1987 Fashion for men was a vibrant mix of bold statements and evolving classics, and at mens-fashion.net, we help you navigate this iconic era. From the rise of power dressing to the emergence of casual chic, understanding these trends allows you to appreciate the era’s influence on contemporary menswear and discover your personal style. Explore mens-fashion.net for the latest insights on men’s fashion, including outfit ideas, style guides, and expert advice, and uncover the enduring appeal of 1980s men’s trends such as preppy looks, casual wear, and avant-garde styles.
1. What Characterized Men’s Fashion in 1987?
Men’s fashion in 1987 was characterized by a blend of assertive power dressing and the rise of casual and preppy styles. Power dressing emphasized sharp, tailored suits with broad shoulders, reflecting a desire for professional success and status. Simultaneously, more relaxed styles, influenced by sportswear and classic American looks, gained popularity, offering versatility and comfort.
Expanding on this, 1987 was a year where traditional menswear norms were challenged and redefined. The decade’s overall ethos of extravagance and individuality seeped into men’s wardrobes, allowing for more experimentation with colors, patterns, and silhouettes. According to research from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), in July 2025, this period marked a significant shift towards personal expression in men’s fashion, as noted in “Fashion and Its Social Agendas: Class, Gender, and Identity in Clothing,” bright colors, bold accessories, and unconventional pairings became increasingly common, reflecting a broader cultural embrace of individuality.
1.1. Key Trends Shaping Men’s Fashion in 1987
- Power Dressing: Tailored suits with padded shoulders and strong silhouettes dominated the professional landscape.
- Preppy Style: Inspired by Ivy League aesthetics, this trend included chinos, polo shirts, and argyle sweaters.
- Sportswear Influence: Athleisure elements like tracksuits and sneakers were incorporated into everyday wear.
- Bold Colors and Patterns: Bright hues and geometric designs added flair to outfits.
- Denim Domination: Jeans and denim jackets were essential casual wear items.
2. How Did Power Dressing Define 1987 Men’s Fashion?
Power dressing in 1987 was a defining trend characterized by sharp, structured suits designed to project authority and success. These suits typically featured broad shoulders, strong lines, and high-quality fabrics, creating a commanding silhouette that reflected the ambitions of the era’s professionals. The trend was about making a statement, exuding confidence, and asserting one’s presence in the workplace.
In more detail, the power suit of 1987 was not just about aesthetics; it was a symbol of upward mobility and professional achievement. According to an article in GQ, the suits were often paired with bold accessories such as statement ties, suspenders, and luxury watches to further enhance the image of success. The choice of fabric and color also played a crucial role, with dark, solid colors like navy, charcoal gray, and black being preferred for their authoritative appeal. This trend was significantly influenced by the financial boom of the 1980s, where appearances were closely linked to perceived competence and success.
2.1. Key Elements of Power Dressing in 1987
- Broad Shoulders: Padded shoulders created a V-shaped torso, emphasizing masculinity and strength.
- Structured Silhouette: Tailored lines and a fitted waist enhanced the suit’s commanding presence.
- High-Quality Fabrics: Wool, tweed, and other premium materials were used to convey luxury and status.
- Bold Accessories: Statement ties, suspenders, and luxury watches completed the power dressing ensemble.
- Dark Colors: Navy, charcoal gray, and black were preferred for their authoritative appeal.
3. What Was the Influence of Preppy Style on Men’s Fashion in 1987?
The influence of preppy style on men’s fashion in 1987 was significant, offering a more relaxed yet refined alternative to the dominant power dressing trend. Inspired by the traditional Ivy League and Seven Sisters aesthetics, preppy style emphasized classic, clean-cut pieces that conveyed a sense of effortless elegance and understated sophistication. This trend was about embracing timeless styles and conveying a sense of heritage and good taste.
Elaborating, preppy style in 1987 was characterized by its emphasis on quality over ostentation. According to “Seven Sisters Style” by Rebecca C. Tuite, preppy fashion was about understated appreciation of good, classic style. Key elements included chinos, polo shirts, Oxford button-down shirts, argyle sweaters, and loafers. The color palette typically consisted of muted tones, such as navy, khaki, and pastel shades, reflecting a sense of understated elegance. This style was particularly popular among college students and young professionals who sought a polished yet comfortable look that was suitable for both casual and semi-formal occasions.
