Is The 80s Fashion Back In Style? 4 Fashion Pieces You Need To Have!

As MTV was reshaping pop culture, new fashion houses were on the rise, and computer technology was starting to turn the tides of the century, the period of 80s fashion was soon to become one of the most iconic style eras of all time. Neon everything, denim, high-waisted trousers, trainers, oversized coats and sweaters - 80s fashion was timeless, funky, dramatic, and bright. You want to wear it on your night outs and stay-ins. So whether it was the disco, rock or hip-hop inspired 80s fashion, all we can say is - it’s back in style, not just in fashion, but in culture. 

Synth-pop and disco music are already topping song charts, and the craving for the nostalgia from the 80s has returned. We’re telling you all you need to know about what 80s fashion trends are so you can show off your vintage style using 80s and Y2K fashion outfits inspired by some of the major celebrities from the time.

The Trendsetters Of 80s Fashion

If there’s one thing the world of fashion knows for sure, then it’s the fact that the era of 80s fashion was one of the most experimental eras in terms of styles of all time. And, of course, that was because of the many 80s fashion icons that influenced it.

The 1980s was a decade of bold, flamboyant fashion choices. Women's fashion featured power dressing, with shoulder pads and suits in bright colors like fuchsia, electric blue, and neon green. Leggings, leg warmers, and spandex were popular for both casual wear and exercise. Big hair was in, with voluminous curls, perms, and teased styles. Acid-washed denim, leather jackets, and band t-shirts were also popular. Accessories like chunky jewelry, oversized sunglasses, and headbands completed the look. 80s fashion was all about making a statement and standing out from the crowd.

1. Oversized blazers 

When you think of everyday 80s fashion, oversized blazers are one of the top fashion pieces that come to mind. That’s because they had become a staple in the 80s as street-style wear. Oversized blazers are the perfect mix of casual and formal - great for heading to work on a Friday. 

There’s a lot you can do with this 80s fashion statement. They may not seem like the right fashion piece for the summer, but who needs pants when you can style your oversized blazer as a dress? That gives you room for experimentation too. Pair your oversized blazer dress with pumps for a clean 80s fashion look. But if you’re looking for some punk 80s fashion, you’ll need an oversized black blazer, preferably a leather one, to get started. 

2. Sneakers

Sneakers were initially popular among rock 80s fashion enthusiasts and hip-hop lovers from the 80s. But eventually, the trend took off like wildfire, and it hasn’t really died ever since. Every new era after the 80s has always had sneakers in style. Of course, that’s not a surprise. They’re comfortable and versatile - two very important qualities for a fashion statement to become evergreen. That’s why even in 2023, sneakers still remain in style with their new ‘chunky’ style. You could pair them with a dress, a blazer, or a mini-skirt. The outfit just ties together as one when you add sneakers to the mix. 

3. High Waisted Trousers & Jeans

80s fashion was recognised for its high-waisted trousers paired with belts and neon colours. Who doesn’t love tummy-hugging trousers that accentuate your curves? No wonder high-waisted trousers are back in style. 

Leather, denim, slit, bell-bottom - so much to choose from. If you want to style a neutral-toned pair of trousers and want to nail that neon 80s fashion look, consider pairing it with a colourful top and other neutral accessories. Or you can bring the attention back to the trousers by trying out different shades, textures and patterns. Finally, complete the look by wearing a black belt, or don’t - you’re going to look great with high-waisted trousers no matter how you wear them!

4. Animal Print 

The 80s fashion era was all about bright, bold and beautiful style statements. And more importantly, it was all about experimentation. That’s why animal prints on clothes have become the centre of attention of every major fashion house. Tops, tights, blazers, bandanas - if your 80s outfit didn’t have at least a hint of animal print, you were doing something wrong. You would find animal print clothes as the classic disco 80s fashion at all the parties. 

We already have seen a return of the animal print trend in 2023. Well-known models have been captured by the paparazzi causally rocking animal print pantsuits and blazers. That’s the thing about animal print - if you want it to be minimal, it can be, but if you want it to be eye-catching, you can style it to do that too. There’s no limit to how and where you can wear animal prints.

Who Inspired Your 80s Fashion Look? 

Which 80s fashion icon inspired you to try the comeback trends from 80s fashion? Was it Princess Diana with her casual yet royal looks or Whitney Houston with her high-waisted trousers and oversized blazers? Now that you know what’s 80s fashion and all the trends that came with it. NA-KD has the styles you want, including 90s fashion or 00 fashion. We’d love to see how you style your outfits, so don’t forget to tag NA-KD on all your OOTD posts.