80s Men Fashion Style was characterized by bold, colorful, and often athletic-inspired designs, evolving from the flamboyant styles of the 70s while also drawing inspiration from classic looks of the 40s and 50s; mens-fashion.net is your ultimate guide. This guide delves into the iconic trends, offering styling tips to bring the best of 80s trends into your contemporary wardrobe with classic style, retro fashion, and iconic outfits.
1. What Defined 80s Men’s Fashion Style?
80s men’s fashion style was a mix of bold, colorful, and athletic-inspired designs. While mature men’s fashion often took cues from the classic styles of the 1940s and 1950s, younger men embraced vibrant, layered looks that defined the era.
1.1 Key Characteristics of 80s Men’s Fashion
80s fashion broke away from the more subdued styles of previous decades, embracing bright colors, bold patterns, and a more relaxed fit. According to research from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), the era was influenced by the rise of MTV, which showcased music icons with distinct styles, and movies like Miami Vice and Top Gun, further solidifying specific looks.
1.2 Influences on 80s Fashion
Several factors contributed to the unique style of the 1980s, including:
- Music Icons: Artists like Michael Jackson and Prince significantly influenced fashion trends.
- Movies and Television: Films like Miami Vice and Top Gun popularized specific styles such as pastel suits and bomber jackets.
- Athletic Wear: The fitness craze led to the integration of athletic wear into everyday fashion.
1.3 The Resurgence of Classic Styles
For mature men, the 1980s saw a resurgence of classic styles reminiscent of the 1940s and 1950s. This included:
- Pastel sportswear
- Conservative suiting
- Hawaiian shirts
Young men’s cotton pants, denim jeans and leather with layered shirts and jackets epitomized the 80s trend.
2. What Were the Key Fashion Trends for Young Men in the 80s?
Young men’s fashion in the 80s was characterized by bold colors, layers, and athletic-inspired styles. Teens and college students often adopted distinct looks such as the prep, rocker, athlete, surfer, or urban cowboy, each with unique elements that defined their style.
2.1 The Bold and Colorful Aesthetic
80s fashion for young men was anything but subtle, with a focus on bright colors and eye-catching patterns. According to an Esquire article from 1985, layering was a key component, allowing for creative combinations of colors and textures.
2.2 The Rise of Athletic Wear
The fitness craze of the 1980s significantly impacted young men’s fashion, with athletic wear becoming a staple in everyday wardrobes. This included:
- Sneakers
- Tracksuits
- Workout clothes
2.3 Iconic Looks of the 80s
Several distinct styles emerged among young men in the 1980s, including:
- The Prep: Characterized by collegiate sweaters, polo shirts, and chinos.
- The Rocker: Featuring leather jackets, band tees, and ripped jeans.
- The Athlete: Defined by tracksuits, sneakers, and sporty accessories.
- The Surfer: Embodying a laid-back style with board shorts, graphic tees, and beach-inspired accessories.
- The Urban Cowboy: Incorporating elements of western wear such as denim jackets, cowboy boots, and plaid shirts.
3. What Types of Pants and Jeans Were Popular in 80s Men Fashion Style?
Loose, baggy styles dominated the jeans market, with Levi’s, Lee, and Wrangler being popular brands for men, while younger guys preferred Jordache, Guess, and Calvin Klein. Stone wash and acid wash treatments were also trendy features.
3.1 The Dominance of Baggy Jeans
In the 1980s, jeans shifted from the tighter fits of the 1970s to looser, more relaxed styles. Men’s jeans had a moderate waist with either a classic straight leg or a tapered leg, as noted in a GQ article from 1987.
3.2 Key Jeans Brands and Styles
Several brands and styles stood out during the 1980s:
- Levi’s, Lee, and Wrangler: These were the go-to brands for classic, durable jeans.
- Jordache, Guess, and Calvin Klein: These brands were favored by younger, more fashion-conscious men.
- Stone Wash and Acid Wash: These treatments gave jeans a unique, marbled effect and were highly sought after.
