The 1980s were an era of bold fashion, vibrant colors, and daring styles What Was Women’s Fashion in the 80s? characterized by oversized silhouettes, bright neon colors, extravagant accessories, and a mix of punk, glam, and athletic influences. The decade was all about self-expression, and fashion trends reflected the dynamic cultural shifts happening at the time. In this article, we will explore what was women’s fashion in the 80s, from power dressing to casual streetwear, and how it continues to influence modern fashion trends.
Power Dressing and Corporate Fashion
One of the most iconic trends of 80s women’s fashion was power dressing. This was a direct response to the increasing number of women entering the workforce and wanting to project authority and confidence in male-dominated spaces. The power suit became a staple, featuring:
- Shoulder pads: Exaggerated, padded shoulders created a strong, structured look.
- Blazers with sharp cuts: Often paired with pencil skirts or pleated trousers.
- Bold colors and patterns: From solid pastels to pinstripes and plaid.
- Blouses with large bows: Also known as “pussy bow blouses,” these were often worn under blazers.
Women embraced a look that was both professional and stylish, making corporate fashion one of the defining trends of the decade.
Neon and Bright Colors
When discussing what was women’s fashion in the 80s, we cannot overlook the explosion of bright colors. Neon pinks, electric blues, and fluorescent greens were everywhere, from clothing to accessories. These vibrant shades were popular in:
- Leggings and tights
- Windbreakers and athletic wear
- Dresses and skirts
- Accessories such as bangles, belts, and scrunchies
Mixing and matching these bold hues was a common fashion statement, and clashing colors were encouraged.
Denim Craze
Denim was a major trend in 80s women’s fashion. Acid-wash jeans, high-waisted denim, and denim jackets dominated casual and streetwear styles. Women wore:
- Mom jeans: High-waisted, relaxed-fit jeans that are making a comeback today.
- Denim skirts: Often mini-length or pencil-style with buttons down the front.
- Denim jackets: Sometimes oversized and decorated with patches or embellishments.
- Denim-on-denim: The double denim look was a popular styling choice.
Punk and Rock-Inspired Fashion
The punk movement had a major influence on 80s fashion, leading to edgier and rebellious styles. Women who embraced this trend often wore:
- Leather jackets: Often paired with band t-shirts or ripped jeans.
- Fishnet stockings: Worn under skirts or shorts.
- Studded accessories: Including belts, bracelets, and chokers.
- Heavy boots: Dr. Martens and combat boots were a staple.
- Dark makeup and bold hairstyles: Black eyeliner, teased hair, and colorful highlights.
Punk fashion was all about breaking the rules and making a statement.
Workout and Aerobic-Inspired Looks
Fitness culture exploded in the 80s, largely influenced by workout videos from celebrities like Jane Fonda. This led to the rise of athleisure wear and sporty styles that became everyday fashion. Women frequently wore:
- Leg warmers: Often paired with leggings or tights.
- Bodysuits: In bright colors and high-cut styles.
- Headbands and sweatbands: A key accessory for the look.
- Spandex leggings: Usually in neon shades or animal prints.
- Oversized off-the-shoulder sweatshirts: A casual yet trendy look.
These styles were worn both in and out of the gym, blending fitness with fashion.
Preppy and Collegiate Styles
On the opposite end of punk and rock fashion, the preppy look was also a major trend in the 80s. Inspired by upper-class Ivy League fashion, preppy women’s clothing included:
- Sweater vests: Often layered over collared shirts.
- Plaid skirts and blazers: Giving off a polished, sophisticated look.
- Polo shirts: Worn with khakis or pleated skirts.
- Loafers and boat shoes: Comfortable yet stylish footwear choices.
- Pearls and headbands: Classic accessories that completed the look.
This style was clean-cut, polished, and slightly conservative, making it popular among young professionals and college students.
Extravagant Accessories and Jewelry
The 80s were all about excess, and this was especially true when it came to accessories. Women wore large, bold, and eye-catching jewelry, including:
- Chunky gold chains and earrings
- Oversized hoop earrings
- Multiple bangle bracelets
- Big belts: Often cinched at the waist over dresses or blazers.
- Scrunchies and hair bows: Popular for high ponytails and side ponytails.
Accessories were often just as statement-making as the clothes themselves.
Iconic Hairstyles and Makeup
The 80s was a decade of dramatic hair and makeup trends. Women embraced big, voluminous hair, often teased and sprayed to perfection. Popular hairstyles included:
- Permed curls
- Crimped hair
- Side ponytails
- Feathered layers
- Mullets (yes, even for women!)
Makeup trends were equally bold, featuring:
- Bright eyeshadow: Blue, pink, and purple were popular shades.
- Heavy blush: Applied generously on the cheeks.
- Bold lipstick: Reds and hot pinks were go-to colors.
- Dramatic eyeliner and mascara
Influence of Celebrities and Pop Culture
Women’s fashion in the 80s was heavily influenced by pop culture and celebrities. Some of the biggest fashion icons included:
- Madonna: Known for her punk-meets-glam style with lace, fishnets, and layered jewelry.
- Princess Diana: A royal fashion icon who popularized elegant yet trendy looks.
- Cyndi Lauper: Famous for her eclectic, colorful, and quirky outfits.
- Joan Collins (from Dynasty): Embodied the power dressing trend with glamorous, structured outfits.
Movies, music videos, and TV shows played a major role in shaping fashion trends.
The Legacy of 80s Women’s Fashion
Although the 80s ended decades ago, its fashion trends continue to inspire modern styles. Many elements of 80s fashion, such as oversized blazers, mom jeans, neon colors, and chunky accessories, have made a strong comeback in recent years. The decade’s emphasis on self-expression, individuality, and confidence still resonates in today’s fashion industry.
Conclusion
So, what was women’s fashion in the 80s? It was bold, expressive, and unapologetically unique. Whether it was power dressing for the corporate world, embracing the punk-rock aesthetic, or going all out with neon workout gear, women in the 80s truly knew how to make a fashion statement. And even today, we continue to see echoes of this unforgettable era in contemporary fashion trends.
