Mens Fashion In The 80's

Men's Fashion in the 1980s: A Decade of Excess and Individuality

The 1980s: a decade synonymous with big hair, bold colors, and a distinct rejection of the minimalist styles of the previous decade. Men's fashion in the 80s was a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of power dressing, athletic influences, and a burgeoning subcultural scene that continues to inspire modern trends. This article dives deep into the iconic styles, key pieces, and cultural influences that defined men's fashion during this transformative era. We’ll explore everything from the sharp suits of Wall Street to the rebellious looks of punk and new wave.

The Power Suit: Embracing the "Greed is Good" Mentality

The 1980s saw the rise of the yuppie (young urban professional), and with it, the dominance of the power suit. This wasn't just any suit; it was a statement of ambition, success, and wealth. Think broad shoulders, double-breasted jackets, often in bold colors like navy, grey, or even burgundy. Shoulder pads were de rigueur, creating a boxy, powerful silhouette. These suits were typically paired with crisp, white shirts, often with French cuffs and cufflinks, and subtly patterned ties, often in silk. The overall effect was one of polished confidence, reflecting the prevailing ethos of the era – a time when material success was highly valued.

The fabrics were luxurious: wool, cashmere, and silk were common choices. The cut was meticulously tailored, emphasizing a structured, almost imposing presence. This style wasn't just for the boardroom; it permeated various aspects of men's formal wear, including wedding attire and even some more casual social settings. The power suit epitomized the 80s’ fascination with projecting an image of strength and authority.

The Athletic Influence: Casual Comfort Meets Style

While the power suit reigned supreme in formal settings, the casual wear of the 80s saw a significant influx of athletic influences. The rise of fitness culture and the increasing popularity of aerobics contributed to this trend. Tracksuits, once relegated to the sporting arena, became mainstream. These weren’t your grandmother's tracksuits; they came in vibrant colors, often with bold stripes or logos, reflecting the decade's love for bright hues and branding.

Athletic shoes also experienced a surge in popularity. Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Reebok became household names, their sneakers transcending their original function to become fashion statements. These shoes were often worn with jeans, chinos, or even with more formal attire, blurring the lines between athletic and casual wear. The iconic high-top sneakers, especially in bold colors, are a testament to this era's fusion of sport and style. This influence continues to resonate today, with athletic-inspired clothing remaining a cornerstone of modern menswear.

Denim: A Versatile Staple Across Subcultures

Denim remained a staple throughout the 80s, but its styles evolved significantly. Acid-washed jeans were a defining feature, offering a faded, distressed look that was both rebellious and fashionable. These jeans were often paired with everything from band t-shirts to more formal tops, demonstrating denim's versatility. Ripped jeans and stonewashed denim also found their place in the 80s wardrobe, adding texture and visual interest to an outfit.

The fit of jeans varied, with both skinny and baggy styles gaining popularity, reflecting the diversity of fashion preferences across subcultures. High-waisted jeans were a common sight, contributing to the overall silhouette of the era. Whether paired with a preppy sweater, a leather jacket, or a simple t-shirt, denim was a versatile element that could be easily adapted to different styles and occasions.

Layering: The Art of Building an Outfit

Layering became a prominent technique in 80s menswear. This involved combining different garments to create depth and texture. A common example was layering a sweater over a collared shirt, perhaps with a jacket on top. This technique added visual interest and allowed for greater flexibility in adapting an outfit to changing weather conditions.

The layering style allowed for the mixing of different textures and fabrics, contributing to the overall aesthetic richness of an outfit. Leather jackets were a popular outer layer, particularly among those influenced by rock and motorcycle subcultures. The focus was on creating visually appealing and practical outfits that could transition seamlessly throughout the day.

Accessories: The Finishing Touches

Accessories played a crucial role in completing the 80s look. Bold, statement pieces were favored, reflecting the decade's penchant for expressing individuality. These included:

• Sunglasses: Aviators and oversized sunglasses were extremely popular, adding a touch of cool and mystery to any outfit.
• Jewelry: Large, chunky necklaces, bracelets, and earrings were frequently worn, often in gold or silver.
• Belts: Wide belts, often with large buckles, were a common accessory, adding a focal point to an outfit.
• Hats: Baseball caps, fedoras, and beanies found their place in 80s menswear, adding a touch of personality to different styles.
• Wristwatches: Large, sporty watches or elegant dress watches were essential accessories, serving both practical and stylistic purposes.

