Shoulder Pads & Neon Dreams: Reliving the Boldest Clothing Styles of the 80s for Women

17 Apr 2024

Remember the days of big hair, even bigger shoulder pads, and a whole lot of neon? The 1980s were a time of bold fashion choices, and women's clothing truly embraced the excess and vibrancy of the decade. From the streets to the silver screen, 80s fashion made a statement, and its influence can still be felt today.

But what exactly defined the clothing styles of the 80s for women? Picture this: Madonna in her ripped lace, leggings, and crucifixes, or the working-girl chic of Melanie Griffith in "Working Girl" with her power suits and chunky jewelry. The 80s were a melting pot of diverse trends – a clash between aspirational power dressing and rebellious street style.

The rise of MTV played a huge role in bringing these trends into our homes. Suddenly, artists like Cyndi Lauper and Blondie weren't just singers, they were fashion icons influencing a generation. The era's obsession with fitness also played a part, ushering in the age of leg warmers, leotards, and athletic-inspired looks.

Looking back, it's easy to see why 80s fashion is having such a major resurgence. It was a time of self-expression and individuality. Women were stepping into their power in the workplace and society, and their clothing reflected this newfound confidence.

Whether you're a vintage fashion enthusiast or simply curious about incorporating some retro vibes into your current wardrobe, there's something undeniably fun and empowering about the clothing styles of the 80s for women. So, dust off that old Members Only jacket, tease your hair to new heights, and let's take a trip back to a decade that dared to be different.

Advantages and Disadvantages of 80s Fashion

Let's be honest, not everything about 80s fashion has aged gracefully. While we celebrate its iconic status, it's important to acknowledge both the highs and lows of this era in fashion:

Advantages	Disadvantages
Expressive & Individualistic: 80s fashion allowed for bold self-expression and individuality. Confidence-Boosting: Power suits and bold silhouettes empowered women. Versatile Trends: From punk to preppy, there was a style for everyone.	Over-the-Top Aesthetics: Some trends could be considered excessive or gaudy today. Focus on Trends: Emphasis on following trends sometimes overshadowed personal style. Questionable Fabric Choices: Synthetic fabrics were popular, and not always the most flattering or comfortable.

Bringing Back the 80s: Best Practices for Today

Want to channel your inner Madonna or rock a touch of 80s flair? Here's how to incorporate the best of 80s clothing styles into your modern wardrobe:

Start with Statement Pieces: Choose one or two iconic 80s pieces to build your outfit around – think a bold blazer with shoulder pads, a graphic tee, or high-waisted jeans.
Balance the Proportions: 80s fashion was all about volume, so if you're wearing something oversized on top, pair it with something more fitted on the bottom, and vice versa.
Embrace Color and Prints: Don't be afraid to experiment with bold colors, neon accents, animal prints, and graphic patterns.
Accessorize Wisely: Statement earrings, chunky necklaces, oversized sunglasses, and wide belts are all great ways to add an 80s touch.
Make It Your Own: The key is to take inspiration from the 80s and adapt it to your own personal style. You don't need to recreate a head-to-toe 80s look – unless you want to!

Whether you lived through the 80s or are just discovering its fashion legacy, there's no denying the impact this decade continues to have. So, go ahead, embrace your inner wild child, and have some fun experimenting with the bold and unforgettable clothing styles of the 80s.