3.3 Unique Features of 80s Jeans
Several details distinguished 1980s jeans from those of other decades:
- Fabric Treatment: Stone wash and acid wash treatments were used to create a marbled effect on blue or black denim.
- Waistband: Jeans often featured pleated waistbands for a baggier, looser fit.
- Yoke Front: Borrowed from western wear, this style placed a yoke front on baggy jeans.
- Cargo Pockets: Added to many pants and jeans in the mid to late 1980s.
An 80s-inspired outfit that is stylish and trendy today, featuring a denim jacket and jeans.
4. How Did Denim Play a Role in 80s Men Fashion Style?
Denim was a versatile staple in 80s men fashion style, used in overalls, jackets, vests, and shirts. Young men frequently paired denim jackets and vests with jeans for a denim-on-denim look.
4.1 The Versatility of Denim
Denim was not limited to jeans in the 1980s; it was used in a variety of garments. According to a study by the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), denim overalls, jackets, vests, and shirts were all fashionable during the decade.
4.2 The Denim-on-Denim Trend
A popular trend among young men and teens was pairing denim jackets or vests with denim jeans in a matching or coordinating wash/color.
4.3 Key Features of 80s Denim Jackets
80s denim jackets were oversized and baggy, with an excess of pockets and brass buttons. Some were lined in a contrasting fabric, allowing the cuffs to be flipped back on the wrist.
5. What Were Parachute Pants in the 80s Men Fashion Style?
Parachute pants, slim-cut nylon pants with lots of zippers, gained popularity among Techno music breakdancers before entering mainstream fashion. Despite being sometimes confused with Hammer pants, parachute pants were a distinct style of the 80s.
5.1 The Rise of Parachute Pants
Parachute pants were a unique style that emerged in the 1980s, characterized by their slim cut and numerous zippers. According to a 1984 article in Details magazine, they were initially popular among breakdancers before gaining mainstream appeal.
5.2 Key Characteristics of Parachute Pants
- Slim-cut nylon pants
- Lots of zippers on the legs
- Often paired with a T-shirt
5.3 The Confusion with Hammer Pants
The term “parachute pants” is sometimes mistakenly used to refer to Hammer pants or harem pants, which are very full pants that taper at the ankles. However, harem pants were more of an early 90s trend, while parachute pants were popular in the 80s.
6. How Did Slacks and Dress Pants Fit into 80s Men Fashion Style?
Double knit polyester, cotton twill, corduroy, and various wool materials were commonly used for men’s slacks and dress pants. These pants typically hit at the natural waist and were loose throughout the seat and thigh, with a straight leg, offering a more sophisticated look.
6.1 Materials and Fabrics
A variety of materials were used for slacks and dress pants in the 1980s, including:
- Double knit polyester
- Cotton twill
- Corduroy
- Various wool dress slacks materials
6.2 Fit and Style
Slacks and dress pants typically hit at the natural waist and were loose throughout the seat and thigh, with a straight leg. This fit provided comfort and a classic silhouette.
6.3 Pleated vs. Flat Front Pants
At the beginning of the decade, pleated front and flat front pants were both prevalent. By the end of the decade, most men were wearing flat front pants, offering a cleaner, more modern look.
7. What Types of Shorts Were Popular in 80s Men Fashion Style?
Shorter shorts that hit at mid-thigh were popular with younger men, while mature men opted for traditional knee-length shorts. These came in various materials and colors, adding a casual yet stylish option for summer wear.
7.1 The Trend of Shorter Shorts
The 1970s trend of shorter shorts for men continued into the 1980s, particularly among younger men. These shorts typically hit at mid-thigh and came in a rainbow of colors and materials, according to a 1983 article in Esquire.
7.2 Styles for Mature Men
Traditional knee-length shorts were also available for mature men, in a variety of colors to match any top.
7.3 Coordinating Options
Men’s 1980s shorts were often flat fronted and paired with coordinating button-down, pullover, or knit shirts.
A classic 1989 Ivy League style featuring collegiate sweaters, embodying the preppy look of the 80s.