Subcultural Influences: Punk, New Wave, and Beyond

Beyond the mainstream styles, the 80s saw a flourishing of subcultural fashion expressions. Punk and new wave heavily influenced men's clothing, with ripped jeans, leather jackets, studded belts, and brightly colored hair being common features. The look was rebellious, anti-establishment, and a clear rejection of mainstream conformity.

Hip-hop culture also began to make its mark, introducing bolder colors, oversized silhouettes, and elements of sportswear into men's fashion. This influence reflected the growing prominence of hip-hop music and its impact on popular culture. These subcultural influences added layers of complexity and diversity to the overall landscape of 80s menswear.

Hair and Grooming: The Big and Bold Look

Hair and grooming were equally important aspects of 80s men's fashion. Big hair was the norm, with voluminous styles, often achieved with hairspray and teasing, being highly popular. Mustaches were also common, adding a touch of masculinity to the overall look. The emphasis was on creating a bold, attention-grabbing appearance that reflected the decade's vibrant energy.

Evolution Throughout the Decade: From Power Dressing to More Relaxed Styles

The 1980s wasn't a monolithic period in terms of fashion. The decade witnessed a gradual shift from the structured, formal styles of the early 80s to more relaxed and casual looks towards the end. The latter part of the decade saw a movement toward less structured suits, more comfortable fabrics, and a greater emphasis on individual expression. This evolution reflects the changing social and economic landscape of the time.

The Legacy of 80s Menswear: A Continuous Source of Inspiration

The fashion trends of the 1980s, despite their sometimes flamboyant nature, continue to inspire designers and fashion enthusiasts today. Elements like the power suit, athletic-inspired clothing, and the bold use of color are regularly reinterpreted and incorporated into contemporary menswear. The decade's emphasis on individuality and self-expression remains a powerful message that transcends time. Understanding the fashion of the 80s is not just a historical exercise; it's a journey into a fascinating period of stylistic experimentation and cultural evolution that continues to resonate in modern fashion. The decade's legacy lies not only in its iconic pieces but also in its celebration of bold choices and unique self-expression.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What were the most popular colors in 80s men's fashion?

A: Bold colors were highly favored, including bright blues, reds, greens, and purples. Pastels also enjoyed a period of popularity, especially in shirts and sweaters. Neon colors made a strong appearance in athletic wear and accessories.

Q: What kind of shoes were popular in the 80s?

A: Athletic sneakers from brands like Nike, Adidas, and Reebok were incredibly popular, alongside loafers, dress shoes, and boots, depending on the occasion and personal style.

Q: Were there any specific hairstyles that defined the 80s for men?

A: Big hair, often achieved with substantial amounts of hairspray, was a defining characteristic. Mullets and teased styles were also prevalent.

Q: How did 80s men's fashion differ from previous decades?

A: The 80s saw a move away from the more understated styles of the 70s, embracing bolder colors, more structured silhouettes (especially in suits), and a stronger emphasis on projecting an image of success and confidence.

Q: What is the lasting impact of 80s men's fashion?

A: Many elements of 80s menswear, such as athletic-inspired clothing, layering techniques, and the use of bold colors, continue to influence modern fashion trends. The decade's emphasis on self-expression also remains relevant today.

Q: Where can I find more information about 80s fashion?

A: You can find further information through vintage clothing stores, fashion history books, documentaries focusing on 1980s popular culture, and online resources dedicated to fashion history. Many fashion blogs and websites also discuss 80s trends and their impact on modern style.

Conclusion

The 1980s offered a unique and vibrant landscape in men's fashion, a period characterized by bold statements, contrasting styles, and a strong emphasis on individual expression. From the powerful silhouettes of the power suit to the rebellious energy of punk fashion, the decade provided a rich tapestry of influences that continue to inspire modern designers and fashion enthusiasts alike. By understanding the key trends, iconic pieces, and cultural forces that shaped 80s menswear, we gain a deeper appreciation for its lasting impact and its continued relevance in today's ever-evolving fashion world. It was a decade of extremes, a decade of excess, but most importantly, a decade of undeniable style.