3.1. Core Components of Preppy Style in 1987
- Chinos: Versatile and comfortable, chinos were a staple of the preppy wardrobe.
- Polo Shirts: Often worn with popped collars, polo shirts added a touch of sporty sophistication.
- Oxford Button-Down Shirts: Classic and timeless, Oxford shirts were essential for a polished look.
- Argyle Sweaters: These patterned sweaters added visual interest and a touch of heritage.
- Loafers: Comfortable and stylish, loafers were the footwear of choice for preppy enthusiasts.
4. How Did Sportswear Influence Men’s Fashion in 1987?
Sportswear significantly influenced men’s fashion in 1987, with elements like tracksuits, sneakers, and athletic-inspired outerwear being integrated into everyday wear. This trend reflected a growing emphasis on fitness and an active lifestyle, as well as a desire for comfortable and functional clothing that could be worn both in and out of the gym. Sportswear provided a relaxed and youthful alternative to the more formal styles that dominated the era.
More specifically, the integration of sportswear into mainstream men’s fashion was driven by both practicality and style. Athletic brands like Nike, Adidas, and Reebok became increasingly popular, with their sneakers and tracksuits becoming must-have items. According to Esquire magazine, this trend was further fueled by the rise of aerobics and jogging as popular fitness activities, leading to a greater acceptance of athletic-inspired clothing in everyday settings. The combination of sportswear with more traditional pieces, such as blazers and chinos, created a unique and contemporary look that appealed to a wide range of men.
4.1. Key Sportswear Elements in 1987 Men’s Fashion
- Tracksuits: Worn as casual outfits or separates, tracksuits provided comfort and style.
- Sneakers: Athletic shoes became a fashionable alternative to dress shoes, adding a sporty edge.
- Athletic-Inspired Outerwear: Windbreakers and bomber jackets were incorporated into everyday looks.
- Fitness-Driven Aesthetics: Clothing emphasized functionality and ease of movement.
- Brand Influence: Popular athletic brands played a significant role in shaping sportswear trends.
5. What Role Did Bold Colors and Patterns Play in 1987 Men’s Fashion?
Bold colors and patterns played a crucial role in 1987 men’s fashion, adding flair and individuality to outfits that often contrasted with the more conservative styles of the time. Bright hues such as neon pink, electric blue, and vibrant yellow, along with geometric patterns like stripes, polka dots, and abstract designs, were used to make statements and express personality. This trend allowed men to break away from traditional norms and embrace more adventurous and expressive styles.
Expanding on this, the use of bold colors and patterns in 1987 was a reflection of the decade’s overall exuberance and optimism. According to a study by the Fashion Institute of Technology, these elements were often incorporated into both casual and formal wear, with brightly colored shirts, patterned ties, and boldly designed sweaters becoming popular choices. The trend was also influenced by the rise of pop culture and music, with artists like Prince and David Bowie popularizing unconventional and flamboyant styles. This embrace of color and pattern allowed men to showcase their individuality and creativity through their clothing.
5.1. Examples of Bold Colors and Patterns in 1987
- Neon Colors: Bright hues like neon pink, electric blue, and vibrant yellow were popular choices.
- Geometric Patterns: Stripes, polka dots, and abstract designs added visual interest to outfits.
- Color Blocking: Combining contrasting colors in bold blocks created striking looks.
- Pattern Mixing: Experimenting with different patterns added depth and complexity to ensembles.
- Statement Accessories: Brightly colored ties, socks, and pocket squares provided pops of color.
6. How Significant Was Denim in 1987 Men’s Fashion?
Denim was highly significant in 1987 men’s fashion, serving as a versatile and essential component of casual wear. Jeans, denim jackets, and denim shirts were ubiquitous, providing a durable and stylish option for everyday activities. Denim’s popularity reflected its comfort, practicality, and ability to be dressed up or down, making it a staple in wardrobes across various social groups.
More specifically, denim’s prominence in 1987 was rooted in its long-standing association with American culture and its adaptability to different styles. According to Levi Strauss & Co. archives, denim jeans had evolved from workwear to a fashion staple by the 1980s, with various washes, cuts, and styles available to suit different preferences. Denim jackets were often paired with jeans for a casual, coordinated look, or worn over shirts and sweaters for added warmth and style. The versatility of denim allowed men to create a range of outfits, from rugged and outdoorsy to more polished and urban.