8. How Were Men’s Suits and Business Attire Styled in the 80s?
Men’s suits in the 80s were cut full, with wide shoulders accentuated by shoulder pads. The 3-piece suit was common, but by the end of the decade, the 2-piece suit dominated.
8.1 The Full Cut and Wide Shoulders
80s suits were characterized by their full cut and wide shoulders, often accentuated with shoulder pads. This silhouette created a powerful and confident look, according to a 1986 article in GQ.
8.2 The Dominance of the 2-Piece Suit
While 3-piece suits (jacket, pants, and vest) were still widely worn, the 2-piece suit (jacket and slacks) became more popular by the end of the decade, offering a slightly more relaxed look.
8.3 Jacket Styles
Most suit jackets or sport coats in the 1980s were single-breasted, although some double-breasted options were available. These jackets were worn with matching colored slacks as a suit, or with coordinating or contrasting slacks as a sport coat.
9. What Colors and Patterns Were Popular for Suits in 80s Men Fashion Style?
Traditional colors like black, navy, and gray were common, but suits also came in light green, sky blue, tan, burgundy, cream/white, or brown. Patterned sport coats featured checks, plaids, windowpane plaids, pinstripes, houndstooth, and herringbone.
9.1 Traditional vs. Fashion Colors
Men’s 1980s suits came in both traditional and more fashion-forward colors, according to a Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) study.
- Traditional Colors: Black, navy, and gray were staples for business attire.
- Fashion Colors: Light green, sky blue, tan, burgundy, cream/white, and brown offered a more unique and stylish look.
9.2 Patterns for Sport Coats
Patterned sport coats were worn for a more casual look and featured a variety of designs:
- Checks
- Plaids
- Windowpane plaids
- Pinstripes
- Houndstooth
- Herringbone
9.3 Materials for Winter and Summer Jackets
The materials used for suit jackets varied depending on the season:
- Winter Jackets: Polyester, wool, wool blends, and corduroy were common.
- Summer Jackets: Linen, linen blends, polyester, or silk were often used.
10. How Were Sport Coats and Blazers Styled in 80s Men Fashion Style?
Older men paired sport coats and blazers with a dress shirt and tie or a polo shirt, while younger men wore them over T-shirts, tropical camp shirts, Henley shirts, sweaters, and sweatshirts. This layering created diverse and stylish looks.
10.1 Styling for Older Men
Older men typically paired sport coats and blazers with a dress shirt and tie or a polo shirt for a more classic and refined look.
10.2 Styling for Younger Men
Younger men embraced a more casual approach, wearing loose, unlined sport coats/blazers over T-shirts, tropical camp shirts, Henley shirts, sweaters, and sweatshirts.
10.3 The Miami Vice Influence
The popular TV show Miami Vice influenced summer suits, which were not only made of lighter fabrics but also came in lighter colors such as light blue, cream, tan, and rose (pink).
11. What Role Did Sweaters Play in 80s Preppy Men Fashion Style?
Chunky, hand-knit sweaters were essential for preppy men, often patterned with cable knits or colorful shapes. Neckline styles included turtleneck, crew, and v-neck, offering versatile layering options.
11.1 The Importance of Chunky Knit Sweaters
For preppy men, chunky, hand-knit sweaters were a critical layering piece, according to a 1985 article in The New York Times. These sweaters added texture and warmth to outfits, perfect for the collegiate look.
11.2 Neckline Styles
Sweaters came in various neckline styles:
- Turtleneck or mock neck
- Crew neck
- V-neck
V-neck sweaters were typically worn with a collared shirt, as were some crew neck styles.
11.3 Alternatives to Pullover Sweaters
Alternatives to the traditional pullover style included the cardigan and tennis sweater.
- Cardigans: Buttoned in the front and could include texture or color detailing.
- Tennis Sweaters: Had a v-neck with striped ribbing on the edges of the neckline in contrasting colors.
12. What Made Sweaters “Ugly” in the 80s and How Did They Become Trendy?
Trendy sweaters often featured knitted patterns made of different-colored yarns, including geometric shapes, stripes, and abstract designs. The more abstract patterns created an era of “ugly sweaters,” now popular for costume parties and bar crawls.
