The 1980s were a time of bold colors, big hair, and eye-catching accessories. If you want to dress in 80s style, it's all about going big, bright, and totally rad. From neon prints to oversized tops, the 80s took fashion risks that still influence trends today. Dressing 80s style is fun, nostalgic, and easier than you think when you know what key pieces to look for.
Oversize Tops
Oversized T-Shirts
Oversized t-shirts were hugely popular in the 80s for both men and women. They came in bright colors and prints, and were often paired with leggings or skinny jeans on the bottom.
Some tips for rocking an oversized 80s tee:
- Go for a boxy, loose shape that extends past your hips
- Look for t-shirts with graphic prints, neon colors, or color blocking
- Roll the sleeves for a casual vibe or scrunch the sides into knots
- Tuck just the front into your bottoms to define your shape
Big Button-downs
For a more polished 80s look, oversized button-down shirts were also prevalent. These billowy button-downs added shape and volume when paired with tight 80s pants or mini skirts.
When selecting an oversized button-down:
- Look for updated versions with bold prints or colors
- Cinch it at the waist with a wide fabric belt
- Wear it open over a contrasting tank or tee
- Roll and tuck the sleeves for a new wave look
Bright & Acid Washed Denim
Acid Washed
Acid washed denim is quintessential 80s style. The process of chemically washing denim results in a mottled, faded light blue hue with white splotches of "damage."
Tips for rocking acid wash denim:
- Look for high-waisted button fly jeans with the iconic faded blue wash
- Acid washed jackets were also popular - try one over a graphic tee
- For a modern twist, opt for acid wash shorts or cutoffs
Neon & Pastels
Vibrant neon and pastel jeans stand out as a bold 80s trend. Often tight and high-waisted or with fun details like zippers or buttons, these statement jeans paired perfectly with oversize tops.
When trying colored 80s jeans:
- Look for pink, yellow, green or electric blue washes
- Aim for skinny, tapered or straight leg silhouettes
- Cuff wider leg openings to show off fun socks or sneakers
- Lean into the trend with matching tops in similar bright hues
Perm Up Those Bangs
Feathered Bangs
Feathered bangs are an iconic 80s hair trend. These wispy, winged out bangs swept to both sides to frame the face in a windswept style.
Tips for modern feathered bangs:
- Get inspiration from celebs like Kelly McGillis in Top Gun
- Ask your stylist for long side-swept bangs to recreate the look
- Use a large round brush when blow drying to sweep bangs out
- Hair spray will help hold the feathered shape in place
Curly Perms
While natural curls are beautiful, 80s gals often opted for permed tight curls all over their head for maxi volume.
When attempting 80s permed curls:
- Bring inspo pics of 80s celebs like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman
- Ask your stylist for small, tight curls rather than big waves
- Scrunch with mousse and diffuse upside down to build body
- Tease hair at the crown for an authentic 80s look
Bold Makeup Palette
Electric Eyeshadow
Blue, fuchsia, and green eye shadows popped against neutral skin and lips in the 80s. Paired with thick black liner, these punchy shadows created striking eye looks.
Tips for bold 80s eyeshadow:
- Swipe a bright matte shadow across the entire eyelid
- Try lighter shimmers on the inner corners and lid
- Use black liquid liner across top and bottom lash lines
- Finish with 2-3 coats of volumizing mascara
Blush It Out
Few things say 80s style more than bold blush. Pink, peach, and berry blush was applied heavily on the apples of cheeks for a flushed "just exercised" look.
When applying an 80s vibrant blush:
- Use bright matte formulas, avoiding subtle sheens
- Smile and apply blush heavily on the apples of cheeks
- Sweep up over cheekbones towards temples -Blend well so there are no harsh lines
Statement Accessories
Neon Sweatbands & Scrunchies
Activewear like leg warmers and neon sweatbands infiltrated 80s fashion trends. Sweatbands were often color coordinated with outfits in bright pinks, yellows or blues.
Tips for rocking 80s sweatbands:
- Wrap a cotton terrycloth sweatband around your forehead
- Style your hair pulled back with a matching scrunchie
- Coordinate with bright sneakers and leggings in similar hues
- Have fun mixing & matching colors for a bold effect
Chunky Jewelry & Belts
No 80s look is complete without oversize accessories. Chunky beaded necklaces, bamboo hoop earrings, and wide belts helped balance loose fitting clothing.
When accessorizing 80s style:
- Layer beaded necklaces in bright primary colors
- Try large hoop or bamboo drop earrings
- Use fabric belts to cinch loose button-downs
- Look for bangle bracelets with bright color blocks
Conclusion
Dressing in 80's style is about being bold, taking risks, and not being afraid to make a statement. By layering oversized tops with acid washed jeans, perming curly bangs, and piling on bright accessories, you can easily recreate iconic 80s fashion. So tease that hair, grab your neon sunglasses, and totally go for it with your raddest 80s look!
