80’s Fashion For Men/Boys

It is difficult to think about the 1980s without conjuring words like  “decadent,” “cheesy,” “colorful,” and “excessive,” and 80’s men’s fashion drifts duly stand. Nonetheless, the decade was about more than its most intense style of articulation. There is considerable ground to cover between “The Lost Boys” and “Wall Street.”

In that capacity, 80’s fashion for men/boys can mean everything from Air Jordan tennis shoes to casual shirts, loose hip-hop silhouettes, to athleisure wear to preppy trends. As far as the hair was concerned, the decade highlighted hefty metal perms, spiky mohawks, slicked-back hairstyles, buzzcuts, and easygoing side parts. A portion of these patterns has matured ineffectively, while others have not generally grown by any stretch of the imagination.

The 1980s resembled any other decade of the last 60 or so years in that they contained a bit of everything. That does not mean you should not go to extremes when thinking of 80’s ensembles or extravagant dress thoughts. All things considered, once in a while, it is as amusing to take on the appearance of that era when you are doing it in the model 80’s style. Here are some surefire approaches to do it right.

80s Mens Clothing

Bold fashion statements, neon colors, and a distinct sense of individuality marked the 1980s. Men’s clothing during this decade was an explosion of style, influenced by various subcultures and popular icons. From power suits to punk rock attire, the fashion choices of the 80s continue to inspire and captivate even today. From power dressing to casual wear, let’s take a trip down memory lane to explore the vibrant world of 80s men’s clothing, delving into the trends, iconic looks, and cultural influences that defined this unforgettable era.

80’s Casual Cool Style

Casual wear in the 80s was all about embracing a relaxed and carefree aesthetic. Men sought comfort without compromising style. During the ’80s, casual fashion for men entailed wearing dad jeans in full power, frequently with a coordinating denim jacket. Loose, baggy shirts and t-shirts were likewise well-known, while leather jackets, windbreakers, bomber jackets, and sweaters were the outerwear of choice. Regarding footwear, white shoes were a definitive easygoing shoe ideal for various looks.

• Denim Domination:

  Denim became a staple fabric of the 80’s fashion scene. Acid-wash jeans with distinctively faded and blotchy patterns were highly sought after. Ripped denim jackets or vests, often adorned with band patches or buttons, were worn with a rebellious flair. Men embraced a more relaxed and carefree look by pairing denim with brand t-shirts or flannel shirts for a grunge-inspired Although acid wash jeans are yet to make a rebound, ’80s dad jeans are back in trend. To pull off these exemplary pants today, simply get a blurred mid-blue style in a casual fit. Likewise, select a cut with a tightened leg or consider pin-rolling the bottoms for a similar impact.

• 80s T-Shirts:

  During the ’80s, t-shirts were worn with almost anything, including jeans and suits. The most mainstream styles were crew-neck t-shirts, a considerable lot of which highlighted slogans, logos, or bold placement prints. Other famous t-shirt trends included crop tops and baseball shirts.

• 80s Jackets:

  Numerous coats and jackets that were well-known during the ’80s are now considered trendy for men, including leather jackets, bomber jackets, and denim jackets. Notwithstanding, you can’t go wrong with a classic sports windbreaker if you are after a bolder look from the decade.

• Tracksuits and Windbreakers:

  Athleisure might be well known today; however, activewear has for quite some time been a most loved fashion look for men for quite some time. The 80s witnessed the popularization of athleisure fashion. Often made from synthetic fabrics, tracksuits took center stage in casual wear. Bold color combinations, contrasting stripes, and geometric patterns added a sporty and energetic vibe. Windbreakers, with their lightweight and vibrant designs, became a must-have outerwear choice. Completing the look, men sported matching sweatbands and high-top sneakers to exude aesthetic coolness.

• Summer Fashion:

  Summer style during the ’80s was trendy. It highlighted splendid, bright tones, abstract prints, and short-sleeved shirts. 80s fashion for men/boys also included short shorts. Another most loved thing from the time was the crop top, which was worn square-shaped and cut over the stomach.

80’s Power Dressing: Suits and Beyond

The 80s witnessed the rise of power dressing, influenced by the success-driven corporate culture of the time. Men embraced tailored suits with a confident and commanding presence.