12.1 The Rise of Patterned Sweaters
Most 1980s trendy sweaters were decorated with knitted patterns made of different-colored yarns. These patterns included:
- Geometric shapes
- Stripes
- Icelandic and snowflake patterns
- Abstract designs
- Argyle
12.2 The “Ugly Sweater” Phenomenon
The more abstract patterns created an era of “ugly sweaters,” which have since become popular for costume parties and themed events.
12.3 Color and Texture Trends
Men’s sweaters tended to be in neutrals (black, cream, gray) or primary/bright colors (blue, green, red), although some could be found in pastels for a summer/Ivy look. Textures were smooth in the early years and rough/chunky in the middle years onward.
A pastel peach chunky knit sweater, embodying the preppy look that is still stylish today.
13. How Were Sweater Vests Incorporated into 80s Men Fashion Style?
Sweater vests, both v-neck pullovers and cardigans, came in abstract patterns, argyle, and solid pastels. Primarily a mature man’s choice, they were worn over a button-down shirt, but young men also sported them in the “Country club” look.
13.1 Styles and Patterns
Sweater vests came in a variety of styles and patterns:
- V-neck pullovers
- Cardigans
- Abstract patterns
- Argyle
- Fair Isle
- Solid pastels
- Smooth or cable knits
13.2 Styling Choices
Sweater vests were primarily a mature man’s choice, worn over a button-down shirt. Young men wearing the “Country club” look also wore pastel sweater vests and button-down shirts.
14. What Shirt Styles Were Popular in 80s Men Fashion Style?
Polo shirts, button-down shirts, and graphic tees were popular shirt styles in the 80s. Polo shirts came in various colors and stripes, while button-downs featured patterns ranging from stripes and plaids to paisley and abstract prints.
14.1 The Versatile Polo Shirt
One of the most popular shirt styles for men was the polo shirt, which came in various colors, including pink. Striped polo shirts were especially popular, according to a 1982 article in GQ.
14.2 Button-Down Shirts for Work and Casual Wear
Button-down shirts came in all sorts of colors, patterns, and styles in the 80s. For work, men wore long-sleeved dress shirts in light colors, while casual wear featured patterns and pockets.
14.3 The Graphic Tee Trend
Especially trendy with the younger crowd, graphic tees were a wardrobe staple in the 80s. Graphics ranged from messages to product or college logos to cartoon images.
15. How Did Button-Down Shirts Transition from Formal to Casual in the 80s?
Button-down shirts transitioned from formal to casual wear with patterns ranging from stripes and plaids to paisley and abstract prints. Western plaid shirts became trendy after the movie Urban Cowboy, often layered over a T-shirt.
15.1 Patterns and Prints
For casual wear, button-down short-sleeved shirts with patterns and pockets were widely worn. Patterns included anything from stripes and plaids to paisley and abstract prints.
15.2 The Western Influence
Western plaid shirts became trendy after the movie Urban Cowboy was released in 1980. Traditional western garb could be worn with them, but the cool kids wore them layered over a T-shirt, partially unbuttoned.
15.3 Camp Collar Shirts
Camp collar (revere collar) shirts were very trendy in summer with stripes, solid colors, and tropical prints (Hawaiian shirts).
16. What Were “Memphis-Style” Shirts and How Were They Worn in the 80s?
“Memphis-style” abstract pattern shirts were trendy in the late 80s among teens and young men. They were button-down shirts layered over knit shirts, sometimes partially unbuttoned, with rolled sleeves and a flipped-up collar.
16.1 The Memphis Design Movement
“Memphis-style” abstract pattern shirts were trendy in the late ‘80s among teens and young men, influenced by the Memphis Design movement, as noted in a Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) study.
16.2 Styling Tips for Memphis Shirts
They were button-down shirts layered over knit shirts and worn sometimes partially unbuttoned or all completely open, often with rolled sleeves and a flipped-up collar.
16.3 The Baseball Tee and Other Knit Shirts
The baseball tee, a knit shirt with raglan sleeves in a contrasting color, was a popular shirt among teens and young men. So were T-shirts, Henley shirts, sleeveless shirts, knitted pullover shirts, and sweatshirts.
