In 1983, Cyndi Lauper released her hit album She’s so Unusual that included the iconic anthem for girls everywhere, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun.” But the album’s title could also easily describe the fashion sense of the decade, including of course, Lauper’s own.
Love it or hate, 1980’s fashion was a mix of loud, bright, baggy, unusual and more is more. If there’s one decade most of us would like to forget, it’s the 80s.
But the era of the “Material Girl” and “Thriller” did have some magic moments when it came to fashion, and with some minor tweaking, many of the looks have staged comebacks.
The return of mega accessorizing with chunky pieces, statement necklaces and layered bracelets is an ode to Madonna’s early looks. MJ’s decade-defining red leather jacket inspired a slew of shrunken motorcycle jackets in leather, faux leather and even lighter fabrics like denim or khaki. It’s a must-have staple to toughen up a feminine spring dress.
Loose, off-the-shoulder tops are perfect for pairing with the ubiquitous legging (Flashdance anyone?). And we’ve even taken it to a new level this decade creating the not-so eloquently christened, “jegging.” Shoulders made a big splash last season with boxy blazers and warrior-like padding up top and although they’ve softened up this year, shoulder details remain in vogue.
Another ode to Madonna, we saw underwear as outerwear on many spring runways. And although we’re all for lacy tops under fitted blazers or loose cardigans, those 1980’s bustiers should probably stay back in the Material Girl’s “Like a Virgin” days, along with the backcombed hair.
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Shop the Look
Stock up on bangles and beads at Aldo and skip the acid wash in favour of a pair of light wash skinny jeans at The Gap.
Toughen it up with a faux leather motorcycle jacket from Stitches and play with the dimensions of your shoulders at Zara.
And finish off the look with a pair of Doc Martens-inspired lace-up boots from Spring.