Here’s Why I’m for the 80s Style Comeback
Image Courtesy: Strike Magazine Tallahassee
Within this decade, fashion has transitioned into wearing essential clothing items with slicked-back hair for a clean look. We’ve all seen the classic low-rise, white-washed jeans with a simple white tank or body suit and gold jewelry paired with a ponytail or bun. Since the release of SKIMS in 2019, fashion has been embracing minimalistic looks. Yet, as we’re entering the middle of 2023, 80s styles have been making a comeback in fashion—and here’s why I’m so here for it.
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Denim Everything
Wearing denim was a staple in 80s fashion, just like wearing chunky gold hoops is now. Oversized denim jackets and bomber jackets were popular pieces that you could throw over any outfit. Now, we see influencers like Alix Earl bringing them back for her University of Miami game days. As for jeans, the 70s introduced flared bottoms (which I am obsessed with), and the 80s was a transitional period to high-waisted jeans. The 80s also began introducing distressed jeans, which of course, is common now in streetwear looks.
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Androgynous Fashion
In this decade, we embrace androgynous fashion, but the appreciation for androgyny hasn’t only been recent. It began in the 80s, with the popularity of oversized sweatshirts paired with jeans. Although the 80s was a colorful time, casual styles included basic colors and a lack of accessories. And let’s not forget the colorful blazers and pant suits that contributed to this as well.
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Cropped Tops and Jackets
Cropped tops were also very common and have also become a staple closet item in the modern day. Men have once again started to embrace cropped tops like they first did in the 80s. Men would usually pair this with jeans while women would usually wear cropped tops with high-waisted jeans or over a colored shirt paired with a miniskirt, jeans, or colorful bottoms. Also, bomber jackets and letterman jackets were everything! We see this trend coming back with girls often pairing an oversized jacket or thrifted letterman jacket with their outfits.
Image Courtesy: Fashion Inclusive
Shoes and Accessories
The 80s kickstarted the trend of Reebok and Converse sneakers. Again, these shoes have made a comeback—especially Reebok sneakers with casual everyday outfits. Another big hit was jelly shoes. Even as a 2000s baby, I loved these shoes when I was younger. Jelly shoes were made in all colors but one of the favorites that have grown in popularity recently is the clear version. For accessories, headbands, scrunchies, and bold earrings were popular. Trucker hats were also worn, which have become common in fashion now. Fanny packs were also an iconic accessory of the 80s.
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With the rise of TikTok and Instagram reels, we have seen more outfit trends become popular, with many representing and embodying 80s fashion. And yes, I am all here for it.
Strike Out,
Writer: Natalie Willis
Editor: Jayna O
Graphic Designer: Sophia Diaz
Tallahassee