Growing up in the early ’70s, my adolescent years unfolded in the vibrant and sometimes cringe-worthy decade of the 1980s. Though those years were filled with teenage angst, they were also bursting with unforgettable pop culture. I vividly recall the launch of MTV in August 1981, where music videos were the highlight of my day, showcasing every trend from the side ponytail to jelly shoes and parachute pants.
While many ’80s fashion trends have faded into oblivion, some I wouldn’t mind seeing make a comeback. Here’s a look at the hits and misses that defined the era for me:
- Yes to Long Hair on Men
While I appreciate my partner’s neat, short hairstyle, I can’t help but miss the flowing locks of icons like David Lee Roth and Axl Rose. There was just something magnetic about a man with long hair. - No to Rat Tails and Mullets
I may have rocked a mullet—dubbed a “bi-level” cut back then—mimicking the look from a certain music video. However, today, spotting a mullet makes me want to reach for the scissors. - Yes to Pegged Pants
Before heading to school, I made sure to roll my jeans just right to add that cool factor. The sudden abandonment of pegged pants left a void in my wardrobe that I still feel. - No to Tracksuits
These were never flattering, even in the ’80s. Tracksuits seemed to be a mom staple, but I’ll take yoga pants over them any day! - Yes to Bomber Jackets
There’s something undeniably cool about bomber jackets. I always yearned for one, and that desire still lingers today. - No to Shoulder Pads
The oversized shoulder pads were meant to empower women but turned into a fashion faux pas. I tried to embrace them for a while, but soon found myself removing them from all my clothes. Please, let’s leave that trend in the past! - Yes to Spiral Perms
Before college, I had waves, but they were mere whispers compared to the full-bodied curls of a spiral perm. Those bouncy curls were iconic, and I wouldn’t mind their resurgence. - No to Side Ponytails
Side ponytails should remain a childhood memory. They tend to look silly on adults; I learned that the hard way when my daughter suggested I sport one. - Yes to Penny Loafers
These timeless shoes were my go-to, and they should never go out of style. A classic that pairs well with almost anything! - No to Puffy Shirts
Puffy, frilly shirts were all the rage, but they really only suited rock stars. I’m grateful this trend has vanished, and I hope it stays gone for good.
These are just a few of the unforgettable trends from the ’80s that evoke nostalgia. Which styles did you detest? Are there any you wish would return?
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In summary, the ’80s were a mixed bag of fashion choices. From the long hair and pegged pants that I adored to the puffy shirts and tracksuits I could do without, it’s clear that some trends are better left in the past.
Keyphrase: 1980s fashion trends
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