• The rise of the power suit: Power suits in the 80s were characterized by broad shoulders and a strong silhouette. The jackets featured padded shoulders, emphasizing a commanding presence. The double-breasted style was trendy, adding more sophistication and authority. Outside the workplace, pastel-hued suits were on the high turn and were routinely matched with crew neck t-shirts rather than formal, collared, button-down shirts.
• Bold colors and patterns: The 80s saw a departure from traditional suiting colors. Men opted for bold, vibrant hues like electric blue, fiery red, and sleep black. Some even embraced patterns like pinstripes or windowpane checks for added visual interest. Pinstripe suits were a top pick for business people, and men would frequently match them with a shirt, tie, and suspenders.
• Shirts: During the 1980s, two primary kinds of shirts were business and casual. For business, striped shirts and banker shirts were famous. On the other hand, casual wear highlighted loose, baggy shirts with beautiful, unique prints. Polo shirts were likewise the most loved thing of the decade as they are considered business casual.
• Statement accessories: Accessories played a crucial role in completing the power look. Wide ties in bold patterns or solid colors were worn with confidence. Suspenders added a touch of sophistication and style. Pocket squares were artfully folded and tucked into jacket pockets. Gold or silver tie clips and cufflinks were popular choices, adding a hint of luxury to the ensemble.

80s New Wave Influence: Music and Fashion Fusion

The music scene of the 80s heavily influenced men’s fashion, particularly the punk and new wave movements. These subcultures embraced unique and rebellious styles.

• Punk and new wave fashion: The rise of punk and new wave music brought an edgy and rebellious fashion trend. Men expressed their individuality through ripped band t-shirts, leather jackets with studs, and slim-fit trousers with chains. Hairstyles, including brilliantly hued mohawks and spikes. Doc Martens or Converse sneakers were popular footwear choices.
• Men’s hip-hop fashion: Hip-hop was another well-known trend in fashion during the ’80s. Propelled and impacted by music stars and rappers, for example, the band Run-D.M.C, Beastie Boys, and W.A member, the style was notable for its oversized outlines and silhouettes. Apart from loose clothing, hip-hop fashion likewise highlighted subtleties pertaining to activewear, such as tennis shoes and athletic caps, and statement jewelry, such as thick gold chains.
• Rock fashion: Like everything during the ’80s, rock style inspired by rock music was about abundance and the whole larger-than-life experience. The hair was enormous, the attire was wild, and a lot of makeup was involved. Likewise with all rock fashion, leather assumed a fundamental role. Accessories were additionally pivotal, with jewelry and headbands becoming popular among men.
• Preppy style: Inspired by music bands of the era, the preppy look gained popularity in the 80s. Men embraced a cleaner and more polished appearance with pastel-colored polo shirts, often layered with a v-neck sweater casually draped over the shoulders. Tailored khaki pants, sometimes featuring pleats, completed the preppy ensemble. Boat shoes or loafers were the footwear of choice, adding a touch of sophistication to the look.

The fashion trends of the 80s left an indelible mark on men’s clothing, showcasing a bold and adventurous approach to style. From power suits to casual denim ensembles and music-inspired looks, the 80s offered men a wide range of fashion choices for men.

80s Men Hairstyles

During the ’80s, fashion went hand in hand with the phrase ‘the bigger, the better,’ particularly regarding hair. Long hair and voluminous styles, including the famous mullet, were trendy throughout the decade. Notwithstanding, men who worked in business regularly parted from this pattern and rocked smooth, slicked-back haircuts. Let’s delve into the iconic hairstyles that were prevalent during that era.

