The 1980s was a decade that left an indelible mark on the fashion world, particularly when it came to men’s fashion. It was a time when bold colours, daring patterns, and eclectic styles reigned supreme. From the oversized blazers to the tight-fitting jeans, the 80s fashion for men was a true reflection of the era’s vibrant and unapologetic spirit.
The Power Suit: A Symbol of Status and Confidence
No discussion of 80s men’s fashion would be complete without mentioning the iconic power suit. These suits were the epitome of success and confidence, often featuring broad shoulders, oversized lapels, and a tapered waist. The fabrics ranged from bold pinstripes to vibrant solids, making a statement wherever they were worn.
As Gordon Gekko famously said in the movie “Wall Street”:
“The most valuable commodity I know of is information.”
And in the 80s, the power suit was the ultimate information – it conveyed a sense of authority, ambition, and a willingness to take risks.
Popular Power Suit Brands of the 80s
Some of the most popular and influential power suit brands of the 80s included:
- Giorgio Armani: Known for their impeccable tailoring and sleek Italian designs, Armani’s power suits were a favourite among Wall Street executives and corporate powerhouses.
- Ralph Lauren: With their classic American style and attention to detail, Ralph Lauren’s power suits were a staple in many men’s wardrobes.
- Hugo Boss: The German brand’s power suits were renowned for their quality construction and modern silhouettes, making them a go-to choice for fashion-forward businessmen.
Pro Tip: To recreate the iconic 80s power suit look, opt for a double-breasted jacket with broad shoulders and pair it with high-waisted trousers. Accessorize with a bold tie and a statement watch for added flair.
The Rise of Casual Chic
While the power suit dominated the boardrooms, the 80s also saw the rise of a more casual, yet equally iconic, style. From acid-washed jeans to graphic t-shirts, men embraced a laid-back aesthetic that still managed to turn heads.
One of the most iconic casual looks of the era was the humble Hawaiian shirt. These vibrant, patterned shirts became a staple in every man’s wardrobe, adding a touch of tropical flair to even the most mundane of outfits.
As fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger once said:
“Fashion is a way of life, not just something you put on.”
And in the 80s, men truly embraced fashion as a way of life, blurring the lines between formal and casual wear with effortless style.
Casual Chic Essentials
To channel the casual chic vibe of the 80s, here are some essential pieces to consider:
- Acid-washed Jeans: Levi’s and Wrangler were two of the most popular brands for distressed and faded denim.
- Graphic T-shirts: Look for bold prints, logos, and retro designs from brands like Hanes and Fruit of the Loom.
- Hawaiian Shirts: Brands like Tommy Bahama and Reyn Spooner were known for their vibrant and colourful Hawaiian shirt designs.
Pro Tip: Pair your acid-washed jeans with a graphic tee and a lightweight Hawaiian shirt for a casual yet stylish 80s look. Finish with a pair of classic white sneakers or loafers.
Accessorizing with Flair
No 80s men’s fashion ensemble was complete without the right accessories. From oversized belts and chunky jewellery to statement-making sunglasses, the decade was all about embracing excess and individuality.
One accessory that truly epitomized the 80s was the Members Only jacket. This iconic piece, with its signature logo and epaulettes, became a symbol of cool and a must-have for every fashion-forward man.
As fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld once said:
“Accessorizing is the key to personal style.”
And in the 80s, men took this advice to heart, using accessories to add a unique flair to their outfits and express their individuality.
Statement Accessories of the 80s
Here are some of the most iconic and statement-making accessories from the 80s:
- Oversized Belts: Look for bold, chunky belts with statement buckles from brands like Gucci and Versace.
- Chunky Jewelry: Gold chains, thick rings, and bold bracelets were all the rage, with brands like Cartier and Tiffany & Co. leading the way.
- Statement Sunglasses: Oversized and boldly shaped sunglasses from brands like Ray-Ban and Oakley were a must-have accessory.
- Members Only Jackets: The iconic Members Only jacket with its signature logo and epaulettes was a symbol of cool in the 80s.
Pro Tip: When accessorizing your 80s look, don’t be afraid to go bold and embrace excess. Layer on chunky jewellery, pair an oversized belt with a statement buckle and top it off with a pair of eye-catching sunglasses.
Music and Pop Culture Influences
The 80s was a decade heavily influenced by music and pop culture, and this was reflected in the fashion choices of the time. From the glam rock-inspired looks of bands like Duran Duran to the streetwear influenced by hip-hop culture, men’s fashion drew inspiration from a variety of sources.
One of the most iconic looks of the era was the “Miami Vice” style, popularized by the hit TV show of the same name. This look featured pastel-coloured suits, rolled-up sleeves, and loafers without socks, creating a cool and effortless aesthetic that epitomized the decade’s vibe.
As musician David Bowie once said:
“Fashion is a way of expressing yourself and letting the world know who you are.”
And in the 80s, men used fashion as a way to express their love for music, pop culture, and the zeitgeist of the era.
