Legends never truly disappear, and 1980s-inspired fashion is a testament to this notion. The decade’s influence on fashion has been profound, with many pieces still relevant today. Iconic silhouettes like bomber and leather jackets continue to evolve, incorporating new styles while maintaining their classic essence. The tumultuous 1970s, marked by the Vietnam War and economic instability, laid the groundwork for the transformative ’80s.
As the world stabilized, a plethora of innovative trends emerged, including fashion that reflected the era’s cultural and entertainment landscape. The rise of cable television, MTV’s launch in 1981, and the subsequent explosion of the music and film industries had a profound impact on the decade’s aesthetic. From Michael Jackson to Johnny Depp, John Travolta, David Bowie, and Tom Cruise, iconic figures permeated the ’80s.
Each of these style influencers left an indelible mark on fashion, ensuring their looks remain revered and emulated generations later.
How Did Men Dress In The ’80s?
In many ways, the 1980s were a defining era for men’s fashion. While some might argue that it was all about bold patterns and vibrant colors from designer brands like Ralph Lauren and Prada, the truth is that these factors only scratched the surface. Men’s style during this time was heavily influenced by their profession, interests, and lifestyle. For instance, a hip-hop enthusiast would likely dress differently than a preppy college student or a working professional.
The decade was marked by an explosion of creativity in terms of clothing, with men embracing bold, colorful, and often exaggerated styles. From the iconic silhouettes of hip-hop culture to the preppy polo shirts and chinos popular among certain social circles, the ’80s were a time of great experimentation and self-expression. And hairstyles were just as vibrant, featuring popular looks like perms, mohawks, buzzcuts, and mullets.
How To Style ’80s Outfits?
↓32 – Band T-Shirt
Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger were among the first brands to popularize this trend, which saw a surge in band tees as new music genres emerged. The oversized printed shirts that followed allowed individuals to customize their style by mixing and matching different prints. Earthy tones like green and brown are great options for incorporating these statement pieces into one’s wardrobe.
↓31 – Bomber Jacket
The iconic Air Force bomber jacket, often synonymous with military chic, was actually a staple in men’s wardrobes during the 1980s. However, it’s essential to note that the bomber jacket’s origins stretch back to World War II. The good news is that you can still rock this classic piece today without succumbing to clichés. For a more laid-back look, consider pairing a bomber with elements of a letterman or varsity jacket for a preppy, all-American vibe.
↓30 – Baggy Jumper And Jeans
In a bygone era, bold and vibrant knitwear was the norm at social gatherings. Men’s fashion often featured eye-catching colors and patterns, reminiscent of a retro aesthetic. However, for a modern event, consider a more understated approach with a jumper that exudes laid-back charm.
↓29 – Hawaiian Shirt
The resurgence of retro fashion is undeniable. A glance at current celebrity trends reveals that iconic styles from the past have made a triumphant return. The likes of Justin Bieber, for instance, have been spotted sporting Hawaiian shirts – a clear indicator that these outfits are back in vogue.
↓28 – Double Denim
The Canadian tuxedo, a questionable fashion choice today, was once de rigueur for men in the 1980s. To buck the trend and silence the naysayers, pair high-quality selvage denim with denim again, embracing the bold look that ruled the decade.
↓27 – Athleisure In The ’80s
While the concept of athleisure may have gained popularity in recent years, it’s essential to note that its roots date back further than the 1980s. In fact, tracksuits are an integral part of this category, which predates the iconic fashion trends of the decade. When it comes to finding high-quality workout attire and gym wear, reputable brands like Nike, Adidas, and Lulu Lemon offer a range of stylish and functional options.
↓26 – Neon Colors
Neon’s ubiquitous presence in the ’80s is undeniable, with its vibrant hues permeating everything from signs to movie screens. The trend has even gained enough traction to warrant a modern-day revival. As we revisit neon’s heyday, it’s as if we’re reliving the decade’s fashion narrative. The iconic branding of ’80s style still resonates today.