Image Source: RETROPOND

• The Mullet: The mullet hairstyle became synonymous with the 80s. It featured short hair on the front and sides, while the back was left long and flowing. The hairstyle was known for its versatility, allowing men to showcase a professional look from the front and a rebellious look from the back.
• Big and teased hair: Big hair with lots of volume was a defining feature of 80s Men would use mousse, gel, or hairspray to create gravity-defying styles. The hair was often teased and styled to achieve a voluminous and tousled look. Rock bands and musicians of the era popularized this trend.
• Feathered hair: Feathered hair was another popular hairstyle in the 80s. It involved gently feathering the hair backward from the temples and creating a soft, layered effect. This style added a sense of elegance and sophistication to men’s hairstyles.
• Perms: Perms were not just limited to women in the 80s; men also embraced this trend. Perms added curls or waves to straight hair, giving it a textured and voluminous appearance. This style was trendy among men wanting a more extravagant and flamboyant look.
• Hi-Top Fade: The hi-top fade was a trendy hairstyle among African American men in the 80’s. It featured shaved pr closely cropped sides with a significantly longer and squared-off top. This style showcased a unique blend of elegance and urban fashion.

Hairstyles in the 80s offered various options, including the iconic mullet, big and teased hair, feathered styles, perms, and the hi-top fade. These hairstyles contributed to the vibrant fashion scene of the 80s.

80s Men Accessories

Men’s accessories played a significant role in defining and completing the vibrant and daring looks of the time. From statement sunglasses to flashy jewelry and unique bags, the accessories of the 80s allowed men to express their individuality and showcase their sense of style. Let’s explore the iconic pieces that made a lasting impact on the fashion landscape of that era.

• Statement sunglasses:

  Sunglasses in the 80s were functional and a fashion statement. Men embraced oversized frames with bold designs and lenses that stood out. These statement sunglasses were the perfect accessory to exude confidence and add an air of mystery. Aviators and wayfarers were particularly popular styles, with their timeless appeal and ability to complement a range of outfits.

• Chunky and flashy jewelry:

  In the 80s, men embraced the concept of “more is more” when it came to jewelry. Chunky and attention-grabbing pieces were the order of the day. Thick gold or silver chains, bracelets, and rings were worn to make a statement and add a touch of glamor to their outfits. Whether it was a single bold chain or multiple layers of jewelry, men of the 80s knew how to rock these pieces with confidence and flair.

• Wide belts:

  Belts in the 80s were not merely functional accessories but also fashion-forward statement pieces. Wide belts made a bold impression, often featuring flashy materials such as patent leather or metallic finishes. Bright colors and oversized buckles were common features, adding a touch of individuality and style to formal and casual outfits. These wide belts were a perfect way to cinch the waist of power suits or elevate a pair of jeans.

• Shoulder bags and fanny packs:

  Carrying essentials in style was essential in the 80s, and men’s bags became a prominent accessory. Shoulder bags, often made of leather or nylon, provided a fashionable and practical way to carry belongings. They ranged from sleek and minimalistic designs to more extravagant and eye-catching pieces. Fanny packs worn around the waist were popular for their convenience and trendy appeal, allowing men to keep their essentials close at hand while adding a touch of 80s fashion flair.

The 80s was a decade of self-expression, and embracing excess, wide belts, and trendy bags provided the finishing touches to complete their looks. The 80s men’s accessories were all about this as they helped men embrace extravagance and express their style with confidence and flair, leaving a lasting legacy in the fashion world.

80s Fashion for Boys

’80s design for boys was a lot like it was for men. Numerous men’s easygoing styles, such as white tennis shoes and double denim looks, were worn by teenagers and kids. Moreover, the neon styles that were mainstream among grown-ups were likewise worn by numerous young boys.

What Outfits Were Popular In The ’80s?

In the 1980s, men’s fashion was marked by several iconic looks. Casual attire saw the rise of dad jeans and denim, along with preppy polo shirts, sweaters, and pastel trousers. Additionally, the era embraced short shorts, snug tees, and sportswear, reflecting a laid-back vibe. Musical influences played a significant role, with hip-hop inspiring loose-fitting clothing, gold chains, snapbacks, and sneakers, while punk and rock scenes contributed to the popularity of oversized hair, leather jackets, and edgy accessories. Slogan tees paired with denim, bomber jackets, and leather jackets became staples. Formal wear for men featured wide pin-striped suits and striped button-down shirts. Completing the ’80s ensemble were accessories like bum bags, bold sunglasses, and iconic hairstyles such as the memorable mullet.

How Do You Dress in 80s Style?

