‘80s Vibe

tracy67675
Jun 17, 2021
3 min read

Photographer: Michelle Perry

Who remembers the ‘80s? What a fun time! Although traumatic when looking back at the fashion. What were we thinking? And not only did we make some of those tragic fashion mistakes once…but some are making them again! Theeerrreeee baaaaccckkkk! Ahhhhhh!!!!

What specifically am I talking about? Let us explore in a game I like to call “Dead or Alive” (just like the Bon Jovi song from the ‘80s). Here are some fashion items of the ‘80s. Try to guess if they are gone “dead” or back “alive”. Although personally I think most should be DEAD! But maybe that is because I am an ‘80s kid who already lived through it. My teenage daughter would disagree.

Let’s explore the 80s trends…

1) Fanny Pack: Alive-ish – Although seen on runways and in high end designer stores, I have yet to know someone who has worn one…especially if someone who grew up in the ‘80s. Unless you are young or a celebrity, let this one go away again. Crossbody is the best way to go hands-free.

2) Neon Colors: Alive – I have always liked a pop of color but can certainly leave the neon to someone else. It reminds me of when I lived in Germany and saw every store with the neon orange, yellow, and green outfits. I mean everywhere! Neon seems to be popular for the younger generation in nails, earrings, and the occasional outfit. But not the strongest emergence trend from the ‘80s.

This being said…I don’t mind a pop of bright color in décor…as long as it fits the space. Meaning, don’t add neon to a traditional home. It goes well in modern décor. Or like the home that is featured here...they added neon in the rooms where it fits the theme.

3) Puffy Sleeves: Alive – I am so into this trend. Loving the puffy sleeves! Although the wedding dresses with puffy sleeves from the 80s can stay at bay.

Tracy is wearing: Top - Moon River; Jeans - Celebrity Gold; Shoes - INC. International Concepts

4) Ripped Jeans: Alive – This is a HUGE trend! Although it seems the “ripped” part has been taken to the next level. I remember having a few rips. The kids now buy jeans that have such large holes it looks like a bomb hit them and blew the material off! Maybe that is the mom in me talking.

5) Off the Shoulder Sweaters: Alive – This trend never really went away. It just re-invented in different ways. It is flirty and fun!

6) Side pony: Alive – It is back without the teasing. Remember taking the comb and teasing the heck out of your hair with as much aerosol hairspray as your hair can take and you can inhale? Glad that part is dead!

Emma is wearing: Sweater - Sunday; Jeans - Wild Fable

7) Big Hair: Dead - Still and forever popular in Texas, this has not made the comeback in the same way. It is much more subtle without the perms. Although, my hairdresser says people still ask for perms. Who are you people?!

8) Shoulder pads: Alive – I would have never guessed that shoulder pads would ever make a comeback…but they have! Although not as much “pad”…so it is less like a linebacker as it is a subtle lift of the shoulder. Much more feminine.

9) Spandex: Alive – As spandex has always been around and has never gone away, the trend I am referring to are the bike shorts. But not bike shorts for working out…bike shorts for normal wear. Again…not a fan. I cannot get the image of Olivia Newton John jumping around in the “Let’s Get Physical” video. But my daughter loves them.

10) High waisted jeans: Alive – Whoever thought Mom jeans were EVER going to be popular again?! (Hand to head on this one.)

11) Leg Warmers: Dead…and should remain buried for eternity.

12) Big Earrings: Alive – Always fun! Sometimes subtle, sometimes bright...sometimes classy, sometimes gaudy. Pick what moves you that day.

13) Parachute pants: Dead! MC Hammer made these pants popular, but this Hammer (that is my nickname) says it is not legit and should quit! Here is how to do the look with relaxed and classy pants with an '80s vibe shirt.