↓25 – Suits
In the 1980s, single-breasted coats were a staple of most suits. However, there was a less formal option for those who wanted to dress down: patterned sports coats featuring plaids, pinstripes, and herringbone designs. This style has stood the test of time and is still used today as a way to make a statement rather than simply following uniform standards. Modern designs often incorporate sharp cuts and wide shoulder pads, making it a versatile option for both business and casual occasions.
↓24 – Parachute Pants
In the 1980s, slim-cut nylon pants with zippers on the legs emerged as a distinct fashion trend. Their popularity was initially fueled by the Techno music and breakdancing communities, before eventually becoming a mainstream phenomenon. Interestingly, these parachute pants shared their material with windbreakers of the same era. For comparison, harem pants, which would later gain traction in the 1990s, were not yet on the fashion radar at this point.
↓23 – ’80s Casual
Nostalgia surrounds us as we reminisce about the iconic dad outfits of the 1980s. The decade’s fashion trends continue to influence modern styles, with windbreakers, bomber jackets, and sweaters being staple pieces in creating a retro-inspired look. To bring this era back into your wardrobe, follow our comprehensive guide to discover the most popular casual outfit ideas for men.
↓22 – ’80s Hip-Hop Culture
Elevate your style with a modern twist by incorporating relaxed-fit pants and sporty pieces into your wardrobe. Dubbed ‘contemporary streetwear,’ this aesthetic is all about embracing comfort and practicality while still looking great.
↓21 – Preppy Look
In the 1980s, there emerged a distinct style that blended elements from both hip-hop and preppy fashion. Characterized by bold colors, this hybrid look was a departure from the typical darker tones often associated with hip-hop. Preppy outfits, on the other hand, were known for their bright hues and refined sensibilities. Here are some notable examples of preppy attire that defined the era.
↓20 – ’80s Summer Style
Summer style owes a significant debt to the classic preppy aesthetic. To capture the essence of this look, start by incorporating bold and vibrant colours into your wardrobe through bright-hued tops, bottoms, or shorts. Think loud and proud!
↓19 – Rock Fashion
↓18 – Punk Culture
In the 1980s, punk culture emerged as a rebellious force, countering the mainstream’s emphasis on consumerism with its own DIY ethos. This anti-establishment vibe was reflected in their distinctive fashion sense, which often featured safety pins and chains incorporated into clothing. To replicate this aesthetic, one must possess a certain level of boldness, exemplified by hairstyles such as dyed mohawks or pixie cuts.
↓17 – For Plus-Size Men
In the late 1980s, Memphis-style patterned shirts were all the rage among teenagers and young men, characterized by bold and vibrant abstract designs that made a statement. The fashion scene was particularly fond of these eye-catching patterns, which added a touch of excitement to everyday attire.
↓16 – Stranger Things Outfit
↓15 – Jeans
The 1980s were the heyday of loose-fitting jeans, with Levi’s, Lee, and Wrangler dominating the market. What set these iconic pants apart was their distinctive fabric treatment and practical waistbands. A defining feature of ’80s men’s fashion was the pleated design, although it’s unlikely you’d get away with that look today without facing ridicule.
To achieve a similar aesthetic in modern times, consider opting for stone-wash or acid-wash designs featuring high-rise waists, tapered legs, and cuffed ankles. For an added touch of functionality, incorporating cargo pockets into your jeans is also recommended.
↓14 – Sunglasses
The 80s were a time when fashion was all about making a statement, and no one embodied that spirit more than Tom Cruise. In the iconic 1984 film ‘Risky Business,’ he famously wore his Ray-Ban Aviator sunglasses with confidence and swagger, cementing their status as a symbol of coolness. The image has been etched in our collective memory ever since, reminding us of the power of fashion to define an era.
↓13 – 1980s-Inspired Hairstyles
A versatile hairstyle is crucial for modern professionals, as it can seamlessly adapt to various settings. For instance, a sleek, low-maintenance style is perfect for office environments where a professional image is essential. On the other hand, more relaxed occasions call for a mullet-inspired look, characterized by shorter locks on the front and sides, paired with longer hair in the back.