Music and Pop Culture-Inspired Looks
Here are some iconic looks inspired by the music and pop culture of the 80s:
- Glam Rock: Emulate the bold and flamboyant style of bands like Duran Duran with metallic fabrics, statement jackets, and bold makeup.
- Hip-Hop Streetwear: Take cues from the early hip-hop scene with oversized hoodies, baggy jeans, and statement sneakers like Air Force 1s.
- “Miami Vice” Style: Channel the cool and effortless vibe of the hit TV show with pastel-coloured suits, rolled-up sleeves, and loafers without socks.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to mix and match elements from different music and pop culture influences to create a unique and personalized 80s look. Experiment with bold colours, patterns, and textures to showcase your individuality.
Hair and Grooming: Bigger was Better
No discussion of 80s men’s fashion would be complete without mentioning the iconic hairstyles and grooming trends of the decade. From the feathered mullet to the perfectly coiffed quiff, men embraced big hair and bold styles.
One of the most memorable grooming trends of the era was the use of heavily gelled and sculpted hairstyles. These looks required a significant amount of hairspray and styling products, but they were a staple among fashion-conscious men of the time.
As fashion designer Vivienne Westwood once said:
“Fashion is a form of ugliness so intolerable that we have to alter it every six months.”
And in the 80s, men embraced this philosophy, constantly reinventing their hair and grooming styles to stay ahead of the curve.
Iconic 80s Hairstyles and Grooming Products
Here are some of the most iconic hairstyles and grooming products of the 80s:
- Feathered Mullet: This business-in-the-front, party-in-the-back hairstyle was a staple among rockers and rebels alike.
- Heavily Gelled Hair: Brands like Paul Mitchell and American Crew were go-to products for achieving the heavily gelled and sculpted hairstyles of the era.
- Quiff: A voluminous and sleek hairstyle that required a generous amount of hairspray and pomade to achieve its signature height and hold.
- Sideburns: Bold and statement-making sideburns were a popular grooming trend, with celebrities like Michael Douglas and Tom Selleck leading the way.
- Facial Hair: From the well-groomed moustache to the rugged beard, facial hair was a key component of many 80s grooming looks.
Pro Tip: To recreate iconic 80s hairstyles like the feathered mullet or the quiff, invest in high-quality hairspray, pomade, and styling products. Don’t be afraid to use a generous amount of product to achieve the desired volume and hold.
The Enduring Legacy of 80s Men’s Fashion
While the 80s may have come and gone, its impact on men’s fashion is undeniable. Many of the trends and styles that emerged during that decade have since been revived and reinterpreted, proving their timeless appeal.
From the revival of oversized blazers and baggy jeans to the resurgence of statement accessories, the 80s fashion for men continues to inspire and influence modern styles. Fashion is cyclical, and the bold and daring aesthetic of the 80s will likely continue to resurface and captivate new generations of fashion enthusiasts.
As fashion designer Tom Ford once said:
“Fashion is about taking risks and being willing to fail.”
And in the 80s, men truly embraced this philosophy, pushing boundaries and experimenting with styles that were both daring and unapologetic.
80s Fashion Revivals and Modern Interpretations
Here are some examples of how 80s fashion trends have been revived and reinterpreted in modern times:
- Oversized Blazers: Contemporary designers like Balenciaga and Vetements have embraced the oversized, boxy silhouette of 80s power suits, giving them a fresh and modern twist.
- Dad Sneakers: The chunky and bold sneaker styles of the 80s, such as the Air Monarch and Air Max, have made a major comeback in recent years, becoming a street style staple.
- Neon and Bold Colors: The vibrant and unapologetic colour palette of the 80s has been reimagined in modern collections, with brands like Prada and Gucci incorporating neon hues and bold shades into their designs.
- Graphic Prints: The bold and playful graphic prints of the 80s have been revived, with contemporary brands like Kenzo and Stüssy putting their own spin on retro designs.
Pro Tip: To incorporate 80s fashion into your modern wardrobe, start by investing in a few key pieces, such as an oversized blazer, a pair of dad sneakers, or a graphic-printed t-shirt. Mix and match these items with more contemporary pieces to create a fresh and unique look that pays homage to the decade’s bold and daring style.
Conclusion
The 80s fashion for men was a true celebration of individuality, self-expression, and fearlessness. From the power suits that dominated the boardrooms to the casual chic that ruled the streets, the decade was a time when men embraced fashion as a form of self-expression and a way to make a statement.
While some may look back on the 80s with a sense of nostalgia or amusement, there is no denying the lasting impact and influence that this era has had on the fashion world. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan of 80s style or simply appreciate its boldness and creativity, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate the iconic fashion choices of this unforgettable decade.
By incorporating elements of 80s fashion into your modern wardrobe, you can pay homage to this era while also embracing your own unique sense of style. Whether it’s a statement accessory, a bold print, or a daring silhouette, the 80s fashion for men offers endless inspiration for those who dare to stand out and embrace their individuality.