Want to Rock the Retro Look? Your Guide to Killer '80s Outfits for Women

12 Apr 2024
us
Murphy

Remember the days of shoulder pads that could rival a linebacker and neon colors so bright they could be seen from space? The 1980s were a time of bold fashion choices, and for women, it was a decade of self-expression through clothing like never before. Whether you're putting together a costume or just want to add a touch of retro flair to your everyday style, '80s fashion offers a treasure trove of inspiration.

But where to begin? The '80s were a melting pot of trends, from the sporty and androgynous to the glamorous and over-the-top. Think Madonna's lace gloves and leggings, Princess Diana's elegant power suits, and the vibrant streetwear worn by hip-hop icons like Salt-N-Pepa. It was a decade that wasn't afraid to push boundaries and experiment with style.

The '80s fashion scene was heavily influenced by the music and entertainment industry. MTV's rise to prominence meant artists like Michael Jackson, Prince, and Cyndi Lauper weren't just musical influences; their unique styles became trends followed by millions. The fitness craze, fueled by Jane Fonda and Olivia Newton-John, brought leg warmers, leotards, and headbands into the mainstream. Even the burgeoning business world, with women breaking glass ceilings, had its own fashion statement - the power suit, with its strong shouldered jackets and tailored skirts, became symbolic of female empowerment.

But the real beauty of '80s fashion lies in its versatility. You can go all-out with a head-to-toe retro look, or pick and choose elements to create a more modern take on the era. Think high-waisted jeans paired with an off-the-shoulder top, a denim jacket adorned with pins and patches, or a statement accessory like oversized earrings or a chunky belt.

Ready to take a trip back in time? Let's break down some iconic '80s looks for women and how you can incorporate them into your wardrobe today.

Advantages and Disadvantages of '80s Retro Outfits

Advantages	Disadvantages
Unique and eye-catching style Expresses individuality and creativity Versatile for various occasions (parties, festivals, everyday wear) Many vintage pieces are affordable and sustainable	Some trends can feel dated or costume-y if not styled carefully May require searching for authentic pieces or specific patterns Oversized silhouettes may not be flattering for all body types

Five Best Practices for Rocking '80s Outfits

Here's how to incorporate '80s fashion into your style without looking like you stepped out of a time capsule:

Start Small: You don't have to go full-on Madonna from day one. Try incorporating one or two '80s-inspired pieces into your existing wardrobe. Think a bright neon top with your favorite jeans or a pair of statement earrings with a simple dress.
Balance the Silhouette: The '80s were all about volume, but you can modernize the look by balancing proportions. Pair a loose-fitting top with skinny jeans or a high-waisted skirt with a tucked-in blouse.
Accessorize Strategically: Accessories are key to nailing any retro look. Oversized earrings, chunky necklaces, scrunchies, headbands, and statement belts were all staples of '80s fashion.
Don't Be Afraid of Color: The '80s were all about bright, bold colors, so don't be afraid to experiment. Try a neon pink top, a pair of electric blue leggings, or a color-blocked dress.
Own It!: The most important thing is to wear your outfit with confidence. The '80s were all about self-expression, so have fun with it and let your personality shine through!

Common Questions About '80s Fashion for Women

Still have some burning questions about incorporating '80s style? No worries, here are some common ones:

Where can I find authentic '80s clothes? Thrift stores are a goldmine for vintage finds, but you can also check online retailers specializing in vintage or retro clothing.
Can I wear '80s trends if I wasn't alive then? Absolutely! Fashion is about having fun and expressing yourself, regardless of when you were born.
How do I make '80s clothes look modern? Balance proportions, choose modern cuts and fabrics, and accessorize strategically.
What are some easy '80s trends to try? High-waisted jeans, denim jackets, statement earrings, and bold colors are all easy ways to incorporate the '80s into your wardrobe.
What are some iconic '80s hairstyles? Big hair was huge (literally!), so think perms, crimped hair, and lots of volume. Side ponytails, scrunchies, and headbands were also popular.
What shoes were popular in the '80s? Sneakers like Adidas, Converse, and Reebok were huge, as were jelly shoes, Doc Martens, and heels.
What makeup looks were popular in the '80s? Think bold eyeshadow, bright blush, and lots of mascara.
What are some good resources for '80s fashion inspiration? Movies, music videos, and old magazines are great places to start. You can also find tons of inspiration on Pinterest and Instagram.

Tips and Tricks for That Perfect '80s Vibe

Layer like a pro! Think tank tops under oversized tees, denim jackets over everything, and colorful tights under miniskirts.
Embrace the power of denim. Acid wash, ripped jeans, denim jackets – the more denim, the better!
Don't be afraid to mix and match patterns. Polka dots with stripes? Leopard print with neon? Go for it!
Make a statement with your footwear. Choose from chunky sneakers, jelly shoes, Doc Martens, or go bold with some brightly colored heels.

Whether you lived through the decade or are just discovering its bold style, there's no denying the enduring appeal of '80s fashion for women. It's a chance to embrace vibrant colors, experiment with silhouettes, and have fun with your personal style. So, dig out those shoulder pads, tease up your hair, and get ready to rock the retro look with confidence!