10 Street Style Signs That Prove the '80s Trend Is Really Happening

by Hannah Almassi

We predicted way back at the start of 2016 that the time to forgo flares and say buh-bye to boho was coming. Now, it has dominated autumn/winter 2018 and is set to be just as prolific in 2019, too. It seemed like the stronghold the 1970s had maintained over this fine fashion kingdom for more than three seasons appeared to be waning—and we were right. The style elite's most forward-thinking influencers are spinning into the following decade's aesthetic instead. Yes, you read correctly—this means the '80s are back in vogue, and it will affect your closet.

Rather than rah-rah skirts, Madonna-esque basques and cutoff gloves—or the kind of power-tailored shoulder pads that could jab a co-worker's eye out at 50 paces—'80s 2.0 truly can be a more casual affair, even when the runway's offering is unashamedly outré (see how popular Saint Laurent's eveningwear is with celebs right now).

Thanks to the deft street stylers and Instagrammers pictured below, we can deduce that the success rate is down to something very simple: Wear only one '80s throwback piece at a time, unless you are truly brave and/or majorly into this trend.

So here are the 10 fashionable flashback items genuinely in action. And if you’re feeling inspired, we have also selected the best options to shop the look…

1. Big Shoulders Replace Statement Sleeves

Photo:

@hannahlewisstylist

From "leg of mutton"-sleeve blouses like this elaborate one on Ece Sükan through to sharp tailoring, shoulders are the new focal point in fashion.

2. Designer Logos on Everything

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Getty Images

Belts, bags, earrings, shoes, sunglasses, T-shirts, sweaters, leggings… Right now you'll find the power branding of the world's biggest fashion houses all over every possible surface. Not brash—just of-the-moment.

3. Visor Sunglasses Are the New Oversized Shades

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Getty Images

If you aren't on board with the skinnier, more '90s/Matrix-esque sunglasses trend, then perhaps bigger, visor-style shades will be your thing.

4. Leggings Are Now a Night-Out Option

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Getty Images

Spandex was ultra popular during the '80s thanks to a rise in exercise classes, but now you'll find this stretchy, shiny new collection from Versace making its way into the going-out wardrobes of fashion girls.

5. Power Suits Don't Need an Office

Photo:

@tineandreaa

The strong-shouldered, neutral-coloured trouser suit was a favourite of working girls in the 1980s, but now they're a strong street style option—especially when worn with a roll-neck and big earrings.

6. Gold Earrings Need to Be Big

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Getty Images

Talking of big gold earrings, they were an essential part of the '80s look—and we've noticed clip-ons creeping back into stores and the streets yet again.

7. Boilersuits Are the Jumpsuit du Jour

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The Style Stalker

Utility-style, slouchy jumpsuits were popular when our mums were fully into '80s casual: Instead of wearing them with flats or sneakers as before, we'd recommend adding heels and a waist-belt.

8. Trousers Are Being Tucked Into Boots

Photo:

The Style Stalker

Slouchy and mid-calf boots are now ripe for the classic 1980s styling trick of tucking in loose-fit trousers—surprisingly good for a leg-lengthening effect.

9. Purple Is the Power Colour

Photo:

The Style Stalker

As predicted by Pantone and brought to life by the streets of fashion month, purple is trending—and you probably haven't seen it around this much since the '80s.