The 1980s were a decade full of bold fashion statements, extravagant silhouettes, and vibrant colors. From oversized blazers to tight-fitting leggings, the 80s had a little something for everyone. However, with all the different styles and cuts, it can be challenging to figure out which 80s trends work best for your body type. The key to rocking 80s fashion is understanding your body shape and choosing clothes that flatter your natural features. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to choose the best 80s clothes for your body type, whether you’re curvy, petite, tall, or anywhere in between.
Understanding Your Body Type
Before diving into specific 80s trends, it’s important to understand your body shape. The most common body types include:
- Hourglass: Defined by a well-balanced bust and hip measurement with a narrower waist.
- Pear-Shaped: Wider hips and thighs with a narrower waist and smaller upper body.
- Apple-Shaped: Fuller upper body with a less defined waistline.
- Rectangle: A straight, balanced silhouette without much curve.
- Inverted Triangle: Broader shoulders with narrower hips and waist.
By knowing your body type, you can choose 80s clothes that enhance your natural shape, making you feel confident and stylish.
Best 80s Clothes for Hourglass Figures
If you have an hourglass body shape, you are lucky enough to be able to pull off many 80s trends. The goal for hourglass figures is to highlight the curves while maintaining balance in the overall silhouette.
Key Styles:
- Belted Waist Dresses: 80s dresses with belts or cinched waists are perfect for emphasizing your curves. A-line skirts with a defined waist can also highlight your shape without overwhelming your figure.
- Peplum Tops: A popular 80s trend, peplum tops flare out just above the hips, creating a balanced look that complements your hourglass shape. Look for tops with a structured fit for a polished, flattering effect.
- Tailored Suits: A sharp, tailored blazer with a nipped-in waist will accentuate your curves. The wide shoulder pads that were common in the 80s will also give you a defined, balanced look.
Styling Tip:
Pair your peplum top or belted dress with high-waisted pants or skirts to further emphasize the waist and elongate your legs.
Best 80s Clothes for Pear-Shaped Figures
For those with a pear-shaped body, the goal is to draw attention upward and create balance between the upper and lower body. The 80s had plenty of styles that helped achieve this, focusing on bold, statement-making pieces that accentuated the shoulders and drew the eye upward.
Key Styles:
- Bold Shoulder Pads: One of the most iconic features of 80s fashion, shoulder pads add structure and volume to the upper body, balancing out wider hips. Look for oversized blazers, jackets, or tops with shoulder pads for a flattering effect.
- Off-the-Shoulder Tops: Off-the-shoulder or boat-neck tops were popular in the 80s, helping to broaden the upper body and draw attention to the shoulders and collarbones.
- A-Line Skirts: These skirts, which flare out from the waist, are perfect for pear-shaped figures. A-line silhouettes will minimize the appearance of your hips and thighs while creating a more balanced shape.
Styling Tip:
Balance your look by pairing a bold shoulder-padded top or off-the-shoulder blouse with a high-waisted A-line skirt or slim-fitting pants. This draws attention to your upper body while flattering your lower half.
Best 80s Clothes for Apple-Shaped Figures
If you have an apple-shaped body, the goal is to create a balanced look by drawing attention away from the midsection and focusing on the legs, shoulders, and face. Many 80s trends are perfect for achieving this balanced look.
Key Styles:
- Empire Waist Dresses: Dresses with a high, empire waist that flows out from just under the bust will help conceal the midsection while creating a flattering silhouette. These were very popular in the 80s, and they emphasize the bust without clinging to the stomach area.
- V-Necklines: A deep V-neck creates a long, lean line and elongates the torso. Choose tops and dresses with a V-neck to draw attention upwards and away from the midsection.
- Straight-Leg Pants: High-waisted, straight-leg pants are flattering for apple-shaped bodies, as they create the illusion of a longer, leaner figure. Pair them with a fitted top or tucked-in blouse to define your waist without clinging to it.
Styling Tip:
Choose high-waisted, straight-leg jeans or pants to elongate the legs. Pair with a fitted, V-neck top to draw attention to your upper body and create a more defined silhouette.
Best 80s Clothes for Rectangle-Shaped Figures
For those with a rectangle body shape, the goal is to create curves and add definition to the waist. The 80s were full of bold fashion choices that help create dimension and add interest to a more straight or athletic frame.
Key Styles:
- Peplum and Ruffled Tops: Peplum tops or ruffled blouses add volume to the bust and hips, creating the illusion of curves. The flared look at the hips will also create a more defined waist.
- High-Waisted Bottoms: High-waisted pants, skirts, or shorts elongate the legs and define the waist. They can add the necessary shape to give the illusion of curves.
- Cropped Jackets: Cropped jackets were a popular 80s trend that creates structure and adds shape to a rectangle body. Pair them with high-waisted pants or skirts for a flattering, balanced look.
Styling Tip:
Pair peplum tops or ruffled blouses with high-waisted bottoms to create curves and add volume to the bust and hips. This helps define the waist and creates a more feminine silhouette.
Best 80s Clothes for Inverted Triangle Figures
For those with an inverted triangle body shape, the focus is on creating balance by softening the upper body and emphasizing the hips and lower body. The 80s had several trends that could help achieve this look.
Key Styles:
- Soft, Flowy Tops: Soft, flowy tops or blouses with minimal structure will help balance out broader shoulders. Avoid overly structured tops with large shoulder pads, as they can emphasize the upper body.
- Wide-Leg Pants or Skirts: Wide-leg pants or skirts help balance out the wider shoulders by adding volume to the lower half of your body. Look for pleated or A-line skirts to create a more balanced silhouette.
- Boot-Cut Jeans: These jeans are slightly flared from the knee down, drawing attention to the legs and creating a more balanced overall look. Pair them with a simple top for a sleek, flattering outfit.
Styling Tip:
Pair wide-leg pants or boot-cut jeans with a flowy top to add volume to the lower half of your body. This will help balance your silhouette and create an overall harmonious look.
Conclusion: Embrace 80s Fashion for Your Body Type
The 1980s was a decade of experimentation and bold choices, and the fashion trends from that time are as relevant today as ever. Whether you’re looking to enhance your curves, balance your proportions, or highlight your best features, there are 80s clothes for every body type. By understanding your shape and choosing clothing that flatters it, you can confidently rock the best of 80s fashion. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun with your look and embrace the power of self-expression that 80s fashion was all about!
