When it comes to ’80s fashion, we have a (surprising) amount to be thankful for. While the decade hasn’t influenced our wardrobes for a long time, in recent months, we’ve come to the realization that all the most current trends today are courtesy of the ’80s.
Keep scrolling to click through our gallery of iconic ’80s outfits.
1. 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.
2. Naked Dress
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 at the Met Gala (and every other award show going).
3. Turtlenecks
Style Notes: Brooke Shields was America’s number one sweetheart back in the ’80s, and here she proves exactly why with those girl-next-door looks. Layering that checked jacket over a shirt and a turtleneck is exactly the kind of street style we saw during last fashion week.
4. See-Through Layers
Style Notes: The Jenner/Kardashian clan has already got this look down—and there are sheer dresses all over the spring runways. But the originator of this style? Another Kim. Kim Basinger.
5. Structured Shoulders
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.
6. Corset Belts
Style Notes: Avid readers of this site will know that we’ve already tried out this corset-type look. And while Kim Kardashian West has been a major factor as to why it’s gotten popular again, we can’t deny that Cyndi Lauper may have started the trend. Also: those zebra shoes.
7. Chunky Jewelry
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 jewelry has in pulling together an outfit.
8. Checked Outerwear
Style Notes: There were so many incredible outfits we could have included from Princess Diana, 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.
9. Showing Off Your Socks
Style Notes: Want to know the real way to update your outfit to be 2020-ready? Just add socks à la Meg Ryan. Yes. Really.
10. Tailoring
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.)