The 1980s was an era of bold fashion statements, vibrant colors, and unique styles. Among the many trends of that decade, womens casual fashion stood out for its comfort and versatility. This style allowed women to express themselves through their clothing in a more relaxed and laid-back way. From oversized t-shirts to high-waisted jeans, 80s casual fashion is making a comeback in the modern world. In this blog post, we will explore the iconic outfits, fabrics and patterns, accessories, and modern takes on 80s casual fashion, bringing back the nostalgia and reviving retro style.
Introduction to 80s Fashion
The 1980s was a time when fashion was all about making a statement and standing out from the crowd. It was a decade of excess and extravagance, with fashion trends reflecting the economic growth and consumerism of the time. The 80s were also a time of experimentation and breaking free from traditional fashion norms. This led to the rise of various subcultures, each with its own unique style and fashion choices.
While the 80s saw the emergence of many different fashion trends, casual wear was one of the most popular among women. This style went against the formal and structured clothing of the previous decade, focusing on comfort and individuality. It was characterized by oversized silhouettes, bold colors, and mix-and-match of various elements.
Iconic 80s Casual Outfits
The 80s gave birth to some of the most iconic casual outfits that are still relevant and loved today. Let’s take a look at some of these timeless trends that defined womens casual fashion in the 80s.
Power Suits
In the corporate world, power suits were a staple for women in the 80s. These suits were tailored, structured, and often came in bold colors such as red, blue, and yellow. They were a symbol of female empowerment and breaking free from the traditional masculine work attire. Power suits were usually paired with shoulder pads, which were popular during this decade, giving women a strong and confident look.
Oversized T-Shirts
Oversized t-shirts were a hit in the 80s and continue to be a staple in casual wear today. Women would often pair oversized band or graphic t-shirts with leggings or high-waisted jeans for a comfortable yet stylish look. These t-shirts added an element of fun and rebellion to womens fashion, as they were seen as a way to challenge traditional beauty standards and gender roles.
Acid Wash Jeans
Acid wash jeans were all the rage in the 80s, thanks to popular culture icons like Madonna and Cindy Lauper. These jeans were characterized by a bleached and wrinkled effect, giving them a unique and edgy look. They were usually worn with oversized tops or tucked into high-top sneakers for a complete casual outfit. Today, acid wash jeans have made a comeback in the fashion world, proving that some trends never go out of style.
Sweatshirts and Leggings
Sweatshirts and leggings were another popular combination in the 80s. Women would opt for oversized sweatshirts in bright colors and patterns and pair them with form-fitting leggings. This was a comfortable yet stylish choice for everyday wear, and it continues to be a go-to outfit for many women today.
Denim Jackets
Denim jackets were a must-have item in every woman’s wardrobe in the 80s. They were versatile, easy to style, and provided just the right amount of warmth for cooler days. Denim jackets were often adorned with patches, pins, and buttons, adding a personal touch to the outfit. Today, denim jackets are still a popular choice for casual wear, and the 80s influence can be seen in their designs and embellishments.
Fabrics and Patterns of the 80s
The fabrics and patterns used in 80s fashion were just as bold and vibrant as the overall style. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular choices of that decade.
Neon Colors
Neon colors were a major trend in the 80s, with women sporting bright pinks, greens, yellows, and oranges in their outfits. These colors were often seen in fluorescent hues, adding an element of fun and excitement to any outfit. From neon t-shirts to leggings and even accessories, these colors were everywhere in the 80s.
Bold Prints
From animal prints to geometric patterns, bold prints were another trademark of 80s fashion. Women would mix and match different prints and patterns to create unique and eye-catching outfits. Zebra stripes, polka dots, and checks were among the most popular choices, giving women the freedom to express their individual style.
Denim Everything
The 80s was the decade when denim became a wardrobe staple for women. Denim jeans, jackets, skirts, and even jumpsuits were all the rage. As mentioned earlier, acid wash jeans were a popular choice, but plain and simple denim was also a go-to option for many. Denim allowed women to make a statement without being too over-the-top, making it a timeless fabric in casual fashion.
Velvet
Velvet was another fabric that gained popularity in the 80s. It was luxurious, soft, and added a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Women would often opt for velvet blazers or dresses for special occasions, but it also made its way into everyday wear in the form of tops, skirts, and pants.