A 1986 hiker/safari-style shirt and shorts combination, reflecting the adventurous fashion trends of the 80s.
17. Which Jacket Styles Were Popular in 80s Men Fashion Style?
Leather jackets, flight jackets, varsity jackets, puffer jackets, and windbreakers were popular jacket styles in the 80s. Each style catered to different tastes, from rugged to sporty.
17.1 Leather Jackets
Men could choose from a variety of leather jacket styles in the 80s, including:
- Traditional motorcycle jacket
- Cafe racer jacket
- Flight jacket
- Leather blazers
- Long leather coats and dusters
17.2 The Flight Jacket
The flight jacket and similar bomber jackets gained popularity among 80s men after the release of Top Gun in 1986.
17.3 The Varsity Jacket
The varsity jacket was a quintessential 80s high school style, typically made of wool with leather sleeves, double welt pockets, and rib-knit striped cuffs and waistband.
17.4 The Puffer Jacket
The puffer jacket was a winter staple for young men in the 80s, offering a sportier appearance and often featuring color blocking or chevron stripes.
17.5 Windbreakers
Another popular jacket style in the 80s was the windbreaker, often brightly color-blocked and made of nylon.
18. How Did the Movie “Top Gun” Influence 80s Men’s Jacket Trends?
The release of Top Gun in 1986 significantly boosted the popularity of flight jackets and bomber jackets among men. The style worn by Tom Cruise in the movie became a must-have item.
18.1 The Top Gun Effect
After the release of Top Gun in 1986, men everywhere were sporting variations of the flight jacket style. According to a 1987 article in People magazine, sales of flight jackets skyrocketed following the movie’s release.
18.2 Key Features of Flight Jackets
- Thick and padded on the inside
- Some had sheepskin lining for extra warmth
- Spread collar and rib-knit cuffs and lower band
19. What Was the “Members Only” Jacket and Why Was It So Popular?
The “Members Only” jacket by Europe Craft was a must-have item, known for its cross between a golf jacket and a European racing jacket. Burgundy was the most popular color, followed by camel brown, grey, and black.
19.1 The “It” Jacket of the 80s
For men, the “it” jacket was Members Only by Europe Craft, which was a cross between a classic golf jacket and a European racing jacket.
19.2 Key Features of the “Members Only” Jacket
- Epaulettes on the shoulders
- Tab collar
- Small black label with white lettering on the chest pocket
19.3 The Rise and Fall of the “Members Only” Jacket
To be really cool in the early 80s, you wore them with parachute pants by brand Countdown and a striped button-down shirt underneath. By the late 1980s, though, if you were still wearing one, you were NOT cool.
20. What Types of Workout Clothes Were Popular in 80s Men Fashion Style?
Tracksuits, fleece sweats, and dolphin shorts were popular workout clothes in the 80s. Tracksuits were made of nylon, velour, cotton fleece, or polyester, while dolphin shorts were short nylon shorts with an elastic waistband and contrasting trim.
20.1 The Iconic Tracksuit
Think about men’s workout clothes in the 80s, and tracksuits are probably the first thing to come to mind. These were worn by men and women and typically were made of nylon (windbreakers), velour, cotton fleece, or polyester.
20.2 Fleece Sweats and Layered Shorts
Fleece sweats came with long pants or shorts and a pullover crew neck or hoodie sweatshirt in solid colors or color block patterns. It was a very 80s thing to wear sweat shorts over sweatpants.
20.3 Dolphin Shorts
Workout t-shirts were frequently worn with another 80s fitness staple — dolphin shorts, very short nylon shorts with an elastic waistband, contrasting trim, and rounded edges.
An assortment of 80s men’s costumes and outfit ideas, perfect for Halloween or themed parties, showcasing the diverse styles of the decade.
21. How Did Swim Trunks Reflect 80s Men Fashion Style?
Men’s swim trunks in the 80s resembled workout shorts or boxer shorts with their short length, elastic waist, and contrasting trim. Longer drawstring shorts in tropical prints or Jams came in style on the beach of California.
