The 80s Fashion: Excess, Leather, and Trends Ultimate Guide

The 1980's was a time for excess, and no apologies. In retrospect, it was a decade of over-the-top fashion, with MTV's debut, global superstars, and blockbuster action films coming to the fore. When you peek into old photo albums or watch old teen movies and ask yourself, "what did people dress like in the 80's?," the answer is quite interesting and unique - rebellious, glamorous, and athletic. The decade was about standing out, it was about not being subtle. Eighties clothing trends were quite expressive and diverse, ranging from the use of neon colors and spandex to the exaggerated and sharp cut of the corporate power suit.

If you're hoping to create a true 80s vibe for your party, or if you just want to add some vintage favorites to your everyday outfit, knowing what was the fashion in the 80s means knowing about some of the key items that made the 80s fashion. So, let's get into the ultimate breakdown of 80s fashion and see the ins and outs of streetwear essentials to the iconic leather outerwear that's still as relevant today. 

Big Question: What Did People Wear in the 1980s?

If you are inquiring what people wore in the 1980s, you can't just answer one thing. There were several different and extremely stylized subcultures in the fashion world. The 80s fashion was more influenced by music, television and street culture, and the popular 80s fashion was not gradually rolling down from high fashion runways as in the past.

In general, outfits worn in the 80s could be categorized into a number of broad styles. The first style was the punk/rock-inspired look, complete with black leather, metal studs, band t-shirts, and all sorts of worn down jeans. Next came the athletic and fitness mania which brought spandex, bright colored leg warmers, matching tracksuits and chunky sneakers out of the gym and onto the streets. Last but not least, there was the preppy and corporate style of wearing pastel colored polo shirts with popped collars and sweaters unfastened around the shoulders and aggressively buttoned blazers.

The big idea of any subculture of clothes worn in the 80s was volume – the bigger the better. Bigger meant better. It was the same with accessories, shoulder pads and hair. What style was it that people wore back in the 80s to impress? They were able to put all these things into a single, attention-grabbing outfit. 

80s Women's Fashion: Power Suits, Leather Edge, and Glamour

The 80s women's fashion was revolutionary in that it blurred the lines between traditionally male and female silhouettes, especially 80’s look for ladies and yet executed a fierce feminine touch.

So, what clothes did women wear in the 80's to draw attention? The concept of "power dressing" came into being as women became more involved in corporate settings. The defining characteristics of the quintessential power suit were the heavy shoulder pads that would give the wearer a strong, broad-shouldered and assertive silhouette, and the tapered waist that would keep the hourglass shape intact.

However, outside of the office, the ideal 1980's outfit for ladies was much more rebellious. The leather outerwear was a life-changer. It was perfect for both formal and informal occasions. A leather motorcycle jacket was an important piece of clothing, which would outline the waist and dress an outfit with a style. This rugged style was popularized by rock stars and pop stars, many of whom would wear a biker jacket with a lace-trimmed dress or a simple tee shirt for an extra punch.

The Ravenna Black Genuine Leather Biker Motorcycle Jacket from ZOQ Leather strikes the ideal balance of rebellious style and refined design today and will remain a timeless classic for years to come. Drap over a lace top, and you've got the true essence of the decade. If you're looking for a softer, more luxuriously-inspired version of the trend, ZOQ Leather's Women's High Glamor Stylish Lambskin Leather Biker Jacket offers the sleek, form-fitting silhouette that ruled late-80s nightlife. 

Streetwear and Casual Styles: 80s Girls Outfits

For casual wear, what clothes did women wear in the 80s for a casual outing? Denim reigns supreme over 80s women fashion. Denim in the 80s was a high waist game as opposed to the low 80s game of the 00s. Acid wash and stone wash jeans became the everyday outfit. These finishes represented a natural and aged appearance with a heavy texture, which became a hallmark of the period. The wide statement belts were made of metallic or oversized buckles, and were typically worn by women.

Tops, too, had a say in their own expression. Graphic tees started to be a big means of expressing personal identity. 1980’s t-shirts had large letters, strong color schemes and oversized graphics. Band shirts were no longer just souvenirs from concerts, but became a staple of casual Friday attire, frequently worn under bulky denim jackets or tailored blazers.

