confidence goes a long way, even when you're rocking a pair of neon leg warmers.