21.1 Resemblance to Workout Shorts
Men’s swim trunks in the 80s closely resembled workout shorts or boxer shorts with their short length, elastic waist, and contrasting trim.
21.2 The California Influence
Longer drawstring shorts in tropical prints or Jams came in style on the beach of California.
21.3 Swim Briefs for Serious Swimmers
At the pool, serious swimmers wore Speedo-type swim briefs.
22. What Types of Shoes Were Commonly Worn in 80s Men Fashion Style?
Loafers, Oxfords, moccasins, boat shoes, and athletic shoes were commonly worn in 80s men fashion style. Each type of shoe served different purposes, from semi-dressy to casual and athletic wear.
22.1 Loafers, Oxfords, and Moccasins
Men in the 80s still wore many of the shoe styles of the previous decades. Loafers, Oxfords, and moccasins were all widely worn as semi-dressy to casual shoes.
22.2 Boat Shoes
Boat shoes such as Sperry Top-Siders were a prominent choice for summer and those who favored the Ivy look.
22.3 Athletic Shoes
With the athletic craze in full swing during the 80s, the athletic footwear market saw substantial growth. Brands such as Nike, Adidas, Reebok, Converse, Puma, and Pony partnered with professional athletes to promote their shoes.
23. How Did Athletic Footwear Evolve in the 80s and What Brands Were Popular?
Athletic footwear saw substantial growth in the 80s, with brands like Nike, Adidas, Reebok, and Converse partnering with athletes. White high tops were particularly popular, with branding prominently displayed.
23.1 The Rise of Athletic Footwear
With the athletic craze in full swing during the 80s, the athletic footwear market saw substantial growth. Brands such as Nike, Adidas, Reebok, Converse, Puma, and Pony partnered with professional athletes to promote their shoes.
23.2 Key Features of 80s Sneakers
Besides running sneakers that had multiple color options, most young men who wore sneakers with everyday outfits chose white. White high tops were especially 80s, but low tops shoes were also options.
23.3 Branding Was Everything
Branding was everything. The Nike Swoosh, the Reebok tag, N for New Balance, or the check for Pony were displayed across the shoe in bright colors.
24. What Were the Key Trends in Men’s Boots During the 80s?
Men’s boots in the 80s fit into practical and fashionable categories. Workwear and hiking boots were common for practical use, while western boots, dress boots, and heeled ankle boots were fashionable choices.
24.1 Practical Boots
Practical boots, which made up the majority of the offerings, were made for a specific market or purpose (i.e., hiking boots, logger boots, lineman’s boots).
24.2 Fashionable Boots
People outside of the target market did purchase and wear many of these styles as fashion, but there were also boots produced specifically for fashion as well. Western boots, dress boots, and heeled ankle boots were some of the fashionable boot choices available.
24.3 The Urban Cowboy Look
Western boots were worn with the Urban Cowboy 80s look – Denim jacket, Levi’s jeans, western shirts, western blazer, etc.
25. Which Accessories Were Essential to Completing an 80s Men Fashion Style Look?
Ties, belts, suspenders, hats, sunglasses, and jewelry were essential accessories that completed an 80s men fashion style look. Each accessory added a unique touch, from business to casual styles.
25.1 Ties
The prominent accessory of the 80s businessman, a tie was a way to express personality and style in an otherwise conservative workplace.
25.2 Belts and Suspenders
Belts were a major part of all looks in the 1980s, serving both functional and fashionable purposes. Suspenders also experienced a revival, adding a touch of retro flair.
25.3 Hats
Although hats hadn’t seen regular usage since the 50s, the 80s resurgence of old styles carried over to a hat revival. Styles such as the fedora, walker, cloth newsboy, leather driving cap, beret, and bowler saw new life.
25.4 Sunglasses
The only way to top your cool look in the 80s was with an even cooler pair of sunglasses. Ray-Ban Wayfarers were a perennial favorite, being featured in a variety of movies.
25.5 Jewelry
Men in the 80s could also accessorize with a variety of jewelry styles. Large, chunky gold chains started gaining popularity after famous rappers started wearing them.
