Some of today’s hottest trends are a nod to the rebellious and energetic style of the 1980s. While some trends are better left behind, I must admit that our mothers knew a thing or two about fashion. Here are some of my favorite 80s inspired trends!
1. Dancewear
The classic 80s style of legwarmers and cut off sweatshirts is what most people think of with the dancewear trend (think Flashdance). Those collegiettes seriously knew how to make comfortable clothes trendy, but there is a way to make this trend less dance-studio and more street worthy. Off-the-shoulder sweaters and flowing skirts over leotards have made a serious comeback in today’s fashion, though the neon hues have been replaced thankfully, (sorry mom) by more subdued neutrals.
2. Doc Martens
The punk and grunge scene of the late 80s made these military-inspired boots the height of fashion. Doc Martens have made a huge comeback in the past few years. Revamped with a ton of different colors, patterns, and styles, they are now more creative than the basic black of the 1980s. The mixture of these grunge-inspired shoes with girly pieces like a lace dress or shirt keeps them from looking too boyish.
3. Stonewash Denim
Bleached high-waisted jeans were an 80s college girl staple, and the hard rock image of this denim trend is now making a reappearance. Whether it’s skinny bleached jeans worn with a cropped sweater, or a stonewash denim jacket thrown over a tank top, this style is both easy to wear and super cute.
4. Cut Out Shoulders
The rebellious nature of the 80s was further embodied by collegiettes through creatively showing skin (in a classy way of course). The strategic cut-out sleeves on blouses were (and still are) an easy way to make a somewhat boring blouse into a trendy, while still tasteful, top. The cutout sleeves have made a full comeback as they are now on everything from sweaters to dresses. And if you are feeling adventurous, you can easily DIY this trend from an old oversized blouse.
5. Shoulder Pads
Now before you cringe at the thought of this usually-mocked-80s-trend, there is a way to wear this style without looking like a football linebacker. Small structured shoulder pads make any dress or blazer look more streamlined and high fashion. A definite standout piece (and often times the pads are removable if you want to mix it up) shoulder pads have returned.
The 80s are making a full fashion comeback so get inspired by listening to some Madonna, watching The Breakfast Club and start raiding your mom’s closet!