Mini skirts and bodycon dresses were part of the casual 80s girls outfits as well. A denim, leather or stretchy spandex mini skirt was necessary as it provided freedom and confidence. Often worn by women with opaque tights or bright leggings to compensate for the short hem. Leopard prints were extremely popular for dresses and blouses for dresses, making them look wild and retro for any wardrobe. Of course, when talking about casual 80's wear, there is no mention of "overalls in the 80's" without it. Overalls were donned by most men and women, and were frequently worn with one strap opened up and draped over a bright colored t-shirt, creating a casual and fun weekend appearance.

As far as color was concerned everything was possible. There was no holding women back from wearing all shades of colour, dark or bright. Two or more strong hues in one garment was the latest craze, creating brightly brilliant attire. 

Mid-Decade Shift: 1985 Fashion, and What Did Adults Wear in the 80s?

What did adults wear in the 80s? The decade was in the middle, in 1985 fashion, there was a balance of casual and incredibly structured, status-denoting outerwear worn by everyday adults.

Adults typically wore a fit-and-finish denim, comfortable knitwear and high-quality jackets for the weekend uniform. Men were wearing oversized blazers with sleeves pushed up, pastel t-shirts under suits and heavily distressed denim jackets. The bomber jacket is a style that originated with military pilots, and was brought to the public's attention by the Hollywood air and flight action movies. They were originally designed for military use as flight jackets, but they have become a staple of street fashion, with a rugged and masculine design.

Outwear such as ZOQ Leather's Men's Vintage Style Leather Aviator Jacket or Men's Chestnut Leather Bomber Jacket with Sherpa Collar is the perfect way to bring this vintage fashion to the present era. With straight leg jeans and a plain white T-shirt, these jackets offer the wide shoulders and unmistakable design that was popular in the 1980's.

The "Members Only" jacket featured shoulder epaulets and snap neck closures as another characteristic element of an adult's outerwear. They came in all colors and wearing one was a discreet status and belonging gesture. In general, adult fashion was unable to leave behind its love for excess and instead opted for more refined, understated luxury. 

Complete the Look: Footwear & Accessories

Accessories were a crucial part of an 80s look and there were a few that would make any retro outfit complete.

The 1980s saw an explosion of "sneaker culture. Sneaker culture really took off in the 80's and quickly started being defined as the 1980s popular shoes. From track pants to jeans, there were high-top basketball shoes and chunky white aerobics shoes. Heavy leather combat boots were the footwear of choice for a more alternative, grunge-inspired aesthetic, as the bright colors of the time demanded a contrasting and grounded look.

Secondly, eyewear was crucial. Sunglasses 80s style consisted of oversized and unabashed frames. Classic wire-rimmed aviators and dark thick frames were the ultimate in cool and worn by any rock star, actor on the red carpet and even at night or indoors simply to make a statement.

Last but not least, don't forget leg warmers. Leg warmers were first worn by dancers to warm up their muscles and were a huge craze among the mainstream. They were paired with mini skirts, jeans and heels which added a funky sporting look to basic clothing. 

Taking the 80s into Today

You do not need a time machine to rock popular 80s fashion. The secret to wearing eighties clothing trends today without looking like you are wearing a literal costume is to pick one strong statement piece and build a modern, understated outfit around it.

An authentic leather jacket is the absolute easiest and most stylish way to channel the decade's energy. Whether you opt for a heavy-duty Men's Harley-Davidson Sheepskin Biker Jacket to capture that rebellious rock aesthetic, or a sleek Women's Elegant Black Leather Trench Coat from ZOQ Leather to emulate the era's dramatic glamour, you are investing in a piece of heritage fashion that outlasts any passing trend. Pair your premium leather with modern high-waisted denim and vintage-inspired 1980's t-shirts, and you will perfectly capture the timeless, fearless spirit of the 80s while remaining effortlessly stylish in the present day.

Time machines are not required to rock with the popularity of 80s fashion. The best way to wear any of the 1980s fashion trends for today without having to wear a literal costume, is to choose one bold piece and then create a contemporary and understated look around it.

Of course, the most effective and stylish means to channel the ‘80s energy is by wearing an authentic leather jacket. If you choose a Men's Harley-Davidson Sheepskin Biker Jacket to ensure you get the rebellious rock look, or a Women's Elegant Black Leather Trench Coat from ZOQ Leather to achieve the glamour of the time, you will be purchasing a piece of biker fashion history that will outlast any fad. For the ultimate 80s look, team your top leather with modern high-rise denim and 80s vintage t-shirts, and you'll get a look that perfectly embodies the 80s era, but in a contemporary style.