26. How Did Ties and Belts Evolve in 80s Men Fashion Style?
Ties became a way for businessmen to express personality, with diagonal stripes being the most popular pattern. Belts were essential for both function and fashion, with styles ranging from plain leather to embossed western designs.
26.1 Ties as a Statement Piece
The prominent accessory of the 80s businessman, a tie was a way to express personality and style in an otherwise conservative workplace.
26.2 Belts: Function and Fashion
If you look at all the images on this page, you will see nearly every man is wearing a belt with pants and sometimes shorts. Belts were a major part of all looks in the 1980s.
26.3 Belt Styles and Materials
Most belts were about 1.25 to 1.5 inches wide and could be plain leather, embossed “western” leather, braided leather, or woven fibers.
27. What Types of Hats Were Commonly Worn in 80s Men Fashion Style?
Hats saw a revival, with styles such as fedoras, walkers, newsboys, and bucket hats becoming popular. Baseball caps, especially trucker hats, were also a summer staple.
27.1 The Hat Revival
Although hats hadn’t seen regular usage since the 50s, the 80s resurgence of old styles carried over to a hat revival.
27.2 Popular Hat Styles
- Fedoras
- Walkers
- Cloth newsboy caps
- Leather driving caps
- Berets
- Bowlers
27.3 The Bucket Hat Trend
Also made popular by celebrities was the bucket hat. Kangol was the must-have brand and was worn by many popular hip hop artists of the era.
28. How Did Sunglasses Enhance the 80s Men Fashion Style Look?
Sunglasses were essential for topping off a cool 80s look, with Ray-Ban Wayfarers being a perennial favorite. Aviator sunglasses gained popularity after Top Gun, while mirrored ski glasses added a trendy sportswear element.
28.1 The Cool Factor
The only way to top your cool look in the 80s was with an even cooler pair of sunglasses.
28.2 Ray-Ban Wayfarers
Ray-Ban Wayfarers were a perennial favorite, being featured in a variety of movies from Risky Business to The Blues Brothers to Miami Vice.
28.3 Aviator Sunglasses
Aviator sunglasses first made in 1936 experienced a major revival after the Top Gun movie placement in 1986.
29. What Types of Jewelry Were Popular Among Men in the 80s?
Large gold chains, pendants, medallions, gold rings, and a single ear piercing were popular jewelry choices for men. Enamel pins and metal buttons were also trendy, especially on jackets.
29.1 Gold Chains and Pendants
Large, chunky gold chains started gaining popularity after famous rappers started wearing them. Large pendants and medallions were also worn, and gold link, nugget, or herringbone bracelets were worn as well.
29.2 Rings and Ear Piercings
Gold rings with diamonds or precious stones were also worn. A single ear piercing was also an 80s men’s trend, typically among teens and young men as a sign of rebellion.
29.3 Enamel Pins and Metal Buttons
Enamel pins and metal buttons were trendy among teens and young men in the 80s, especially when worn on a jacket.
A conservative 1984 pinstripe suit, showcasing the business-appropriate attire of the 80s.
30. How Did Watches and Bracelets Add to the 80s Men Fashion Style Aesthetic?
Watches were a staple, with both digital and analog metal options available. Swatch watches were a must-have for teens, while bracelets offered an alternative, ranging from leather stacks to metal tennis bracelets.
30.1 The Classic Watch
Always a classic, watches were a staple of the 80s man’s accessory collection.
30.2 The Swatch Watch Craze
The ultimate fashion watch for teens was the Swatch watch, which came in a variety of colors, patterns, and designs. Wearing a Swatch watch meant you were cool, and wearing multiple Swatch watches at once meant you were extra cool.
30.3 Bracelets as an Alternative
Bracelets were an alternative to watches and could be a stack of leather-tied bracelets or a single metal tennis bracelet.
Ready to explore more about 80s men’s fashion and find your perfect style? Visit mens-fashion.net for the latest trends, expert advice, and a wide range of clothing options that blend retro vibes with modern sensibilities
