When it comes to ’80s fashion, we have a (surprising) amount to be thankful for. While the decade previously hadn’t influenced our wardrobes for a long time, in recent years, we’ve come to the realisation that all the most current trends today are courtesy of the ’80s. Now, if you’re not too familiar with the nuances of this era, there are a few standout looks we’re sure you’ll recognise: big shoulders, white jeans, underwear as outerwear and oversized jewellery. It was the decade of the power dresser but also of punks. It gave us Madonna, Sade, Tina Turner and Cher, plus numerous other superstars whose sense of style influences many right now.
While Y2K might have been the top nostalgic fashion decade for the past few years, designers have clearly switched their focus to the ’80s in 2024, particularly when it comes to evening wear. Whether you’re looking to embrace the OTT glamour of ’80s eveningwear or the power shouldered suits, we’ve found 36 A-list images that prove these ’80s fashion looks are as current now as they were then.
1. Madonna and Her Bodysuits
Style Notes: This is classic ’80s Madonna, but the underwear/bodysuit look is bang on the money for now. You can forgo the pearls—just wear yours with some high-waisted jeans for a night out.
Shop the Look:
SKIMS
Fits Everybody Square Neck Bodysuit
£60
A shaping bodysuit will smooth and sculpt your figure.
H&M
One-Shoulder Thong Body
£19
A bodysuit you can take from day to night.
ANINE BING
Alysha Stretch-Lace Bodysuit
£130
This lace bodysuit has such an ’80s feel to it.
2. A “Naked” Dress, as Loved by Cher
Style Notes: As if we needed any more proof that Cher is the ultimate style queen, here was the star doing the naked dress before everyone was doing it on the red carpet.
Shop the Look:
CULT GAIA
Mitra Embellished Cutout Halterneck Gown
£662
Ease into this daring trend with this peekaboo dress.
INDAH
Julie Solid Ruched Bodice Cutaway Maxi Dress
£212
Festival-chic.
TOTEME
Mesh-Paneled Knitted Maxi Dress
£600
If you want something slightly more subtle, mesh is great option for the “naked” dress look.
3. Roll-Necks for Everyone, Including Brooke Shields
Style Notes: Brooke Shields was America’s number one sweetheart back in the ’80s, and here, she proves exactly why.
Shop the Look:
COS
Merino Wool Turtleneck Top
£45
Go full ’80s by styling it with a blazer or open white shirt.
ANTHROPOLOGIE
Maeve Ribbed Mock-Neck Cropped T-Shirt
£40
I’m obsessed with this entire look.
REFORMATION
Arco Cashmere Sleeveless Turtleneck Sweater
£148
This comes in so many chic colours.
4. See-Through Layers Were Loved by Kim Basinger
Style Notes: The Jenner/Kardashian clan may be the current leaders of this trend, but the originator of this style? Another Kim—Kim Basinger.
Shop the Look:
ASOS DESIGN
Mesh Drape Top With Cap Sleeve in Black With Stone Lining
£22
Wear with a blazer and trousers.
COS
Pleated Racer-Neck Maxi Dress
£115
How chic is this?
REFORMATION
Will Oversized Sheer Shirt
£128
Perfect for nights out.
5. Structured Shoulders, Styled by Courteney Cox
Style Notes: Okay, so the term “structured shoulders” is just another way for us to say “shoulder pads” and attempt to not freak you out, but we’ve seen a real trend toward this look. Shout-out to Courteney Cox for wearing this on the red carpet pre–Monica Gellar days.
Shop the Look:
MANGO
Padded Shoulder Blazer
£90
A subtle way to try the look.
NORMA KAMALI
Long Sleeve Shoulder Pad Side Slit Gown
£225
Padded shoulders make everything look more expensive.
MINT VELVET
Black Cotton Padded Shoulder T-Shirt
£35
Wear with jeans and a pair of slingback heels.
6. Corset Belts Were a Cyndi Lauper Essential
Style Notes: A cinched waist is the ultimate styling trick, and we can’t deny that Cyndi Lauper is the queen of the trend. Also: those zebra shoes.
Shop the Look:
H&M
Wide Waist Belt
£20
Highlight your figure with a waist-defining belt.
COS
Knotted Leather Waist Belt
£65
A corset belt will elevate your classic white dresses.
