Let's be honest, the 80's was the best era yet.

I'm glad you agree.

For those of us who were children of that decade, we stepped into a world brimming with taffeta, denim, hairspray, oversized jewellery, and leather box jackets. A world where anything and everything went.

And boy did it ever.

I remember my mother teasing and spraying my hair to achieve maximum volume for school photos. I remember my father's sideburns and his mustard-colored Mustang. I remember racing my older brothers to Blockbuster Video on our souped-up BMX bikes.

Who knew this fashion was just a 'trend'?

Unfortunately, iconic 80s fashion is now mostly confined to retro party nights. While costume parties can be hit or miss, an 80s party is an opportunity not to be wasted. I urge you to dig deep into your closet, resurrect your former fashion glory, and put together a look that won't disappoint.

And I'm going to show you how.

To truly rock the look, you'll want to look beyond the neon jazzercise wear. (Although, to be fair, you'll work up a sweat by cutting shapes on the dance floor.) Most people go for the workout look, so if you want to stand out, think outside the box.

Take inspiration from these iconic trends and nail your next 80s party look.

Maximalism—the name says it all. Think oversized box suits, shoulder pads, and double-breasted skirt suits. Power dressing can be as simple as a boxy blazer with a cinched waist over a turtleneck. Go big with your hair and jewellery.
Leather Looks—A hot leather dress with puff sleeves paired with fishnet tights will transport you right back to the 80s. Or try a little black dress with an oversized motorcycle jacket to channel Cindy Crawford.
Double down on denim—channel your inner Jamie-Lee with high-waisted acid-wash jeans paired with a bright bodysuit. Opt for shredded denim jackets adorned with plenty of patches and pins.
London Punk: Break out the chains, studs, and layered industrial jewellery. Pair them with a black leather mini and fishnets to truly rock this edgy look.
The Madonna Look—my personal favorite. Start with a lace bustier paired with matching fingerless lace gloves. Chunky gold jewellery tops off the look.
Preppy 'Ivy League' Style—Gentlemen, break out the seersucker suit, pop the collar on your polo shirt, and drape a knit sweater over your shoulders to nail this classic look.
Prairie Chic: Imagine floral dresses and skirts with drop waists and boxy silhouettes, ruffled tops, high necklines (like pilgrim collars) and voluminous sleeves. And, of course, don't forget the big hair.

Miami Vice Look: This iconic style for men features a white or pastel-coloured sports suit layered over a tropical shirt. And don’t forget those Ray-Bans!

Accessories to Clash—Polish your outfit with standout accessories like layered chunky pearls, statement earrings, and bold buttons. Don't forget sequins, pouf details pattern-clashing, polka dots, bright hues, stirrup leggings, and long gloves.
Hairstyles: No discussion of 80s fashion is complete without discussing hair. When it comes to hairstyles, bigger is always better. Hot looks include permed curls, side-swept styles, layered bangs, and crimped waves. For the guys, think jheri curls, flat tops, mohawks, and slicked-back styles.

So it’s time to raid the second-hand stores, crank up the Sade, and stock up on hairspray.

An 80's night lets you dress how you would choose to—if not for societal norms. In other words, it's an opportunity not to be missed. So be bold and rock it!

One last piece of advice:

Just remember, more is more.

Nailing an 80's Party Look; 10 Iconic Trends Guaranteed to Turn Heads

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