To pull off the ’80s trends in current times, pick which fashion style from the decade you feel more connected to, for example, hip-hop, preppy, or rock. Put resources into key pieces from the time, for example, bomber jackets, faded jeans, Aztec jeans, and slogan tees. With regards to suits, attempt a pinstripe style for work and a pastel one for the end of the week. Try not to be hesitant to wear bright tones and patterns. For an unpretentious interpretation of the ’80s pattern, simply include accessories, for example, white shoes and a bum bag, to an otherwise contemporary look.

80s Fashion Icons For Men

Each decade and era has its own fashion icons, as is the case for the ’80s. All through the 1980s, the most classy celebs were ordinarily actors or musicians. Probably the most powerful names included Johnny Depp, David Bowie, Tom Cruise, and Rob Lowe.

There was no more prominent icon in the music industry than Michael Jackson. His style was translated into most of the clothing in the 80s. Leather studded jackets, loose, baggy, and oversized tops, flared pants, men’s fashion, and trends closely resembled Michael’s unique style. And let us not forget the sparkly glove-on-one-hand look. Michael Jackson did not only make studded leather jackets a thing, but leather bomber jackets were made popular because of him too.

Did Guys Wear Bandanas In The 80s?

Another extremely popular look during the 80s was the look of the hair bands, and it was the complete opposite of Michael Jackson’s style. This fashion trend was mimicked by bands such as Poison or Metallica. This style incorporated t-shirts, leather or spandex pants, torn jeans, often with a bandana around their extremely teased hair, and studded boots on their feet.

FAQs

What Shoes Did Men Wear In The 80s?

White tennis shoes and high tops were the absolute most common and popular shoes during the 80s. In the rock and punk world, Doc Martens were the shoes most people chose to wear, while loafers fit the preppy and office looks.

What types of jackets were popular in the 80s?

During the 1980s, bomber jackets and leather jackets were extremely fashionable and came in various styles. There was the airforce bomber, which had a military-inspired design. The casual bomber had a more preppy look. Additionally, the letterman (or varsity) jacket was popular for layering.

How can you style a Hawaiian shirt?

The Hawaiian shirt made a genuine comeback in the ’20s, with luxury designers like Gucci, Off Whites, Aries, and AMIRI embracing this iconic style. If you want to pull off a Hawaiian shirt outfit, we recommend pairing a boldly printed shirt with brown corduroy pants for a standout look. Alternatively, you can tone down the shirt’s impact by wearing it with blue denim jeans or chinos.

Were there any specific grooming trends for men in the 80s?

Yes, grooming trends for men in the 80s often included sporting mustaches, long sideburns, and stubble. Men also used air products like gel and hairspray to achieve voluminous hairstyles and maintain their desired looks.

What influenced Men’s fashion In The 80s?

Various sources influenced men’s fashion in the 80s, including popular movies and TV shows like “Miami Vice” and “Top Gun.” Music icons such as Michael Jackson, Prince, and Madonna also significantly impacted the fashion trends during that era.

Did Men wear accessories in the ’80s?

Yes, men in the 80s often wore accessories such as thick gold chains, multiple bracelets, aviator sunglasses, bandanas, and fedora hats. Wearing a single earring, particularly in the left ear, was also popular.

Were there any notable avant-garde fashion movements in the 80s men’s fashion?

Yes, the 80’s fashion witnessed the rise of avant-garde fashion movements. Designers and artists explore unconventional and boundary-pushing styles, incorporating elements like deconstructed garments, exaggerated proportions, and unconventional silhouettes, challenging traditional notions of men’s fashion.

Did sports culture impact men’s fashion in the 80s?

Yes, sports culture had a significant impact on 80s men’s fashion. Athletic wear became a mainstream fashion trend, embracing tracksuits, sweatbands, and high-top sneakers as everyday streetwear. The popularity of sports icons like Michael Jordan and their signature shoe lines also influenced men’s fashion choices.

Conclusion

Men in the 80s unleashed their creativity through bold fashion choices, each outfit serving as a canvas for their individuality. From iconic celebrities to everyday trendsetters, the fashion landscape of this decade was a vibrant tapestry of diverse styles and influences. Today, echoes of these distinctive 80s trends still reverberate in modern men’s fashion, showcasing the enduring legacy of this dynamic era.