Fashion trends often come and go, but the 80s truly left an indelible mark on the world of style. While some fashion faux pas from that era deserve to remain forgotten, there are a few iconic trends that secretly tempt us with their boldness and quirkiness. Here are 9 fashion faux pas of the 80s that we secretly want to bring back.
1. Shoulder Pads: Power dressing was at its peak in the 80s, and nothing says confidence like exaggerated shoulder pads. These structured additions to blazers and dresses instantly added authority and defined a strong silhouette.
2. Neon Colors: The streets of the 80s resembled a fluorescent rainbow, as neon colors took center stage. From vibrant pinks to electric greens, these bold hues brought life to any outfit and made a statement wherever you went.
3. Acid Wash Jeans: Denim took on a whole new look with the advent of acid wash jeans. Their bleached and tie-dyed appearance gave off a rebellious vibe, instantly adding an edgy touch to any outfit.
4. Leg Warmers: Inspired by dancers and fitness enthusiasts, leg warmers became a fashion staple in the 80s. These cozy accessories added a touch of athleticism to your ensemble, whether you were hitting the gym or simply running errands.
5. Fanny Packs: Once considered strictly utilitarian, fanny packs found a fashion foothold in the 80s. These waist-hugging bags provided a convenient way to carry your essentials while simultaneously adding a sporty and practical accessory to your look.
6. Hypercolor Clothing: Imagine clothes that changed color with body heat – that was the appeal of hypercolor clothing in the 80s. From t-shirts to sweatpants, these items made you feel like a living mood ring, and the idea of color-changing fashion still captivates today.
7. Scrunchies: These innocent hair accessories were all the rage in the 80s, bounding brightly on nearly every ponytail. Their versatility and ability to add a touch of nostalgia to modern hairstyles make them a coveted fashion faux pas to bring back.
8. Jelly Shoes: Made from PVC plastic, jelly shoes were comfortable, waterproof, and incredibly fun. From sandals to flats, these translucent accessories were signature footwear of the 80s, and their playful nature still resonates today.
9. Swatch Watches: Carrying an iconic Swatch watch in the 80s was a fashion statement in itself. These colorful timepieces embraced individuality and self-expression, making them a desirable accessory for anyone wanting to add an extra pop of flair to their wrists.
Now let’s dive into 20 lists of questions and answers to test your knowledge of 80s fashion!
1. What item added authority and boldness to outfits in the 80s?
Answer: Shoulder pads
2. Which colors dominated the fashion scene in the 80s?
Answer: Neon colors
3. What style of jeans had a bleached and tie-dyed appearance?
Answer: Acid wash jeans
4. What accessory provided warmth and an athletic touch to the outfit in the 80s?
Answer: Leg warmers
5. What was the popular way to carry essentials in the 80s?
Answer: Fanny packs
6. What type of clothing changed color with body heat in the 80s?
Answer: Hypercolor clothing
7. What hair accessory was ubiquitous in the 80s, adorning countless ponytails?
Answer: Scrunchies
8. What material were jelly shoes made from?
Answer: PVC plastic
9. What brand of watches became a fashion statement in the 80s?
Answer: Swatch watches
10. What trend defined an era of bold and exaggerated fashion choices in the 80s?
Answer: Power dressing
11. What hairstyle did many women adopt to accompany their shoulder pads?
Answer: Big, voluminous hair
12. Which iconic action movie character popularized the leather jacket trend in the 80s?
Answer: The Terminator (played by Arnold Schwarzenegger)
13. What garment did Madonna make famous with her iconic “Like a Virgin” performance?
Answer: Lace gloves
14. What footwear emerged as a staple of punk fashion in the 80s?
Answer: Doc Martens boots
15. What accessory did Madonna popularize, often worn as outerwear?
Answer: Bustiers
16. What style of pants with a tight fit and zippers gained popularity in the 80s?
Answer: Skinny jeans
17. What trend involved wearing socks over leggings or tights?
Answer: Layering socks
18. What fashion trend involved wearing multiple belts simultaneously?
Answer: Belt layering
19. What iconic aerobic wear brand defined fitness fashion in the 80s?
Answer: Jane Fonda’s Workout brand
20. What oversized accessory was often seen on heads in the 80s?
Answer: Wide-brimmed hats
From iconic fashion faux pas to quirky accessories, the 80s left an unforgettable mark on fashion. While some trends may remain better left in the past, others continue to tempt us with their unique charm. So why not embrace a bit of 80s nostalgia and bring back these fashion faux pas in our modern day wardrobes? After all, a little bit of neon and shoulder pads never hurt anyone!