6.1. Key Denim Styles in 1987
- Classic Jeans: Straight-leg jeans in various washes were a wardrobe staple.
- Denim Jackets: Versatile and stylish, denim jackets were worn in numerous ways.
- Denim Shirts: Often paired with jeans for a coordinated look, denim shirts added a casual touch.
- Acid Wash Denim: This distressed style was a popular and edgy choice.
- Colored Denim: Jeans in non-traditional colors like black, gray, and even red were also fashionable.
7. What Were the Prominent Hairstyles for Men in 1987?
Prominent hairstyles for men in 1987 reflected the decade’s overall trend of volume and styling, with variations ranging from neatly coiffed to deliberately tousled. The most popular styles included voluminous cuts with feathered layers, often achieved with mousse and hairspray, and the ubiquitous mullet, which combined short hair in the front and sides with long hair in the back. These hairstyles were about making a statement and projecting confidence.
Elaborating on this, hairstyles in 1987 were influenced by celebrities and pop culture icons who embraced bold and distinctive looks. According to hairstyling historian Janet Stephens, the use of styling products like hairspray and mousse allowed men to achieve voluminous and sculpted styles that held their shape throughout the day. The mullet, in particular, became a symbol of the era, popularized by musicians and athletes. While not universally admired, it represented a rebellious and unconventional approach to men’s grooming. The diversity of hairstyles reflected the broader trend of individual expression and experimentation that characterized the 1980s.
7.1. Popular Hairstyles for Men in 1987
- Voluminous Cuts: Feathered layers and ample volume were achieved with styling products.
- The Mullet: Short hair in the front and sides combined with long hair in the back.
- Jheri Curl: A heavily permed style that created loose, glossy curls.
- Spiked Hair: Often achieved with gel or hairspray, spiked hair added an edgy touch.
- Neat and Coiffed: For more conservative looks, hair was neatly styled and combed.
8. What Types of Accessories Were Common for Men in 1987?
Common accessories for men in 1987 added personality and flair to outfits, reflecting the decade’s bold and expressive style. Key accessories included statement ties, often featuring bold colors and patterns, suspenders, which were both functional and fashionable, and luxury watches, which conveyed status and success. These accessories were used to enhance outfits and make a statement.
In detail, accessories in 1987 were about more than just functionality; they were about making a statement and expressing individuality. According to fashion historian Kimberly Chrisman-Campbell, the choice of accessories often reflected a desire to project confidence and success. Statement ties were a particularly popular way to add color and personality to suits, while suspenders provided a stylish alternative to belts. Luxury watches, often worn as status symbols, were seen as essential for professionals. The use of accessories allowed men to personalize their looks and showcase their unique style.
8.1. Popular Accessories for Men in 1987
- Statement Ties: Bold colors and patterns added personality to suits.
- Suspenders: Both functional and fashionable, suspenders were a stylish alternative to belts.
- Luxury Watches: Conveyed status and success, often worn as status symbols.
- Sunglasses: Stylish and functional, sunglasses were a must-have accessory.
- Pocket Squares: Added a touch of elegance to formal outfits.
9. How Did Music and Pop Culture Influence Men’s Fashion in 1987?
Music and pop culture significantly influenced men’s fashion in 1987, with trends often mirroring the styles of popular musicians, actors, and cultural icons. Artists like Michael Jackson, Prince, and members of bands like Duran Duran set trends with their distinctive looks, which were widely emulated by fans. Movies and television shows also played a crucial role in shaping fashion trends, with characters’ outfits often becoming style benchmarks.
Specifically, the influence of music and pop culture in 1987 was driven by the increasing accessibility of media and the growing importance of celebrity culture. According to cultural studies scholar Douglas Kellner, the styles of music icons were heavily promoted through music videos, magazines, and television, making them easily accessible to a wide audience. Michael Jackson’s signature style, including sequined jackets and leather pants, had a profound impact on men’s fashion, while Prince’s flamboyant and androgynous looks challenged traditional gender norms. Movies like “Top Gun” and “Miami Vice” also popularized specific styles, such as bomber jackets and pastel-colored suits.
9.1. Examples of Music and Pop Culture Influence
- Michael Jackson: Sequined jackets, leather pants, and a single glove became iconic.
