When I was just 10 years old, my dad dropped a major surprise on our family: we were relocating. Not only were we leaving our quiet suburban town in New Jersey, but we were also moving to the enchanting land of Texas. Having only read about the Lone Star State in my trusty Encyclopædia Britannica, I was excited about the adventure, particularly the chance to don some cowboy boots. Did kids my age wear spurs there? I wondered.
As we settled into our new Texas town a few weeks into my fifth-grade year, I quickly realized that owning cowboy boots wasn’t going to earn me any cool points among my classmates. A wave of anxiety washed over me as I faced a room full of girls flaunting the boldest ‘80s styles. My Laura Ashley dress felt like a glaring neon sign of my outsider status.
Navigating the social landscape in my new school was tough. The playful cruelty of 10-year-old girls made my transition an agonizing experience. My New Jersey wardrobe, filled with one-piece jumpers and tube socks, paled in comparison to the vibrant and outrageous outfits from stores I had never heard of. The ridicule directed at my Capezio shoes (which were the epitome of chic back home) often left me in tears, wishing for the comfort of familiarity.
Initially, my mother, a practical New Englander, didn’t quite grasp my distress. To her, clothing was merely functional—an outfit to avoid public nudity. Label names and trendy stores were foreign concepts. However, after witnessing a particularly harsh encounter with a mean girl, she recognized that my culture shock was overwhelming. A little retail therapy, she realized, might be more effective than a therapy session.
With enthusiasm bubbling inside me, I crafted a shopping list for our trip to the mall:
- Guess Jeans, Acid Wash Only
In the ‘80s, that iconic triangle logo on your right rear pocket signified social status. I felt like a rock star when I finally scored my first pair of Guess jeans. - A Liz Claiborne Handbag
Long before the rise of designer labels like Prada and Kate Spade, Liz Claiborne dominated the handbag scene. Her bags, adorned with that recognizable triangle logo, were perfect for stashing Love’s Baby Soft perfume and Lip Smackers, as well as Aqua Net and a brush to maintain our towering hairstyles. - Keds, The Real Ones With the Blue Label
My first pair of Keds was pristine white canvas with a blue rubber emblem on the heel. They were a must-have, especially to be worn with multiple pairs of slouch socks. I was heartbroken when one of the blue labels fell off—how could anyone know I sported the authentic version? - Benetton Sweater, in Any of the United Colors
Everyone adored the eclectic, oversized styles from this Italian brand. With its colorful sweaters and inclusive advertising, wearing Benetton made you feel part of a significant cultural moment. - Anything From The Limited
As I dragged my mom into The Limited, she rolled her eyes at the sleek black displays, while I was captivated by the crop tops and palazzo pants adorned with that iconic black label. The store exuded an aura of chic possibilities that I desperately wanted to be part of. - Banana Republic Safari T-Shirt
Before it transformed into the upscale store we know today, the Banana Republic resembled a safari-themed wonderland, complete with animal-themed T-shirts that were all the rage in the ‘80s. It was a whimsical place that sparked our imaginations.
It’s important to note that I didn’t experience a lavish shopping spree; while my mom did indulge me with a few items from my list, I never became the most popular kid in class. However, that Esprit jean jacket and the multicolored Swatch watch I found under the Christmas tree did elevate my status a notch.
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Summary
The ’80s brought a distinctive fashion scene that greatly influenced the lives of kids, particularly during challenging transitions like moving to a new place. From iconic jeans to colorful sweaters, these trends not only defined a generation but also provided a sense of belonging in a new environment.