HAUTE CUIR
Crescent Leather Corset Belt
£322
A more subtle take on the trend
7. Chunky Jewellery Was Joan Collins’s Armour
Style Notes: Joan Collins is so incredible in this snap. Is there anything we don’t love about it? Answer: No. The jacket, the simple black top, the red lippie… However, it’s the gobstopper necklace our magpie eyes focus on. Joan knows the power incredible jewellery has in pulling together an outfit.
Shop the Look:
SEZANE
Joseph Necklace
£125
Just as elegant with a white shirt and jeans as an evening dress.
MANGO
Faceted Crystal Necklace
£18
This will look so cool layered with other chunky necklaces.
MINT VELVET
Heart Pendant Link Necklace
£29
I love the heart pendant on this chain.
8. Checked Outerwear Was Adored by Royalty
Style Notes: There were so many incredible outfits from Princess Diana we could have included, but we settled on this “country-casual” one. The heritage check on her jacket and matching skirt are classic attire. Not only has this Harrington-style jacket made a comeback in hipster circles, but we’re also seeing plaid coats everywhere. Coincidence? We think not.
Shop the Look:
WITH NOTHING UNDERNEATH
The Classic in Fine Brushed, Rust Plaid
£125
Trust With Nothing Underneath to make checks feel simultaneously modern and classic.
MASSIMO DUTTI
Check Bomber Jacket With Contrast Buttons
£129
A great lightweight option for the transitional weather.
TOTEME
Checked Wool Blazer
£820
I also love the matching trousers.
9. Showing Off Your Socks Was a Meg Ryan–Approved Move
Style Notes: Want to know the real way to update your outfit for 2024? Just add socks à la Meg Ryan. Yes, really.
Shop the Look:
MANGO
Long Ribbed Socks
£13
Wear with ballet flats to elevate the entire outfit.
CALZEDONIA
Classic patterned socks
£6
These affordable mesh socks will make any outfit look more expensive.
H&M
3-Pack Shaftless Socks
£10
The frills are so cute!
10. Tailoring Made Up Grace Jones’s Wardrobe
Style Notes: Grace Jones will never be anything less than fierce, but this incredible look has been seared into our minds. Who wouldn’t want to look so focused in a razor-sharp piece of tailoring? (Purple makeup optional, of course.)
Shop the Look:
THE FRANKIE SHOP
Bea Crepe Blazer
£305
No one does tailoring like The Frankie Shop.
COS
Wide-Leg Tailored Twill Trousers
£95
This relaxed fit brings the 80s suit into 2024.
ALIGNE
Mira Boxy Blazer
£165
Just add jeans and a matching waistcoat.
11. Miniskirts Were Loved by Kylie Minogue
Style Notes: Kylie Minogue wore a lot of high-shine minis like this. Get inspired by investing in 2024’s sequinned version.
Shop the Look:
REFORMATION
Veranda Skirt
£148
What a look!
COS
High-Shine Satin Mini Skirt
£55
How fun is this?
NADINE MERABI
Nikita White Skirt
£265
A more subtle take on the sequin trend.
12. High-Waisted Jeans Were Worn by Models, Singers and Actresses
Style Notes: We have some serious love for high-waisted jeans. Tina Turner pulls this look off with aplomb, and we have to agree: Bauble earrings and a white vest are great accessories.
Shop the Look:
AGOLDE
90’s Pinch Waist High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans
£310
I love the vintage wash.
REFORMATION
Cynthia High Rise Straight Long Jeans
£168
Add a simple tank and some slingback heels for an effortlessly chic look.
MASSIMO DUTTI
Straight Fit High-Waist Jeans
£60
I own this pair and they’re so flattering.
13. Baggy Cropped Trousers Were a Part of the Off-Duty Celeb Uniform
Style Notes: Well, how else do you expect to show off your socks? Thanks to Demi Moore for inspiring us all those years ago.
Shop the Look:
GANNI
Black Elasticated Curve Trousers
£165
I love the contrast stitching on this pair.
COS
Pleated Barrel-Leg Denim Trousers
£85
The perfect mix of casual and smart.
COS
The Utility Barrel Pant
£94
With an oversized shirt and flats, this relaxed silhouette will feel just as modern today.