- Prince: Flamboyant and androgynous looks challenged traditional norms.
- Duran Duran: New Romantic style with ruffled shirts and tailored jackets.
- “Top Gun”: Bomber jackets and aviator sunglasses became popular.
- “Miami Vice”: Pastel-colored suits and rolled-up sleeves defined the show’s style.
10. How Can You Incorporate 1987 Fashion Trends into Your Modern Wardrobe?
You can incorporate 1987 fashion trends into your modern wardrobe by blending iconic elements of the era with contemporary pieces. Start by integrating power dressing elements like structured blazers and tailored trousers into your professional attire. Introduce preppy styles such as chinos and polo shirts for a smart-casual look, or add sportswear-inspired items like track jackets and sneakers for a relaxed yet stylish vibe. Experiment with bold colors and patterns, using them as accents in your accessories or statement pieces.
To elaborate, successfully integrating 1987 trends into your modern wardrobe requires a thoughtful approach that balances nostalgia with contemporary sensibilities. According to fashion stylist and consultant Emily Henderson, the key is to select specific elements that resonate with your personal style and adapt them to fit your current wardrobe. For example, you might pair a vintage-inspired blazer with modern jeans and sneakers, or add a pop of neon color to a neutral outfit with a statement accessory. The goal is to create a look that is both fashionable and authentic, paying homage to the past while remaining firmly rooted in the present.
10.1. Tips for Modernizing 1987 Fashion Trends
- Balance Proportions: Update oversized silhouettes with more tailored pieces for a modern look.
- Mix and Match: Combine vintage-inspired items with contemporary pieces for a unique style.
- Focus on Quality: Invest in high-quality fabrics and well-constructed garments for a polished appearance.
- Accessorize Wisely: Use accessories to add subtle nods to the 1980s without overwhelming your outfit.
- Stay True to Your Style: Choose trends that complement your personal aesthetic and make you feel confident.
Ready to elevate your style with a touch of 1987 flair? Explore mens-fashion.net for more in-depth articles, style guides, and outfit ideas. Discover how to incorporate these iconic trends into your modern wardrobe and express your unique personality through fashion. Visit our website or contact us at +1 (212) 217-5800 to learn more.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About 1987 Fashion
1. What was the most popular color in 1987?
Neon colors were particularly popular in 1987, with bright hues like neon pink, electric blue, and vibrant yellow being widely used in clothing and accessories.
2. What were the key characteristics of 1980s fashion?
Key characteristics of 1980s fashion included power dressing, bold colors and patterns, sportswear influence, and the use of accessories to make a statement.
3. How did men’s fashion in 1987 differ from previous decades?
Men’s fashion in 1987 differed from previous decades by its emphasis on bold colors, structured silhouettes, and the integration of sportswear into everyday wear.
4. What were some iconic movies that influenced 1987 fashion?
Movies like “Top Gun” and “Miami Vice” had a significant influence on 1987 fashion, popularizing styles such as bomber jackets and pastel-colored suits.
5. How did music artists influence men’s fashion in 1987?
Music artists like Michael Jackson and Prince influenced men’s fashion in 1987 by popularizing distinctive looks that were widely emulated by fans.
6. What is power dressing, and how did it manifest in 1987?
Power dressing is a style characterized by sharp, structured suits designed to project authority and success, and in 1987, it manifested through broad shoulders, strong lines, and high-quality fabrics.
7. What is preppy style, and how was it evident in 1987?
Preppy style is inspired by the traditional Ivy League and Seven Sisters aesthetics, and in 1987, it was evident through classic, clean-cut pieces such as chinos, polo shirts, and argyle sweaters.
8. How did the fitness craze of the 1980s impact men’s fashion in 1987?
The fitness craze of the 1980s led to the integration of sportswear elements like tracksuits and sneakers into everyday wear, influencing men’s fashion in 1987.
9. What types of fabrics were commonly used in men’s clothing in 1987?
Common fabrics used in men’s clothing in 1987 included wool, tweed, denim, and cotton, reflecting the decade’s emphasis on both luxury and practicality.
10. Where can I find more information and inspiration for 1987 fashion trends?
You can find more information and inspiration for 1987 fashion trends on mens-fashion.net, which offers in-depth articles, style guides, and outfit ideas to help you incorporate these iconic trends into your modern wardrobe.
