The 1980s can sometimes get a bad rep. Whenever there’s an outfit that’s a bit too bright, a little too poufy in the sleeves, or clearly acid-washed, we’ll often instantly hear that it’s “so ‘80s.” Well, that’s not all the decade was about, and if you think your closet is immune to the influence of the era of perms and Pat Benatar, you’re about to be proven wrong.
Some of the longest-standing style muses we love today were also championing impressive looks 30 years ago. And the slides ahead are a little reminder of the outfits we loved then and would 100% still wear now. Click on for a walk down memory lane and 11 totally ’80s trends that are as relevant as ever.
A slip dress, a stacked set of choker necklaces, and a bold shade of red. What feels more 2017 than that?
This royal figure was predicting our obsession with statement sleeves way ahead of its time.
Hold on: Was Collins wearing Réalisation 30 years before it became one of the most popular dresses of the summer? It seems so.
Jeans and graphic tees: proving to be the coolest laid-back combo since ’83—and well before then, too.
Frankly, the only thing giving away that this photo was taken in the ’80s is the blue neon light in the background.
The Vogue editor in chief might not wear playful feathers in quite the same way today, but we could easily imagine this dress on many young Hollywood starlets.
We wouldn’t be surprised if Jones inspired modern-day It designers like Johanna Ortiz with her bigger-is-better approach to ruffles.
In her 20s, Shields took on the classic suiting trend but with a way less corporate vibe.
Before she was Kaia Gerber’s mom (and doppelgänger), Crawford was just the most buzzed-about model of the moment with a penchant for LBDs.
We definitely already own this maxi skirt–and–off-the-shoulder top combination. You probably do, too.
While the silhouette reads as very ’80s, Fonda’s high-waisted suiting separates are quite au courant.
Shop more ’80s-inspired trends ahead.
Sleek since ’82 (and beyond).
Who can resist denim with a high waist and not-too-restricting fit?
Currently channeling: Joan Collins.
Grungy yet polished. It’s a key combination.
Puffy sleeves give just a bit of drama to a daytime shirt.
More timeless than trendy.
As fun as it is to show a little leg, we’re fully embracing the full-length silhouette.
How 2017 ladies wear a romantic ’80s trend.
A timelier way to wear Jane Fonda’s cropped blazer.
This wrap style makes a basic black top feel a little less so.Up next: Get inspired by these 15 feminists with some wonderful words of wisdom.
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The Subtle Difference Between the White Jeans Celebs Wear in Beverly Hills Versus CannesAs seen on Cindy Crawford and Alessandra Ambrosio.
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The Ageless Color Trend Women in Their 20s and 50s Are Ditching Black for in 2025It's much more elegant.
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Everyone With Expensive Taste Is Wearing This Denim Color Trend With LoafersIt's probably not what you expect.
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Kaia Gerber Channeled '90s Cindy Crawford at the Academy Museum Gala's After-PartyFrom 1994 to 2024.
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Kaia Gerber Just Wore Every Fashion Insider's Favorite "Almost Flat" ShoesThey're so comfy.
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Kaia Gerber and Cindy Crawford Just Wore the Ageless Dress That Suits EveryoneA true wardrobe hero.
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Cindy Crawford Wore the Jeans-and-Sandals Outfit I See Every Time I Go to L.A.It's a classic.
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Cindy Crawford Wore the $140 Sandals That Nordstrom Shoppers Obsess OverThey're still in stock.