14. Tights—Especially Sheer Ones—Were Loved by Sassy Ladies Like Debbie Harry
Style Notes: Debbie Harry has brought us many a trend. But during the ’80s, we got to see her in chic little black dresses, which she accessorised with a flash of low denier at most times. And in case you didn’t know, that kind of hosiery is news again.
Shop the Look:
AUTOGRAPH
3pk 10 Denier Ladder Resist Matt Tights
£10
Go bold with ultra sheer 10 denier.
COS
Sheertex Semi-Sheer Polka-Dot Tights
£30
A playful touch to add to your evening outfits.
H&M
2-Pack 20 Denier Tights
£6
H&M offers these in several different adaptable skin tones.
15. Bold Buttons Adorned Every Blazer
Style Notes: We’ve seen this trend start to appear on trousers, from old-school joggers to jeans with shiny gold buttons, as well as on the classic Balmain blazers that remain forever popular. Jerry Hall’s gold buttons down her nautical blazer and gold bracelets made for the ultimate ’80s power look.
Shop the Look:
BALMAIN
Double-Breasted Wool-Twill Blazer
£2050
Perfectly cut.
MANGO
Double-Breasted Blazer
£90
This could easily be mistaken for designer.
VERONICA BEARD
Miller Dickey Jacket
£599
So chic!
16. Off-the-Shoulder Silhouettes Really Picked Up Steam
Style Notes: True, Goldie Hawn didn’t invent the off-the-shoulder style, but she knew how to do it right.
Shop the Look:
REFORMATION
Florentina Knit Top
£128
This shade of red is so pretty.
COS
Off-The-Shoulder Scoop-Back Top
£55
Simple but sleek.
& OTHER STORIES
Slim One-Shoulder Top
£65
The asymmetrical neckline is so elevated.
17. Leggings Were Worn by Rockers and Fitness Fanatics Alike
Style Notes: Joan Jett will never be anything less than cool. Her punk-inspired ensembles often involved oversized jackets and skintight trousers. While leggings have definitely come on a bit since then, take inspo from this look and pair your leggings (or black skinny jeans) with a leather jacket this weekend.
Shop the Look:
LULULEMON
Align™ Super-High-Rise Pant 28″
£88
Those leggings you lived in during lockdown just need a tee and leather jacket.
ARKET
Seamless Capri Tights
£22
Capris are another past trend that have found their way back into our wardrobes this year.
M&S COLLECTION
Magic Shaping High Waisted Leggings
£23
This pair was made with built-in tummy control.
18. No Outfit Was Complete Without Shoulder Pads Like SJP’s
Style Notes: Things tended to be pretty oversized during the ’80s, and no other item was as exaggerated as the blazer.
Shop the Look:
THE FRANKIE SHOP
Bea Oversized Cady Blazer
£275
A lighter shade, oversized blazer is perfect for spring.
MASSIMO DUTTI
100% Cool Wool Suit Blazer
£169
You can never go wrong with a simple black blazer.
REISS
Hawthorn Jacket
£375
Just wow!
19. Every Major Celeb Had a Sequin Moment
Style Notes: When aren’t sequins a great idea? As seen on Diana Ross, this look is making us long for an excuse to dress up.
Shop the Look:
RIXO
Gail
£445
We’re finding any excuse to wear this sequin dream.
ZARA
Sequinned Slip Dress
£70
This can be dressed up or down for any occasion.
CLIO PEPPIATT
Galaxy Embellished Stretch-Mesh Mini Dress
£1350
I love the ombre effect on this sequin mini.
20. And a Tassel Moment, Too
Style Notes: Yes, the ’70s might have been the era for bodysuits, but with the ’80s came extra bits like tassels.
Shop the Look:
PRETTY LAVISH
Hen One Shoulder Fringed Midaxi Dress
£88
Fringe is a big trend for the upcoming season, and this one shoulder fringe dress is such a cool take.
ZARA
Fringed Top
£50
I love how this has been dressed down with tailored trousers and loafers for a more casual look.
JIMMY CHOO
Vinca 95
£1225
If you’re not ready to fully jump into the tassel clothing trend, why not start off with these cool tassel-detail heels?
21. Vinyl Jackets Were Introduced to Replace Standard Leathers
Style Notes: The vinyl-coat trend has been everywhere for the past few years, and we see it sticking around for many more. But it was in the ’80s when one of the original supermodels, Cindy Crawford, made it look iconic.
