THE ULTIMATE FASHION HISTORY: The 1980s
40KToday on The Ultimate Fashion History, we’re diving deep into the fabulous, over-the-top world of 1980s fashion. I’m your host, and this era is one of my personal favorites to explore. The 80s were a time of bold colors, big hair, and even bigger personalities, and the fashion reflected that perfectly.
One of the key aspects of 80s fashion was the rise of power dressing. Women in particular embraced power dressing as a way to assert their authority in the workplace. This meant sharp shoulders, tailored suits, and bold patterns. The iconic 80s power suit became a symbol of female empowerment, and designers like Giorgio Armani and Donna Karan were at the forefront of this trend.
But it wasn’t just about suits in the 80s. The decade also saw the rise of the athleisure trend, with designers like Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren creating stylish sportswear that could take you from the gym to the streets. Tracksuits, leggings, and oversized sweatshirts became wardrobe staples for both men and women.
Of course, no discussion of 80s fashion would be complete without mentioning the influence of music and pop culture. Icons like Madonna, Prince, and Michael Jackson all played a significant role in shaping the fashion of the decade. Madonna’s edgy, punk-inspired looks and Michael Jackson’s signature red leather jacket and glove became instant classics that are still emulated today.
Speaking of iconic looks, let’s talk about the hair of the 80s. Big hair was a major trend in the decade, with perms, mullets, and teased styles ruling the runways and the streets. The higher the hair, the closer to heaven was the motto of the day, and women (and some men) embraced this trend with gusto.
But it wasn’t just about big hair in the 80s. Makeup was also a big part of the fashion landscape, with bold colors, exaggerated eyebrows, and bright lips dominating the beauty scene. The iconic blue eyeshadow, neon lipsticks, and heavy blush were all staples of 80s makeup, and women weren’t afraid to make a statement with their looks.
One of the most memorable fashion moments of the 80s was the rise of the supermodels. Names like Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, and Linda Evangelista became household names, and their fierce runway walks and glamorous editorials helped to define the fashion of the decade. Supermodels became celebrities in their own right, and their influence on the fashion industry is still felt today.
As we wrap up our look at The Ultimate Fashion History of the 1980s, it’s clear that this decade was a time of excess, boldness, and creativity. From power dressing to athleisure, music icons to supermodels, the 80s had something for everyone when it came to fashion. So next time you’re feeling the need for a little retro inspiration, why not take a page from the fabulous, over-the-top world of 1980s fashion?