Some individuals may also opt for textured, curly styles through perms or similar treatments, resulting in defined coils that add depth to their overall appearance.
↓12 – Michael Jackson Look
Michael Jackson’s impact on fashion cannot be overstated. His flamboyant flair was as iconic as his moonwalking moves. He effortlessly merged streetwear chic with high-fashion elegance, making him a true pioneer in popularizing fashion. The 80s and 90s witnessed the rise of MJ-inspired fashion trends, where loose tops, baggy flared pants, and statement leather jackets became staples of his signature style.
↓11 – Denim
↓10 – Grunge Vibe
The laid-back aesthetic, popularized by Kurt Cobain in the 1990s, has its roots in the 1980s. This rebellious style is a deliberate rejection of the fastidious approach to fashion that dominates today’s culture. By embracing a carefree attitude and a ‘who-cares-what-you-think’ vibe, individuals can create a unique look that’s as much about self-expression as it is about nonconformity.
↓9 – Denim Jacket
The oversized denim jacket, a staple of 1980s fashion, has made a comeback. To recreate this retro look, opt for a modern take with functional pockets and ornate brass buttons. Adding cuffs to the wrist can also give your outfit a stylish touch. For inspiration, explore our curated selection of Denim Jacket Outfits For Men and get ready to channel the iconic style of yesteryear.
↓8 – Dress Pants
In contrast to jeans, which have a distinct cuff feature, ’80s pants lacked this characteristic. Instead, dress pants of the era were crafted from a variety of materials including double-knit polyester, cotton twill, corduroy, and wool. The typical waist design featured straight legs and loose thighs. By the end of the decade, flat-front pants had become a staple in many men’s wardrobes.
The palette for dress pants was relatively subdued, with black, khaki, navy, and grey being the most popular colours – an understated yet suitable match for suit jackets.
↓7 – Shorts
The 1970s’ shorts revival gained momentum in the 1980s, with distinct styles emerging for different age groups. Younger men opted for mid-thigh length shorts, while their older counterparts preferred knee-length options. The trend was characterised by a wide range of colours and fabrics, including knit, cotton, and denim. These versatile garments were often paired with an array of tops, from classic button-downs to cosy knitwear.
↓6 – Bandanas
In the 1980s, bandanas took on a new role as a fashion staple, often worn as a headband. The influence of metal bands like Metallica played a significant part in this trend, with men emulating the style and incorporating it into their everyday looks.
↓5 – ’80s Shoes
High-top sneakers like Air Jordan owe their enduring popularity to the ’80s, a decade that witnessed Michael Jackson’s influence in popular culture. This iconic footwear style has seen a resurgence in recent years, with retro-inspired designs making a comeback. The Chuck Taylor All-Star brand, which once enjoyed a revival of its classic designs, is now back in vogue.
Additionally, Doc Martens have become a staple in many people’s wardrobes, while the ’80s phenomenon of men going sockless with loafers has also made a lasting impact on fashion.
↓4 – Bright Colors
↓3 – Ugly Sweater Trend
In the 1980s, hand-knit sweaters were a staple for preppy men, serving as a versatile layering option during fall and winter. The majority of these sweaters took the form of either pullovers or jumpers, with various necklines to choose from, including turtlenecks, V-necks, and crewnecks. Cardigans, too, were an integral part of men’s knitwear, allowing for a stylish yet practical layering solution that remains popular today in both casual and professional settings.
↓2 – Sweater Vest
Elevate your style with the classic charm of a ‘Country Club’ ensemble, courtesy of a stylish sweater vest. While traditional sweater vests tend to feature V-necks, this look can also be achieved through patterns such as argyle, soft pastels, and intricate cable knits, offering a versatile wardrobe option for those seeking a timeless aesthetic.
↓1 – Ties
In the 1980s, ties were a staple accessory for men, particularly those in professional settings. These neckties came in a variety of patterns, including diagonal stripes, dots, and paisley. This era was characterized by an emphasis on self-expression and individuality, making ties a popular means for men to showcase their personality and style.