Shop the Look:
ACNE STUDIOS
Padded Coated Jersey Bomber Jacket
£750
How cool is this?
THE FRANKIE SHOP
Olympia oversized faux-leather jacket
£320
Nothing screams the ’80s like a leather blazer.
KITRI
Bonnie Black Vinyl Jacket
£215
I’m obsessed with this jacket.
22. No Casual Outfit Was Complete With a Graphic Tee
Style Notes: Model Pat Cleveland knew how to make a graphic tee look chic. It’s still one of our favourite outfits for the weekend.
Shop the Look:
GANNI
Relaxed Bunny T-Shirt
£95
Add a blazer, jeans and mules, and you’re ready to go.
FRAME
+ Ritz Paris Oversized Printed Cotton-Jersey T-Shirt
£290
This has been on my wishlist for awhile now.
H&M
Oversized Motif-Detail T-Shirt
£13
H&M has some great affordable graphic tee options.
23. Sunglasses Were the Biggest They’ve Probably Ever Been
Style Notes: Susan Sarandon is just one of the reasons we love oversized sunglasses.
Shop the Look:
TORY BURCH
Miller Oversized Square Sunglasses
£180
The bigger, the better.
CELINE
Oversized Square-Frame Sunglasses
£400
The sunglasses on all of our editors’ wishlist.
MANGO
Square Sunglasses
£20
You don’t have to spend lots on expensive-looking sunglasses.
24. Even Denim Jackets Were Supersized
Style Notes: Before Sex and the City, SJP was already pushing the fashion boundaries.
Shop the Look:
SEZANE
Wilfrield Denim Jacket
£125
Pair with the matching mini skirt for a full denim look.
REFORMATION
Jori Cropped Denim Jacket
£178
I love the boxier cropped fit.
WHISTLES
Flare Sleeve Denim Jacket
£119
This doubles up as a shirt and a jacket.
25. Geek-Chic Glasses Ruled the Celebrity Roost
Style Notes: Geek-chic glasses might be commonplace now, but it was during the ’80s that they really took off. Acetate frames, as seen here on Jane Fonda, have definitely made a comeback.
Shop the Look:
SAINT LAURENT
Aviator Acetate Sunglasses
£345
Make the most of your specs with an oversized, statement-making style.
MIU MIU
MU 04UV square-frame acetate glasses
£300
No one does geek-chic like Miu Miu.
ASOS DESIGN
Clear Lens Aviator Glasses
£14
These look just as expensive as the designer options!
26. It Was a Time of Over-Accessorising, so Gloves Were Key
Style Notes: Daryl Hannah’s got all the accessories a decent ’80s look should have, but you’ll notice time and again that gloves (especially with layered jewellery) are key for this decade.
Shop the Look:
H&M
Long Gloves
£19
Stylish people everywhere are getting back into gloves for dressy occasions, and we plan to go all-out with this long pair.
CLIO PEPPIATT
Chantilly Embellished Ruched Tulle Gloves
£295
Clio Peppiatt makes the prettiest occasion wear.
NBD
Tatiana Glove
£56
For when you really want to make a statement.
27. Skirt Suits Were a Favourite for Society Girls
Style Notes: Sarah Ferguson and Diana, Princess of Wales, were both particularly keen on skirt suits for their more formal events in the ’80s. The look translated quickly into offices and parties, especially in this ultra-matchy form.
Shop the Look:
TOPSHOP
Satin Maxi Skirt in Brown and Ivory Spot
£38
Style with the matching blouse for a look straight out of Pretty Woman.
M&S COLLECTION
Linen Blend Side Split Maxi Column Skirt
£35
I’ll be recreating this look all summer.
SELF-PORTRAIT
Knitted Mini Skirt
£250
This is so ’80s.
28. Aerobic Gear Wasn’t a Street Trend, But It Was Essential
Style Notes: Jane Fonda started it in the 1970s, but by the time the 1980s arrived, spandex leggings, leotards and legwarmers were commonplace, and everyone was a fitness fanatic (for a time, at least).
Shop the Look:
& OTHER STORIES
Off-Shoulder Wrap Bodysuit
£55
For a more 2024 feel, style with jeans.
SPANX
Seamless Ecocare Medium Control Leggings
£58
Spanx is my go-to for comfortable leggings.
SKIMS
Black Fits Everybody Square-Neck Bodysuit
£58
A square neckline is so flattering.