Stripes
Stripes were a popular pattern in the 80s, with both horizontal and vertical stripes making their mark in womens casual fashion. Striped t-shirts, dresses, and skirts were all the rage, adding a touch of nautical and preppy elements to outfits. Today, stripes continue to be a staple in casual wear, but with a modern twist and updated designs.
Accessories That Defined the Era
No outfit is complete without the right accessories, and the 80s had some iconic pieces that defined the decade’s style. Let’s take a look at some of these accessories that added the perfect finishing touch to womens casual outfits.
Scrunchies
Scrunchies were a must-have accessory in the 80s, with women using them to tie back their hair or wear them around their wrists as a fashion statement. These fabric-covered hair ties came in various colors and patterns, adding a fun and playful element to any outfit. Today, scrunchies have made a comeback in the fashion world, proving that some trends are timeless.
Headbands
Headbands were another popular accessory in the 80s, often worn to keep hair out of the face while still looking stylish. Women would opt for thick, colorful headbands, often adorned with bows, studs, or beads. Some even took it a step further and wore multiple headbands at once, adding a unique touch to their outfits.
Chunky Jewelry
The 80s was all about excess, and this was evident in the jewelry choices of that era. Women would often opt for chunky and bold jewelry pieces in gold or silver, adding a touch of glamour to their casual outfits. Oversized hoop earrings, layered necklaces, and statement rings were all the rage, making a bold statement and completing the 80s look.
Fanny Packs
Fanny packs, also known as waist bags, were a popular choice for women in the 80s. They were practical and convenient, allowing women to carry their essentials while still looking fashionable. Fanny packs often came in bright colors or bold prints, adding a pop of color to any outfit. Today, fanny packs have made a comeback and are seen as a trendy and functional accessory.
High-Top Sneakers
One cannot talk about 80s fashion without mentioning high-top sneakers. These shoes were everywhere in the 80s, and women would pair them with various casual outfits for a cool and edgy look. From classic Converse to colorful Reebok high-tops, these shoes were a staple in womens casual fashion and continue to be popular today.
Modern Takes on 80s Casual Fashion
The 80s may be long gone, but its influence can still be seen in modern fashion. Many designers and brands are bringing back elements of 80s casual fashion, giving it a modern twist and making it relevant for today’s world. Let’s take a look at some of the ways 80s fashion is being revived in the modern era.
Oversized Blazers
Oversized blazers were a popular choice in the 80s, and they have made a major comeback in recent years. Today, women are opting for oversized blazers in various colors and patterns, pairing them with everything from jeans to dresses. This trend adds a touch of power dressing to any outfit, just like it did in the 80s.
Neon Accents
Neon colors are making a comeback in the fashion world, with designers incorporating them into their collections in various ways. From neon accents on clothing to accessories, this trend is a nod to the vibrant and bold style of the 80s. One can easily add a pop of neon to their outfit through statement earrings, belts, or even a pair of neon sneakers.
High-Waisted Jeans
High-waisted jeans were a staple in 80s fashion and continue to be popular today. However, they have been given a modern update with different cuts, washes, and styles. Women can choose from straight leg, mom jeans, or even wide-leg high-waisted jeans, making them a versatile option for casual wear.
Denim on Denim
Denim on denim was a major trend in the 80s, and it is back in the fashion scene today. This time around, the Canadian tuxedo is being styled in a more subtle and sophisticated way, making it a chic and stylish choice for any occasion. A denim jacket paired with jeans in a different wash or a denim skirt with a denim shirt are some ways to rock this trend.
Scrunchies Galore
Scrunchies have made a comeback in recent years, with women styling them in various ways. From simple ponytails to intricate updos, scrunchies are being used to add a touch of color and texture to hairstyles. They are also being worn as bracelets, just like in the 80s, adding a fun and playful element to any outfit.
Conclusion
The 80s may have been a decade of excess and extravagance, but its influence on fashion continues to be felt even today. Womens casual fashion in the 80s gave women the freedom to express themselves through their clothing and challenged traditional beauty standards and gender roles. With bold colors, unique patterns, and comfortable silhouettes, 80s fashion has left its mark on the world of style and continues to be revived in modern takes on casual wear. So why not embrace the nostalgia and revive retro by adding some 80s elements to your wardrobe? After all, some trends never go out of style.
