The 1980s: a decade of bold colors, exaggerated silhouettes, and a unique blend of retro inspiration and futuristic aspirations. While authentic vintage pieces from the ’40s and ’50s are highly coveted, the 1980s offer a treasure trove of “vintage-inspired” garments that capture the essence of mid-century style with a distinctly ’80s twist. These “costumes” – as we might playfully call them today – offer a compelling alternative for vintage enthusiasts, providing affordability, durability, and often, a more forgiving fit.
Deciphering 1980s Does Vintage: A Guide to Costumes
For those seeking the charm of bygone eras, 1980s fashions provide a readily available and often overlooked option. These pieces, heavily influenced by the styles of the 1940s and 1950s, offer a unique gateway into vintage aesthetics. But how can you tell a genuine vintage garment from its 1980s counterpart? Here’s a breakdown of key indicators:
Fabric and Construction Clues:
- Fabric Composition: Polyester, poly-blends, or other synthetics often signal a later production date, as these materials weren’t widely used during the mid-century.
- Fabric Feel: Vintage fabrics often possess a distinct weight, texture, and sheen that differs from mass-produced ’80s garments. Experience with handling genuine vintage pieces will help you differentiate.
- Seam Finishes: Simple zigzag stitches or unfinished seams are more common in ’80s clothing, whereas earlier garments often featured more meticulous seam finishing. Serged seams might also indicate a later production.
Label and Sizing Insights:
- Label Design: Modern-looking logos or care instructions on garment tags often point to an ’80s origin. Researching vintage fashion labels can provide further clues.
- Sizing Discrepancies: Vintage clothing sizes tend to run smaller than modern sizes. A size 10 or 12 dress that fits like a modern size 6 might indicate a garment from the ’70s or ’80s.
Design Details:
- Zipper Type: Plastic zippers are more prevalent in later decades, while metal zippers were commonly used in mid-century garments.
- Pocket Style: Generously sized, slanted pockets were characteristic of ’40s and ’50s designs. ’80s styles often featured smaller, slash, or hidden pockets.
- Color Vibrancy: While fading can occur in any garment, overly bright or crisp colors might suggest a more recent production.
- Elastic Waistbands: Elastic waists became increasingly common in the ’70s and ’80s, especially in designs allowing for greater size flexibility.
Embracing the 1980s as Costumes: Advantages and Appeal
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, 1980s “costumes” offer practical benefits:
- Durability: Often made with sturdier materials than delicate vintage pieces, they can withstand more wear and tear.
- Affordability: Generally less expensive than authentic vintage or high-end reproductions.
- Ease of Care: Many ’80s garments are machine washable, simplifying maintenance.
- Fit: ’80s sizing often aligns more closely with modern body types.
The Enduring Allure of 1980s Fashion Costumes
As genuine vintage becomes increasingly scarce and expensive, the allure of 1980s vintage-inspired clothing continues to grow. These garments provide a tangible connection to the past, allowing individuals to express their unique style and appreciation for bygone eras. Whether you’re a seasoned vintage collector or a newcomer to the scene, exploring the world of 1980s fashion “costumes” can be a rewarding and stylish adventure.
