80s Men's Fashion Still Going Strong
When it comes to men's style, the 1980s were a revolutionary decade. Bold colors, sharp cuts, and iconic trends took over, making 80s men's fashion one of the most unique eras in fashion history.
While some aspects of the 80s have been retired for good reason (neon tracksuits, anyone?), many of the timeless pieces and influences are still relevant today.
In this guide, I'll break down the key elements of 80s men's fashion that can fit seamlessly into your modern wardrobe. From casual wear to formal wear, this is the ultimate guide to bringing the best of the 80s into the 21st century.
Why 80s Fashion for Men Still Works
The enduring appeal of '80s men's fashion lies in its versatility. Many of the decade's trends—structured tailoring, iconic outerwear, and statement accessories—are timeless staples that can be styled in countless ways. By mixing these elements with modern pieces, you can create outfits that are both nostalgic and stylish.
Incorporating '80s style into your wardrobe doesn't mean dressing up like you're attending a masquerade. It's about understanding the principles of the decade—boldness, confidence, and attention to detail—and putting them to work for your outfit today.
So whether you want to upgrade your office attire with a suit, elevate your weekend style with a leather jacket, or add a touch of retro glamour with accessories, the '80s have plenty to offer.
80s Fashion For Men: Power Suits
The 1980s was the era of power dressing, especially in professional settings.
Businessmen sought to project authority, which meant sharp shoulders, good structure, wide lapels, and a demure fit. Think Gordon Gekko in Wall Street or Richard Gere in American Gigolo.
How to Wear It Today:
While oversized shoulders may feel dated, a modernized suit can work wonders. Look for a tailored suit with structured shoulders, but make sure it’s fitted to create a modern silhouette.
Stick with classic colors like charcoal, navy, or black, and add subtle pinstripe for a true nod to 80s men’s fashion.
80s Fashion For Men: The Leather Jacket
Leather jackets have been a staple in men’s wardrobes for decades, but the 80s gave them a rebellious edge.
From Michael Jackson’s red leather in Thriller to Tom Cruise’s bomber jacket in Top Gun, it’s a must-have for men who want to make a bold statement.
How to Wear It Today:
A classic black moto jacket or a sleek brown bomber jacket will channel the 80s vibe without looking dated. Pair with slim-fit jeans and a plain white tee for a timeless weekend look.
80s Fashion For Men: Pants And Jackets
How to Wear It Today:
Avoid overly baggy styles and go for slim or straight-leg pants for a cleaner look. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a modern take on the double denim trend by mixing different shades together, like a light-wash jacket with dark-wash jeans.
80s Fashion For Men: Bold Graphic T Shirts
Graphic tees were an icon of casual 80s men's fashion. Band tees, pop culture references and bold logos made the t-shirt more than just a piece of underwear - it was a statement piece.
How to Wear It Today:
Graphic tees are still fashionable, but today’s styles are more sophisticated. Opt for vintage-inspired designs that reference your favorite band or subtle retro prints. Pair with neutral chinos or jeans for balance.
The key is to avoid designs that are too garish and focus on graphics that have timeless appeal.
80s Fashion For Men: Ivy League Style
The 80s preppy look was all the rage, thanks to brands like Ralph Lauren, Lacoste and Tommy Hilfiger.
Polo shirts, chinos and crew neck sweaters draped over the shoulders became synonymous with this clean-cut aesthetic.
How to Wear It Today:
Preppy style never goes out of style. To give this 80s men’s fashion trend a modern twist, stick with a fitted polo shirt in neutral or pastel tones.
Pair it with slim-fit chinos or tailored shorts for a sophisticated yet casual look. A lightweight sweater tied around the shoulders still works today, but be sure to do it with caution.
80s Fashion For Men: Retro Tracksuits and Sneakers
Sportswear was a big part of men’s fashion in the 80s. From gym class to the streets, brightly colored tracksuits, headbands, and high-top sneakers were everywhere.
How to Wear It Today:
While neon-colored tracksuits may seem out of place with today’s style, you can embrace retro athleisure style with subtle touches.
Think clean, solid-color tracksuits or vintage sneakers like Adidas Superstars or Nike Air Jordans. High-tops paired with slim-fit jeans or jogging pants can create a casual yet stylish look.
80s Fashion For Men: Trench Coats and Overcoats
From the iconic beige trench coats worn by detectives in 80s movies to oversized coats, outerwear is designed to make a statement. These pieces add drama and sophistication to any outfit.
How to Wear It Today:
Trench coats are just as popular today as they were in the 80s. Look for streamlined designs and minimal embellishments to keep the focus on the trench coat’s timeless appeal.
Neutral colors like camel, navy, or black work best. Pair a trench coat with tailored trousers or dark jeans for a sleek, modern look inspired by 80s men’s fashion.
80s Fashion For Men: The Finishing Touches
No discussion of 80s men’s fashion would be complete without mentioning accessories. Aviator sunglasses, digital watches, and belts with bold buckles were staples of the era.
How to Wear It Today:
Stick to one or two statement accessories to avoid making your outfit too boring.
A pair of classic aviator or wayfarer sunglasses can instantly add a hint of 80s cool. For watches, consider a vintage-style digital watch like a Casio or a simple leather strap watch.
80s Fashion For Men: Bold Patterns
Men in the 80s weren’t afraid of bold patterns and bright colors. Hawaiian shirts, plaid blazers, and bright knits were just a few of the standout trends.
How to Wear It Today:
Incorporate bold patterns sparingly to keep your outfit balanced. A patterned shirt paired with neutral trousers or a colorful pocket square with a grey blazer can evoke the 80s without going too far.
The key is to let one piece be the focal point while keeping the rest of your outfit understated.
80s Fashion For Men: Pop Star Style
Finally, men's fashion in the '80s was heavily influenced by pop culture. From the rugged looks of action heroes like Arnold Schwarzenegger to the styling of pop icons like Prince, men's fashion was as diverse as the entertainment of the era.
How to Wear It Today:
Take inspiration from your favorite 80s icons, but adapt them for modern times. Love the rugged glamour of an action star?
Stick to basics like leather boots, overalls, and durable jackets. Admire the boldness of a pop star? Try a few unique textures like velvet or suede.
80s men’s fashion is all about making a statement, and that’s a principle that never goes out of style. By incorporating select elements of this iconic decade into your wardrobe, you can create a look that’s fresh, confident, and timeless.
Remember, the key to successfully pulling off any look—whether inspired by the 80s or not—is confidence. When you wear your clothes with confidence, you’ll stand out for all the right reasons.
