The 1980s was a decade known for its bold fashion choices, vibrant colors, and larger-than-life silhouettes. If you’re a plus-size woman who loves the 80s style, you’re in luck! The 80s offered a variety of flattering, fun, and bold clothing options that are just as wearable today as they were back then. Whether you’re channeling the glam of power suits or the casual coolness of denim, 80s clothes can be a great fit for your style. Here’s how to embrace the era with confidence and style.
Bold Silhouettes: Embrace the Power of Shape
One of the hallmarks of 80s fashion was oversized silhouettes. Power suits, voluminous skirts, and structured blazers were all the rage, and these styles are incredibly flattering for plus-size women. The key is to focus on balancing proportions and embracing structure.
Key Styles to Look For:
- Oversized Blazers: These can be paired with high-waisted pants or skirts to create a sharp, structured silhouette. A belted blazer will emphasize the waist while still providing that bold 80s look.
- Peplum Tops and Dresses: Peplum details were very popular in the 80s. This style flares out slightly at the waist, creating a flattering hourglass shape that works beautifully for plus-size figures.
- A-Line Skirts and Dresses: These styles are fantastic for creating a balanced silhouette. The A-line shape will add volume at the bottom while slimming the waist and hips.
How to Style:
Pair an oversized blazer with a fitted turtleneck and high-waisted jeans for a polished look. For a more casual vibe, try a peplum top with denim or an A-line dress paired with some bold, chunky heels.
Statement Sleeves: The Bigger, The Better
The 80s was all about dramatic, oversized sleeves. From puffed sleeves to shoulder pads, the volume added to tops and dresses helped create the iconic 80s silhouette. These statement sleeves can add height and balance to the figure, making them a perfect choice for plus-size women.
Key Styles to Look For:
- Puffy Sleeves: Whether on a blouse or a dress, puffy sleeves are one of the most defining features of 80s fashion. This silhouette works well for those who want to draw attention upward and elongate the body.
- Shoulder Pads: A nod to the power-dressing era, shoulder pads add structure and definition to the shoulders, making the waist appear smaller in comparison. Modern shoulder pads come in subtle designs, so don’t be afraid to try them for a more tailored look.
How to Style:
Go for a puffy-sleeve blouse tucked into high-waisted trousers or a pencil skirt. For evening wear, a structured dress with shoulder pads will give you that bold, fashion-forward look while remaining flattering to your curves.
Bright Colors and Bold Patterns: Don’t Be Afraid to Stand Out
The 80s were all about embracing bold colors and fun patterns. From neon greens and pinks to animal prints and geometric shapes, this era was far from subtle. Plus-size women can have a lot of fun with color and patterns, as these vibrant elements can add personality and confidence to any outfit.
Key Styles to Look For:
- Neon and Bright Colors: Bright neon shades like electric blue, fuchsia, and lime green were all the rage. These colors draw attention and can be flattering when paired with neutral pieces to create contrast.
- Bold Patterns: Think animal prints, polka dots, and geometric designs. Pair a bold patterned top with neutral bottoms to keep the look balanced.
- Color Blocking: This technique involves pairing different blocks of solid colors together for a striking look. It can be flattering for plus-size figures by emphasizing the natural shape of the body.
How to Style:
A neon pink blazer over a neutral white tee and black pants can create an eye-catching, balanced look. Alternatively, a bold printed blouse can be paired with dark-colored jeans to keep the focus on the pattern while elongating the body.
High-Waisted Bottoms: Flattering and Comfortable
High-waisted jeans, skirts, and trousers were a staple of 80s fashion and remain one of the most flattering styles for plus-size women. This style elongates the legs and cinches in the waist, helping to create an hourglass figure.
Key Styles to Look For:
- High-Waisted Trousers: A great option for creating a flattering shape, high-waisted trousers can be paired with tucked-in blouses or crop tops for an 80s-inspired look.
- High-Waisted Skirts: Whether it’s a pencil skirt or an A-line, high-waisted skirts are a timeless piece that complements plus-size figures by elongating the body.
- Mom Jeans: These loose, high-waisted jeans are both comfortable and stylish, offering a more relaxed 80s look.
How to Style:
Pair high-waisted trousers with a fitted crop top for a chic look. For a more relaxed vibe, team high-waisted mom jeans with an oversized sweater and sneakers.
Denim: A Timeless 80s Fabric
Denim was a central fabric in 80s fashion, and plus-size women can rock this classic material with ease. Whether in the form of jackets, jeans, or skirts, denim is versatile, flattering, and comfortable—perfect for achieving a retro 80s look.
Key Styles to Look For:
- Denim Jackets: An oversized denim jacket was a major fashion statement in the 80s. Look for jackets with bold detailing like acid-wash or patches.
- Acid-Wash Jeans: The acid-wash trend is making a major comeback, and it’s flattering for a wide range of body types. Choose high-waisted acid-wash jeans for an authentic 80s vibe.
- Denim Skirts: A-line or pencil denim skirts can be paired with bold tops for a fun and flattering outfit that screams 80s.
How to Style:
Layer an oversized acid-wash denim jacket over a fitted blouse and high-waisted pants for a cool, casual look. A denim skirt paired with a graphic tee or fitted blouse can also capture that true 80s spirit.
Footwear: Bold and Fun Shoes
Footwear was an important aspect of 80s fashion, and there are plenty of bold options that work for plus-size women today. From chunky heels to colorful sneakers, the right shoes can really bring your 80s-inspired outfit to life.
Key Styles to Look For:
- Chunky Heels: These were everywhere in the 80s and offer a great way to add height while remaining stable. Opt for bold colors or metallic finishes for an authentic 80s vibe.
- High-Top Sneakers: Perfect for a casual day look, high-top sneakers offer both comfort and style. They can be paired with everything from skirts to denim.
- Pointed Flats: For a more polished look, pointed-toe flats were popular in the 80s and provide a chic yet retro finish.
How to Style:
Pair chunky heels with a tailored blazer and trousers for an elegant look. Alternatively, sport a pair of high-top sneakers with high-waisted jeans and a graphic tee for a laid-back, casual look.
Conclusion
The 80s were a decade of bold, fun, and flattering fashion, and plus-size women can embrace this era with confidence. From oversized blazers to high-waisted jeans, the key to pulling off 80s style is choosing pieces that flatter your shape and allow you to express your personality. By mixing vibrant colors, dramatic silhouettes, and bold accessories, you can create a look that’s both retro and modern, while feeling comfortable and confident all day long. So, dig into the 80s and let the fun begin!
