Ah, fashion in the ’80s. A time of bold colors, oversize blazers and gravity-defying hairstyles. But it wasn’t all bad—remember the power suit? Get ready for a fashion flashback as we recall some of the most hilarious looks of the decade.
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'80s Fashion: The Good, the Bad and the Downright Ridiculous
By: Alexia Dellner
Published: May 10, 2017
1.
Supersized Hair
The general rule of ’80s hair seemed to be that if it didn’t look like a bird could land in it, then it just wasn’t big enough. Best when teamed with the aforementioned power suit and bright eyeshadow all the way up to the brow.
2.
Earrings to Your Shoulders
Because when you have gigantic hair, you need your accessories to match.
3.
Neon Colors
A daring look or an attack on corneas everywhere? Tough call. (Side note: If you haven’t seen SJP wearing all the neon in Girls Just Want to Have Fun, then you haven’t lived.)
4.
Boomboxes as Accessories
And you thought the guy listening to his Beats too loud on the subway was annoying.
5.
Fanciful Fringe
We don’t know if it’s the boxy white jacket or memories of a nerdy Patrick Dempsey purchasing his high school popularity in Can't Buy Me Love, but we're just going to say it—these tassels aren’t terrible.
6.
Bolo Ties
Not-so-fun fact: Kids today have no idea what these are or why they were considered cool in the ’80s. Then again, we're not so sure that we can really explain that either.
7.
Lace Gloves
Madonna ruled the style stakes this decade, so much so that she managed to convince everyone that extraneous lace gloves were a must-have accessory. Note: wearing just one glove was also totally acceptable.
8.
Popped Collars
Best worn with an attitude problem, à la The Breakfast Club.
9.
Workout Clothes for Everyday Wear
Leg warmers and Lycra: not just for the gym. (Seems like 2017 might be taking a page from this book.)
10.
Parachute Pants
Admittedly not the most flattering look but on the plus side, super useful if ever required to make an emergency jump out of an airplane. And for sneaking snacks into the theater.
11.
Crop Tops
To be fair, this look has made a total comeback. And also, this is far from the weirdest thing that Johnny Depp has ever worn.
12.
Shoulder Pads
If you’re wondering if shoulders and attitudes could ever be too big in the ’80s, Winona’s face has the answer.
13.
Fedoras Tilted to the Back
Priority No. 1: Never mess with the bangs.
14.
Down Vests
Another trend that's made a serious comeback. But nobody wears this look better than Marty McFly.