1980s men’s fashion: bold, colorful, and iconic

The 1980s was a decade known for its bold, extravagant style. Men’s fashion in the 80s was all about making a statement, whether through power suits, oversized silhouettes, or vibrant colors. This era embraced excess and experimentation, with influences ranging from preppy styles to the rise of hip-hop culture. Here’s a guide to the key trends of 1980s men’s fashion.

Suits: the power suit and oversized style

The 1980s was the era of the power suit, with broad shoulders, wide lapels, and an emphasis on strong, exaggerated silhouettes. Businessmen in the 80s often wore double-breasted suits with padded shoulders, creating a look of authority and confidence. The colors of suits also became bolder, with shades like navy, gray, and even pastel tones making appearances.

• Key features: Broad shoulders, wide lapels, and double-breasted jackets.
• Tip: For a classic 1980s look, opt for a suit with padded shoulders and a wider cut, paired with a bright tie or shirt.
• Popular fabrics: Wool, tweed, and polyester blends.

Trousers: high-waisted and pleated

Trousers in the 1980s were high-waisted with pleats, creating a voluminous shape that balanced out the broad shoulders of the suit jackets. These trousers were often worn with suspenders or belts and could be paired with both formal and casual outfits. Casual pants, like chinos and khakis, were also worn with preppy looks or paired with polo shirts.

• Tip: For an authentic 1980s look, go for high-waisted trousers with pleats and pair them with a tucked-in shirt or a blazer.

Casual wear: preppy, athletic, and denim

The 1980s saw a huge shift toward casual and preppy styles. Brands like Ralph Lauren and Lacoste brought the preppy look into the mainstream, with polo shirts, cable-knit sweaters, and chinos becoming everyday essentials. Athletic wear, influenced by the rise of fitness culture, also became part of everyday fashion, with tracksuits, windbreakers, and sneakers taking center stage. Denim, particularly acid-washed jeans and denim jackets, became a staple of 80s casual fashion.

• Popular casual pieces: Polo shirts, cable-knit sweaters, denim jackets, acid-washed jeans, tracksuits, and windbreakers.
• Tip: For a casual 1980s vibe, pair an oversized denim jacket with acid-washed jeans or opt for a preppy polo shirt with chinos.

Shirts: bold prints and graphic tees

Shirts in the 1980s were anything but subtle. Bold prints, such as florals, geometric patterns, and bright color blocks, were everywhere. Graphic tees also became popular, often featuring band logos, iconic brands, or bold slogans. These shirts were often worn oversized, tucked into high-waisted trousers, or paired with denim for a casual, laid-back look.

• Tip: Embrace the bold patterns of the 80s with an oversized, printed shirt or rock a graphic tee for a more laid-back style.
• Popular patterns: Florals, stripes, geometric designs, and logos.

Outerwear: bomber jackets and leather

Outerwear in the 1980s was defined by oversized silhouettes and bold designs. Bomber jackets became a staple, often worn with jeans or casual outfits. Leather jackets, inspired by punk and rock culture, were also popular, particularly black biker jackets. Members Only jackets and windbreakers, with their sleek, sporty designs, were common casual outerwear pieces during the decade.

• Popular styles: Bomber jackets, leather jackets, Members Only jackets, and windbreakers.
• Tip: A bomber or leather jacket is a great way to add some 1980s flair to your outfit, especially when paired with jeans or chinos.

Footwear: sneakers, loafers, and boots

Footwear in the 1980s was as bold as the clothing. Sneakers, especially brands like Nike, Adidas, and Reebok, became integral to both casual and athletic looks. High-top sneakers, such as the Air Jordans, were extremely popular. Loafers and boat shoes were key elements of the preppy look, while leather boots, particularly Doc Martens, were favored by those embracing punk and alternative styles.

• Tip: Add a pair of high-top sneakers or classic leather loafers to your wardrobe to channel an authentic 1980s look.
• Popular styles: High-top sneakers, loafers, boat shoes, and Doc Martens.

Accessories: bold and statement-making

Accessories in the 1980s were all about making a statement. Wide, colorful ties were often paired with suits, while aviator sunglasses and oversized glasses frames became iconic accessories. Fanny packs, thick wristwatches, and chunky jewelry added to the exaggerated, bold looks of the decade.

• Popular accessories: Aviator sunglasses, fanny packs, wide ties, oversized glasses, and chunky jewelry.
• Tip: Aviator sunglasses or an oversized pair of glasses are perfect for adding that classic 80s touch to your outfit.

Hairstyles and grooming: big hair and mullets

The 1980s was famous for its big hair. Men often styled their hair with volume, whether through long, flowing locks or shorter, voluminous cuts. The mullet, with its “business in the front, party in the back” style, became one of the most iconic hairstyles of the decade. Hair was often teased and styled with a lot of hairspray to achieve that signature 80s volume. Facial hair, particularly mustaches, also saw a resurgence during this decade.

• Tip: Embrace the volume with a teased hairstyle or try out the mullet for a full 1980s look. A well-groomed mustache can also add to the vibe.
• Popular grooming styles: Voluminous hair, mullets, and mustaches.

Final thoughts

The 1980s was a decade of bold, extravagant style, where fashion was all about making a statement. From oversized power suits and preppy casual wear to high-top sneakers and bold prints, the 80s embraced excess and individuality. Whether you’re channeling the sleek business look or embracing the rock ‘n’ roll edge, 1980s men’s fashion offers endless inspiration for adding a retro, iconic touch to your wardrobe.