How to dress inspired by American fashion in the 1980s.
The 80s were a decade of significant changes in American fashion. Popular culture heavily influenced fashion, with the advent of cable television and music videos bringing new trends and styles. The 80s were characterized by a wide variety of styles, bright colors, innovative fabrics, and bold shapes.
Inspirations for American Fashion in the 80s
Fashion in the 80s was heavily influenced by popular culture at the time. Movies like "Flashdance" and "Dirty Dancing" inspired a sporty and energetic look, while TV shows like "Miami Vice" brought about the famous "Miami Vice look", characterized by white jackets and pastel-colored cigarette pants.
In addition, music videos from artists such as Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Prince created new trends in 80s fashion. Madonna introduced the punk rock look with accessories like leather bracelets and gold chains, while Michael Jackson made the black leather jacket with silver zippers popular.
Distinctive Characteristics of American Fashion in the 80s
- Bright Colors: Clothing in the 80s was often characterized by bright colors such as shocking pink, neon green, and bright orange.
- Innovative Fabrics: The fashion of the 80s saw the introduction of fabrics like nylon, Lycra, and polyester.
- Bold Shapes: Clothing in the 80s was often characterized by exaggerated shapes such as broad shoulders, puff sleeves, and high-waisted pants.
- Showy Accessories: Accessories were an important element of 80s fashion, with leather bracelets, gold chains, and oversized earrings dominating the scene.
Iconic Clothing of the 80s
The 80s were a time of great creativity and experimentation in fashion. Clothing was bold, colorful, and often exaggerated. Here are some of the most iconic clothing items of the 80s:
- High-Waisted Jeans: High-waisted jeans were very popular in the 80s. They were worn with wide belts and cropped tops.
- Oversized T-Shirts: Oversized t-shirts were a must-have in the 80s. They were often worn with leggings or tight pants.
- Flared Pants: Flared pants were an important trend in the 80s. They were often made from shiny and bright fabrics.
- Bomber Jacket: The bomber jacket was a very popular piece of clothing in the 80s. It was often worn over an oversized t-shirt and high-waisted jeans.
- Leggings: Leggings were another iconic clothing item of the 80s. They were often worn with oversized t-shirts or under mini skirts.
- Rock T-Shirts: Rock t-shirts with prints of musical bands were very popular in the 80s. They were often worn with high-waisted jeans or flared pants.
These clothing items are just some examples of 80s fashion. The key to achieving an 80s-inspired look is to choose colorful, bold, and often exaggerated clothing pieces. Experiment with shiny fabrics, prints, and fun patterns to create a look that is unique and personal.
How to Create an 80s Look Today
If you're interested in creating an 80s-inspired look, here are some tips to help you:
Choose the Right Colors
The 80s were known for bright and vibrant colors. Opt for bold shades like hot pink, neon green, bright orange, and canary yellow. You can also choose pastel colors like pale pink, baby blue, or lavender.
Wear Oversized Clothes
Oversized clothes were very popular in the 80s. Wear a loose-fitting shirt with exaggerated shoulders or wide-legged pants with a high waist to create a vintage yet modern look.
Add Iconic Accessories
Accessories are essential to complete an 80s look. Choose large round sunglasses or oversized hoop earrings. Add a fabric headband or trendy digital watches.
Select the Right Shoes
Shoes are important to complete any outfit. For an 80s look, opt for high-top sneakers with thick soles and colorful laces. Alternatively, choose high wedge sandals or over-the-knee boots.
- Remember not to overdo it with accessories. Choose only one or two elements to complete your look.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with colors and shapes. The 80s were known for boldness and creativity.
- Finally, have fun! Fashion should be fun and a way to express your personality.
By following these tips, you can create an 80s-inspired look that is modern and fashionable. Don't be afraid to experiment and add your personal touch!
Accessories to Complete Your 80s Outfit
To complete your American 80s fashion-inspired look, you cannot forget about accessories. Accessories were a key element of fashion during that time and can make a difference in creating the desired effect.
Hats and Headbands
Hats were very popular in the 80s. You can choose from various styles such as baseball caps, newsboy caps, or wide-brimmed hats. Alternatively, you can opt for a colorful headband or one with geometric patterns. Headbands are perfect if you want to keep your hair out of your face and add a pop of color to your outfit.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses were a must-have in the 80s. Choose a pair of mirrored sunglasses or oversized plastic frames in bright colors. These sunglasses will give you a cool and trendy look.
Jewelry Statement
In the 80s, women loved to wear big and flashy jewelry. You can choose from wide bracelets, dangling earrings or oversized necklaces. The rule was "more is better". So don't be afraid to go overboard with your jewelry.
Colored stockings
Colored stockings were another key element of 80s fashion. You can choose from striped stockings, those with geometric patterns or solid colors. Wear them with a short skirt or a pair of shorts for an authentic 80s look.
Sneakers
Sneakers were very popular in the 80s and are still fashionable today. Choose a pair of colorful sneakers with big brands like Nike or Adidas. These shoes will give you a sporty and trendy look.
- Remember that accessories are essential to complete your 80s inspired outfit.
- Choose hats, sunglasses, jewelry, stockings and sneakers to create the desired effect.
- Don't be afraid to go overboard with your accessories - it was the rule in the 80s.
Tips to avoid going overboard with the 80s style
Although the abundance of colors, fabrics and accessories is a distinctive feature of 80s style, it's important not to go overboard. Here are some tips for creating an 80s-inspired look without looking out of place.
Choosing the right fabrics and colors
The 80s were characterized by synthetic fabrics such as nylon, faux leather and polyester. However, if you want to avoid looking too kitschy, opt for modern fabrics that imitate the look of the 80s but with higher quality. Also, choose vibrant colors but limit them to a few tones to avoid looking too flashy.
Don't go overboard with accessories
Accessories were a key element of 80s fashion, but it's important not to go overboard. Choose one or two iconic pieces like an oversized bag or hoop earrings, but avoid wearing them all together. Also, if you wear retro sunglasses, make sure they are proportionate to your face.
Balancing proportions
One of the distinctive traits of 80s fashion was the tendency to wear oversized clothing. If you want to adopt this style, make sure to balance the proportions with more fitted clothing. For example, if you wear an oversized jacket, pair it with skinny pants or leggings.
- Choose modern fabrics that imitate the look of the 80s but with higher quality
- Limit vibrant colors to a few tones to avoid looking too flashy
- Wear one or two iconic pieces like an oversized bag or hoop earrings, but avoid wearing them all together
- Balance proportions with more fitted clothing if you wear oversized clothes
By following these tips, you'll be able to create an 80s-inspired look without looking out of place. Always remember to balance the key elements of 80s style with modern and current clothing for a fresh and contemporary look.
Conclusion
American fashion from the 1980s is still a source of inspiration for many fashion enthusiasts today. However, it's important to remember that past styles should be reinterpreted in a way that feels current and contemporary. By following these tips, you'll be able to create an '80s-inspired look without looking outdated or over-the-top.
Michael Anderson - Software Engineer
My name is Michael Anderson, and I work as a computer engineer in Midland, Texas.
My passion is sharing my knowledge in various areas, and my purpose is to make education accessible to everyone. I believe it is essential to explain complex concepts in a simple and interesting way.
With GlobalHowTo, I aim to motivate and enrich the minds of those who want to learn.
