Top Teenager 80s Fashion Trends To Know About

Table of Content

• The Popularity of 80s Teenage Fashion
• Best ‘80s Teenage Fashion Styles
• FAQs
• Final Thoughts

Some of us remember the ‘80s as a bright time of our childhood, and many of us remember this time by our parents’ stories, we remember this bright pop culture – synth-wave, pop, etc. We remember Michael Jackson and other artists that we absolutely love even today. The films, TV shows, and the overall atmosphere were just amazing, that’s why people might feel some kind of nostalgia when it comes to these times.

But the main topic of our today’s article is 80s teenage fashion. These crazy looks and outfits of our idols are stuck in the minds of millions of people. And this is something we continue wearing nowadays due to the awesome look of outfits and the overall atmosphere that is associated with them.

Today we will learn about the history of ‘80s fashion and the main reasons why the exact outfits that we are used to have become so popular. We will also discuss the best styles of it and their features.

If you’re not familiar with other popular decades and their styles, I’d recommend checking out the ‘90s fashion trends article to learn more about the fashion of the past.

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Now, let’s move to the history of ‘80s teenage fashion and pop culture's influence on the style of these times.

The Popularity of 80s Teenage Fashion

The ‘80s were a great time when everything changed very fast. Music, films, TV shows as well as fashion were affected by economic growth and technological advancements, which led to consumerism, that’s where people started seeking out good-looking, unique styles that will make them stand out.

Youth Culture was very popular in the ‘80s, not to mention that it played a significant role in the fashion of those times. Teens became way more independent and had some income to spend on everything they want. That’s why fashion became very popular among them, they could afford to buy new clothing and live their best life. Fashion became a way of self-expression, and it is still a way to express ourselves today.

I also should mention music and other forms of popular art. Actors, musicians, and other celebrities dictated main fashion trends since they were instances to take inspiration from. Many people remember Michael Jackson, Bon Jovi, Madonna, Freddy Mercury, and many other artists who were blowing the scene in that period of time. And it’s okay when young people want to feel like their idols, we all were there.

Finally, let’s move to the most iconic style of this period!

Best ‘80s Teenage Fashion Styles

1. Neon Colors

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What does pop up in your mind first when you think of the ‘80s? I think neon is the first answer that most people will say. From hot pink to electric blue were everywhere. We remember this decade by neon clothing, such as leggings, oversized sweatshirts, and scrunchies.

People loved it this is why it became very popular. Today we wouldn’t probably wear this type of clothing, because today we embrace minimalism more than bright toxic colors, but if you like it, wear this style, it will make you stand out!

2. Leg Warmers

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Today leg warmers are very popular when it comes to wearing cute styles, and more Asian styles.

But in the ‘80s they were very popular because of dance movies like “Flashdance”. They became essential in every ‘80s teenager’s wardrobe. They were worn over leggings or jeans and added an extra layer and warmth to any outfit.

3. Oversized Tops

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Even though oversized clothing became even more popular in the ‘90s and during the recent pandemic, they were a good ‘80s teenage fashion style. People usually matched them with leggings or tight jeans. These tops made a comfortable and casual look.

With this look, teenagers often broke out to parties and were going out to the center, because the look was really simple and good-looking.

4. Denim Jackets

Denim jackets actually became even more popular in the ‘90s as well. But denim jackets were a great option to wear in the ‘80s, this means that many teenagers did it and actually looked very stylish, expressing their individuality well.

Today denim jackets are popular, considering that streetwear style is popular on social media, such as TikTok, YouTube, etc. I have a huge article dedicated to this style, so check it out if you’re interested!

You can layer them with everything you want. Matching it with jeans, or a graphic tee is a great opportunity to stand out at every party.

5. High-Waisted Jeans

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High-waisted jeans were a staple in every teenager's wardrobe in the '80s. And they’re very popular now. In my summer fashion guide, for example, I tell more about how to style them, so check it out as well!

