The 1980s was a decade defined by bold fashion choices, from neon colors to oversized silhouettes and leather jackets. While the era’s style is iconic, it can sometimes be tricky to wear 80s clothes today without feeling like you’re in a costume. The key to rocking these retro pieces is finding a balance between embracing the boldness of the era and modernizing it for today’s fashion sensibilities. In this article, we’ll explore how to wear 80s clothes without looking like you’re dressing up for a theme party.
1. Balance Bold Pieces with Modern Staples
One of the easiest ways to wear 80s clothes without going overboard is to pair vintage-inspired pieces with modern, minimalistic items. This allows you to introduce elements of 80s fashion without looking like you’re trying too hard to replicate the past.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Oversized Blazers: Pair a classic 80s oversized blazer with skinny jeans or a sleek, fitted top to balance out the volume. This allows the bold structure of the blazer to shine without overwhelming your silhouette.
- Neon Accents: Instead of going head-to-toe neon, incorporate small pops of color through accessories like a neon belt, bag, or shoes. This way, you get the bright 80s vibe without the full-on flashy look.
- High-Waisted Jeans: Wear high-waisted jeans with a simple, tucked-in tee or blouse for a modern take on an 80s staple. The high waist gives a nod to the 80s without looking dated.
2. Mix 80s Trends with Contemporary Silhouettes
The 80s were all about experimenting with shapes, but modern fashion tends to lean toward more streamlined, flattering fits. Instead of committing to full 80s silhouettes, blend retro trends with contemporary styles to keep your look fresh and relevant.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Power Suits: Pair an 80s-inspired power suit with a more contemporary top, such as a fitted turtleneck or a modern blouse. This juxtaposition keeps the look professional and polished, rather than theatrical.
- Mini Skirts: Wear an 80s-style mini skirt but pair it with a modern top, like a simple button-down shirt or cropped sweater. This makes the outfit wearable for a variety of occasions.
- Mom Jeans: Combine the wide-leg, high-waisted mom jeans with a tailored jacket or a fitted top to keep the overall look modern and chic.
3. Choose Subtle 80s Prints and Fabrics
While bold patterns and shiny fabrics were huge in the 80s, it’s best to choose more subtle iterations of these elements to avoid looking too costume-like.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Geometric Prints: Opt for geometric patterns in neutral or muted colors for a more modern approach. You can find these prints on blouses, skirts, or accessories that give you that retro feel without looking like you’re dressing up.
- Leather Jackets: A classic leather jacket is an 80s staple, but today’s designs are more refined and streamlined. Look for a jacket with minimal hardware and clean lines that make it feel like a contemporary statement piece rather than a costume.
- Plaid Patterns: Plaid was a key print in the 80s, but today, you can modernize it with a plaid shirt paired with fitted trousers or a plaid skirt with a minimalist top. Avoid overly large checkered patterns for a more sophisticated look.
4. Incorporate 80s Accessories Without Overdoing It
Accessories can make or break a look, and the 80s were all about making bold choices in this department. However, overloading your outfit with too many vintage-inspired accessories can quickly tip the balance into costume territory. Instead, pick one or two key accessories and keep the rest of your outfit simple.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Statement Earrings: Bold, geometric earrings were all the rage in the 80s. Instead of wearing a full set of chunky accessories, opt for one statement piece, like oversized earrings or a chunky bracelet.
- Scrunchies: While scrunchies are a fun 80s accessory, wearing one on your wrist can add a cute retro touch without making you look like you’re heading to a dance party. Keep your hair simple and let the scrunchie be the highlight.
- Chunky Belts: A wide belt can add definition to your waist and elevate an outfit. Pair it with a flowy dress or oversized shirt for an easy way to channel 80s fashion without going overboard.
5. Go for a Modern 80s-Inspired Makeup Look
Makeup was a big part of 80s fashion, with bold colors and heavy emphasis on eyes and lips. While you can still embrace some of these features, it’s important to avoid looking too theatrical by toning it down for a more polished, everyday appearance.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Bright Lips: Instead of opting for the bold neon lips that were common in the 80s, go for a more subtle bright lip in shades like coral or a modern red. This adds a pop of color without feeling too overdone.
- Bold Eyes: If you want to embrace the dramatic eye makeup from the 80s, opt for a more subtle take. Try winged eyeliner or a touch of colorful eyeshadow in muted tones. Avoid using too many colors on the eyelids for a more sophisticated look.
- Blush and Contour: While 80s makeup often featured heavy blush, today’s makeup looks are more sculpted. Go for a subtle flush of color and light contouring for a modernized version of the bold 80s cheeks.
6. Keep the Hair Modern and Sleek
The 80s were all about big hair—whether it was teased, permed, or slicked back with gel. While this is fun in its own right, it’s important to update your hair to keep it from looking too retro.
How to Achieve the Look:
- Big Waves: Instead of the traditional voluminous 80s curls, try big, soft waves for a more relaxed, modern look. Use a curling iron or a flat iron to create texture and volume without going overboard.
- Sleek Ponytail: The 80s introduced the iconic high ponytail, and you can modernize it by keeping the hair sleek and smooth. Use a light gel or hairspray to keep everything in place, and add a subtle accessory, like a ribbon, to complete the look.
- Short and Chic: If you prefer shorter hair, try a modern, sleek bob or pixie cut with a bit of volume on top for a fresh take on 80s style.
Conclusion
Wearing 80s clothes without looking like you’re in a costume is all about subtlety and balance. By mixing retro-inspired pieces with modern essentials, embracing updated versions of bold prints and fabrics, and styling your accessories and makeup with restraint, you can achieve a look that’s both nostalgic and fashionable. With these tips, you can enjoy the fun of 80s fashion while keeping it chic and wearable for today. Whether you’re incorporating a power suit, a neon accessory, or an oversized blazer, your 80s-inspired outfit can feel fresh, relevant, and completely your own.
