8 Trends from 80s Fashion That Are Back in Demand in 2022

You may know how the 1980s transformed the fashion industry if you are a fashion lover. Today, we still look up to fashion trends and icons that dominated the 1980s. It is well known that fashion trends come and go, and in fact, there is a typical life-cycle of 20 to 30 years for fashion trends. 

It's great to report that, after decades of being consigned to the bargain bin, 80's fashion has had a resurgence. Several designers are dusting off the party outfits their parents once wore and pairing them up to create new looks. Trends from decades ago are making a triumphant comeback in this season. Over the past few years, fashion has increasingly been influenced by the rave culture of the 1990s, complete with bucket hats and high-waisted jeans, yet the renaissance of the 1980s still persists.

What were the 80s all about?

In the 1980s, power suits, big hair, and neon colours were popular. These 1980s style items, such as oversized jackets and pearl earrings, are not the latest 2022 trends but merely reinterpretations of the 1980s style. It's no surprise that today's entrepreneurs and influencers are looking to the days when power equalled style when yuppies and business tycoons set the trend.

As a decade of brilliance, the 1980s are often associated with exaggeration and opulence. It's refreshing to upgrade your wardrobe with a little display of stylised fashion after wearing pieces that prioritise comfort. Fashion in the 1980s was also very much influenced by athletic clothing. As new materials and production methods have become popular and an even greater fascination with sports like jogging and aerobics has grown, pieces like leg warmers and headbands have become classic components of the 80s fashion. 

Let’s not forget that the 1980s introduced us to fishnets and leg warmers, served up electric colourways and the naked dresses, and had shoulder pads sewn into any blazer and blouse that designers permitted. In addition, it wasn't just the clothing that became historic, but the women who became iconic are the same women we draw inspiration from today. We all remember Princess Diana's revenge dress and the turtleneck-under-a-sweater. We can also recall Madonna's corsets, tulle, and multiple layers of jewellery. The costumes worn by Demi Moore and Molly Ringwald challenged gendered dress norms, while Lisa Bonet promoted a cool, eclectic look. It is possible to find an '80s aesthetic to match every style preference if you dig deep enough.

80s trends making a comeback

We don't know how you feel about 80s fashion creeping into the 21st century. You may be thrilled, horrified, or surprised.  

Let’s take a look at some of the trends from 80s fashion that are back in demand this year:

1. Turtlenecks

In cooler weather, turtlenecks are a necessity for keeping warm and cosy. The added coverage helps you keep warm when temperatures drop. No matter how the turtleneck is worn, whether it is with a suit, blazer, or coat, it always adds a touch of elegance to the attire. There is no doubt that turtlenecks are timeless in the fashion world because of their simplicity, elegance, and flexibility. There are styles that fit and look fabulous on everyone, from slim-necked and traditional to chunky and oversized. A turtleneck can be a terrific addition to your wardrobe. With those girl-next-door looks, Brooke Shields proves once again why she was America's number one sweetheart in the 1980s. We saw that kind of street style during last fashion week, which layered a checked jacket over a shirt and turtleneck.

2. Bodysuits

The '80s Madonna look is bang on trend right now, and the underwear and bodysuit too. Using bodysuits you can build the perfect look since they can be worn in so many ways. Anywhere you go, whatever your style or whatever your mood: there's a bodysuit for every occasion and every situation. Although the foundational piece has become increasingly popular lately, it isn't just a passing trend. From brunches on the fly to black-tie affairs, its comfort, flattering appearance, and adaptability make it the perfect choice for all occasions. If you decide to wear pearls with them, you can just pair yours with high-waisted jeans for a night out.

From 2022 through 2024, bodysuits will be stocked in regular stores as new generations discover the comfort and versatility of these once-maligned leotards. The fitted silhouette of bodysuits will be paired with more 70s inspired outfits in 2022, from flared jeans to high-waisted corduroy trousers, creating a sleek, effortless look that's comfortable and fashionable.

3. Oversized Blazer

Blazers make for a great addition to any wardrobe, and they are one of the smartest investments you can make. Blazers have made themselves an important wardrobe essential over the years, but they have more recently been making their way into casual wear on an entirely new level. Whatever you're looking for, the high street has it all, whether you're looking for chic neutrals, checks, classic black or a pop of colour. This versatile piece goes well with a variety of bottoms - it's so easy to change up this piece by switching it up and wearing it with shorts, a dress, or even a skirt instead of pants.

4. Structured Shoulders/Shoulder pads

So, basically, we're calling these "structured shoulders" just so we don't freak you out. Still, we've seen this style gain popularity over the years. Various pieces of clothing can be worn with shoulder pads, from blazers to dresses, to add more style to your appearance. It was a style that gave people the confidence and profile to be taken seriously anywhere they went. Through the use of wide shoulder pads and traditional patterns, power dressing aimed to place women on an equal footing with their colleagues by putting on outfits that suggested authority and power.

5. See-through layers 

Currently, there are many sheer dresses on the spring runways-like those made famous by the Jenner/Kardashian clan. So who is the original designer of this style? The legendary Kim Basinger.

An elegant sheer dress lends itself to many layers. The dress itself can be brought to life with the help of a turtleneck or long-sleeved bodysuit underneath if your jam is a tank style. An oversized boxy blazer or faux fur hat would make a great stylish topper when you're running out of the door.

6. Corset Belts

Whether it's a thin belt that finishes an outfit, or a cincher that enhances it, belts can make an impact on the outfits you love. Like any cult accessory, designer brands possess a number of benefits, from timelessness to outstanding quality. Although Kim Kardashian West has been a major contributor to the trend returning, Cyndi Lauper is most likely the one who started it. The current corset collection is more Euphoria than Bridgerton: bright colours and metallic finishes, paired with mini skirts, low-slung pants, and cargo pants, or as a matching set.

7. Checked Outerwear

Despite the overwhelming number of amazing outfits we could have included from Princess Diana, we decided to feature this "country casual" look. Diana's jacket and skirt feature a heritage check pattern, a classic combination. There has been a comeback for the Harrington-style jacket in hipster circles, but plaid coats are also very popular. 

8. Naked/Sequin Dress

It's the year when sequins will return to the spotlight. Sequins have never really gone away and have always been a party staple. The use of sequins in the 1980s was largely reserved for situations that required a bit of extra glamour. In 2022, expect to see a lot of casual pieces reimagined with sequins. You can add extra colour and excitement to your everyday wardrobe by pairing a sparkly top or skirt with more muted and relaxed pieces. There is no doubt in our minds that Cher is the ultimate style queen as this was her before everyone else did the naked dress at the Met Gala (or any other award show). In comparison with its extreme, overtly sexy predecessor, the new naked dress is more refined and romantic, and it'll only take a short while until this version becomes a red carpet staple.

We can be thankful to the 1980s for the superb fashion trends returning in the year 2022. An era filled with over-the-top silhouettes, permed hair, and saturated colours, the 1980s were possibly the boldest decade in fashion history. There is no doubt that the 1980s were one of the most controversial (and daring) decades. It seems like everything was big in the 80s, including oversized blazers and shoulder pads, as well as ruffles and doorknocker earrings and let's not even start on the 80s beauty trends. There's no doubt that in addition to mom jeans and exaggerated flares, skirt outfits, printed denim, and black dress pants, '80s fashion is making a comeback. It's only natural that we're in high anticipation as we wait for throwback threads to fully come back.

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