But you can wear them with a tucked-in top or paired with a crop top, these jeans create a pleasing silhouette and add some dynamic to your style.

6. Shoulder Pads

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What do you think made the looks of our favorite ‘80s idols look astounding? You will definitely say these big shoulders, are achieved by wearing shoulder pads. They can easily add structure and drama to jackets, blouses, and especially dresses.

Women wanted to look more masculine, and this was the reason for their popularity.

7. Mini Skirts

Another cute style element that is popular now among girls. But they were a very popular ‘80s teenage fashion style, that was just looking playful and really cute. And do you remember we discussed leg warmers? They were usually a great addition to mini skirts. The skirts were often worn with leggings as well and added some versatility to one’s wardrobe.

Today you can see many people wearing them because it still looks awesome and interesting.

8. Parachute Pants

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Today they’re extremely popular. Especially they’re good for sporty styles and even working out. They have a baggy, and massive look and were made from lightweight materials. Even today people are usually wearing them, especially girls, adding short tops to them. They are a great option for streetwear, so consider wearing this kind of clothing

In the ‘80s though, they were especially popular among breakdancers that was gaining popularity very fast

9. Athletic Wear

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The ‘80s became a birthtime for the most iconic sports brands, like Nike, Adidas, Reebok, etc. Those were times when people, and teenagers especially became very interested in sports and other activities.

Tracksuits, windbreakers, and sneakers were widely known by teenagers of those times because of the simplicity and comfort they provided.

10. Layering

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Layering became a key aspect of 80s teenage fashion and allowed to mix textures and layer different clothing over other items, such as T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, etc.

This is the trend that is popular nowadays in different fashion trends out there. With the rise of TikTok, this trend became even more basic for today’s fashion.

We finally covered all of the best 80s teenage fashion styles, and I’d say that wearing most of them nowadays will be a great decision, as our today’s fashion didn’t go far away from those times.

Now I would love to move to frequently asked questions in order to answer them.

FAQs

Q: Why was '80s fashion so colorful and bold?

Well, the '80s were a time of rapid change and experimentation, then was a huge request on expressing yourself, this is why people wanted to show off their looks to make others envy them or just to attract their attention of them.

Just think of it, and you’re going to realize that bold colors, patterns, and styles were popular as they allowed individuals to stand out and make a statement, as they do it today in general.

Q: What role did music play in '80s teenage fashion?

Music is the most influential type of art. the art that easily makes you feel sad, happy or just excited. People loved the music, hence loved the artists who made it. The artists had to show themselves in public, and this affected their style, which had to be just perfect. This is still the reason why some fashion styles become popular.

Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Prince introduced bold, daring looks that inspired fans to refine their style.

Q: How did movies and TV shows influence '80s fashion trends?

Movies and TV shows, such as "The Breakfast Club," "Pretty in Pink," and "Miami Vice," played a significant role in shaping '80s fashion trends.

The actors usually had to be even more stylists then artists, and this is why a huge part of any film’s budget was directed to finding the best clothing and stylists. This is still happening now, so there’s nothing weird about it.

Q: Are '80s fashion trends still popular today?

Yes and no. Most of them are popular today, and some of them slightly changed. A little part of them has gone, unfortunately, as fashion is moving forward and developing rapidly.

Q: What distinguishes '80s teenage fashion from fashion in other decades?

'80s teenage fashion was mainly characterized by its bold colors, eclectic styles, and emphasis on self-expression.

The decade was heavily influenced by pop culture, with music icons, movies, and TV shows all contributing to the distinctive fashion trends of the time.

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Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! Writing an article on this topic was a little dream of mine because it’s always interesting to look at how fashion developed and what styles either changed or are still the same.

Many of today’s fashion trends are inspired by ’80s culture and fashion, this is why we can’t ignore this period of time and its significant role in our today’s culture. I’m excited that you read this article to the end, and hopefully, you liked it. Visit our website for more entertaining and useful content related to fashion, skincare, and self-improvement in general!