29. Harem Pants Were Given the Green Light
Style Notes: Call them MC Hammer pants or harem pants, but never forget that drop-crotch trousers (the more draped, the better) were a key look in the ’80s. Here’s Donna Summer doing them justice.
Shop the Look:
FREE PEOPLE
To the Sky Parachute Trousers
£78
The dream summer trouser.
ALLSAINTS
Kaye Straight Fit Drawcord Trousers
£139
Yes to this entire look.
GANNI
Beige Washed Satin Pocket Trousers
£265
These come is so many cool colours.
30. Polka Dots Kept Coming Back Through the ’80s
Style Notes: Polka dots are back again, but one of the most current-looking ways they were worn in the ’80s was thanks to singer Sade and this cool shirt.
Shop the Look:
DÔEN
Ramona Dress
£528
Polka dot dresses will always look elegant.
ZARA
Polka Dot Print Shirt
£26
Wear with a mini and tall boots.
RIXO
Oleander – Polka Dot Brown
£245
This dress can be dressed up or down with sandals or heels for evening.
31. Flouncy Sleeves Were a Princess Diana Go-To
Style Notes: Princess Diana’s balloon-sleeved monochromatic blouse is too good to leave out and feels so current.
Shop the Look:
NOBODY’S CHILD
Plum Balloon Sleeve Ria Blouse
£45£36
I love the colour of this blouse.
ALIGNE
Gabriella Denim Midi Dress
£110
This dress has such a retro feel to it.
MALINA CLEO
Overside Puff Sleeve Top
£255
This can easily be taken from day to night. Simply swap out your jeans and ballet flats with tailored trousers and kitten heels.
32. Beige Continued on From the ’70s Well Into the ’80s
Style Notes: Beige really took off in the summer of 2018 (and continues still), but you need only look to Debbie Harry, who wore the trend three decades ago.
Shop the Look:
REFORMATION
Nala Cotton Cashmere Cardigan
£248
Minimalists everywhere know how impactful beige can be.
EVERLANE
The Linen Way-High® Drape Pant
£94
Beige trousers make every outfit look so expensive.
VERONICA BEARD
Mackey Seersucker Halter Dress
£548
The perfect summer dress.
33. Oversize Blazers Were Best Worn With Plenty of Jewellery
Style Notes: The oversized look was everywhere in the ’80s and wasn’t just limited to jackets—jewellery, too, was statement. In 2024, this is a trend that is making a big comeback.
Shop the Look:
MANGO
Chain Necklace
£18
Stack ’em up.
COS
Chunky Beaded Necklace
£55
This will elevate any evening look.
EMMA HOLLAND JEWELLERY
Gold & Platinum Chunky Chain Necklace
£130
If you can’t pick between silver or gold, why not opt for this necklace?
34. Laura Ashley–Style Prints Looked Just as Cute Then
Style Notes: A trend that has made a surprising comeback, Laura Ashley–inspired dresses are everywhere right now. Yes, that’s Gwyneth Paltrow!
Shop the Look:
RIXO ⋆
Amina Dress
£265
A great throw-on dress.
POLO RALPH LAUREN
Floral Crepe Short-Sleeve Dress
£319
Perfect for any garden party this summer.
KITRI
Bethany Polka Floral Tea Dress
£175
I love the collared neckline on this dress.
35. No Classic Wardrobe Is Ever Complete Without a Safari Jacket
Style Notes: The most timeless of jackets. Even in the ’80s, it looked incredible.
Shop the Look:
TOTEME
Army Jacket Khaki Green
£480
A utility-style jacket looks so good in this olive green.
M&S COLLECTION
Cotton Rich Waisted Utility Jacket
£50
This comes with a chic cinched-in waist.
MANGO
Chest-Pocket Cotton Overshirt
£60
A cool mix between denim and utility.
36. Green Was Often the Colour du Jour
Style Notes: Green was very popular during the ’80s, but no one wore it better than HRH.
Shop the Look:
BOTTEGA VENETA
Candy Jodie
£1170
A fun pop of colour to add into your wardrobe.
NOBODY’S CHILD
Green Linen-blend Balloon Sleeve Zora Midi Dress
£130
Just stunning.
STRADIVARIUS
Oversize Poplin Shirt
£23
Wear with jeans and trainers.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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