Pump Up Your Style: The Ultimate Guide to Rockin' the '80s

Like, totally rad! The '80s were a time of big hair, neon colors, and synth-pop beats. And while the fashion and music may have changed, the style and spirit of the decade live on.

Whether you're a child of the '80s looking to relive your glory days or a newbie wanting to channel that retro vibe, this comprehensive guide will help you rock the look from head to toe. So, grab your leg warmers and get ready to time-warp back to the best decade ever!

Neon Nation: Electric Hues to Light Up Your World

Neon colors were all the rage in the '80s. From electric pinks to fluorescent yellows, these vibrant shades screamed "notice me!" They were perfect for making a statement, whether you were hitting the dance floor or just cruising down the street.

Today, neon is making a major comeback. Celebrities like Zendaya and Harry Styles have been spotted rocking neon outfits, and even high-end fashion designers are incorporating these bold hues into their collections.

Why it matters: Neon colors can boost your mood, attract attention, and make you stand out from the crowd. They're also a great way to add a touch of fun and energy to your wardrobe.

Benefits:

• Brightens up your day
• Makes you more visible
• Adds a pop of color to your look

Tips and Tricks:

• Start with small accents like neon jewelry or shoes.
• Pair neon pieces with neutral colors like black or white to balance the look.
• Don't be afraid to mix and match different neon colors.
• Accessorize with bold patterns or textures to create a truly '80s ensemble.

Big Hair, Don't Care: Volumizing Your Mane

Big hair was the epitome of '80s glamour. Think feathered bangs, voluminous curls, and teased-to-the-heavens ponytails. Women and men alike embraced this over-the-top style, creating some of the most iconic hairstyles of all time.

How to achieve it:

For naturally curly hair: Use a volumizing mousse or spray and diffuse your hair upside down. Finish with a touch of hairspray to hold the volume.

For straight hair: Tease your roots and backcomb your hair to create lift. Use a large-barrel curling iron to create loose curls and top it off with a generous dose of hairspray.

Why it matters: Big hair commands attention and makes you feel confident and glamorous. It's also a great way to express your playful and outgoing personality.

Benefits:

• Makes your hair look thicker and fuller
• Adds height and volume to your silhouette
• Gives you a glamorous and sophisticated look

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Over-teasing your hair, which can damage it
• Using too much hairspray, which can make your hair stiff and crunchy
• Not brushing your hair regularly, which can lead to tangles and breakage

Bodacious Bodies: Athletic Wear and Spandex Styles

The '80s were all about embracing your body and showing it off. Fitness became a huge trend, and athletic wear and spandex became everyday fashion staples. Women rocked leg warmers, leggings, and oversized sweatshirts, while men sported headbands, tracksuits, and high-top sneakers.

Why it matters: Athletic wear is comfortable, versatile, and can be dressed up or down. It's perfect for everything from working out to running errands to going out with friends.

Benefits:

• Comfortable and breathable
• Allows for freedom of movement
• Can be styled in various ways to suit different occasions

Effective Strategies:

• Invest in high-quality athletic wear that will last
• Mix and match different pieces to create unique and stylish looks
• Accessorize with belts, jewelry, or hats to elevate your sporty style

The Power of Patterns: Geometric Shapes and Animal Prints

Geometric shapes and animal prints were huge in the '80s. From bold stripes to abstract designs, these patterns added a touch of excitement and personality to any outfit. Celebrities like Madonna and Prince were known for their love of patterned clothing.

Why it matters: Patterns can create visual interest, draw attention to certain areas, and express your personal style. They're also a great way to add a touch of drama or whimsy to your wardrobe.

Benefits:

• Adds visual interest to your outfit
• Can be used to create different effects, such as slimming or elongating your figure
• Makes your outfit more memorable and unique

Tips and Tricks:

• Start with small patterns and gradually add larger or bolder ones as you become more comfortable.
• Mix different patterns together to create a truly '80s-inspired look.
• Use patterns to emphasize your best features or to draw attention away from areas you're not as confident about.

Accessories Galore: Belts, Bangles, and Bold Jewelry

Accessories were an essential part of the '80s style. From oversized belts to chunky bangles and statement earrings, these pieces added a finishing touch to any outfit. Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, and Cher were known for their iconic and over-the-top accessory choices.

Why it matters: Accessories can transform an ordinary outfit into something extraordinary. They can add a pop of color, a touch of glamour, or a hint of edginess.

Benefits:

• Complements and enhances your outfit
• Adds personality and style
• Can be used to create a variety of different looks

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Overdoing it with accessories, which can make your outfit look cluttered
• Not choosing accessories that suit your personal style
• Wearing accessories that are too small or too large

Music to Move You: Synth-Pop and New Wave Sounds

The '80s were the golden age of synth-pop and new wave music. Bands like Duran Duran, Depeche Mode, and Eurythmics dominated the charts with their catchy melodies, heavy synthesizers, and futuristic sound. This music was the perfect soundtrack to the decade's vibrant and energetic atmosphere.

Why it matters: Music has the power to evoke emotions, create memories, and inspire creativity. The '80s music scene was particularly influential, and its sound continues to resonate with people today.

Benefits:

• Energizes and motivates you
• Provides a sense of nostalgia and connection to the past
• Can be used to create a certain atmosphere or mood

Effective Strategies:

• Create a playlist of your favorite '80s songs
• Attend concerts or music festivals featuring '80s bands
• Explore new '80s-inspired music from contemporary artists

Style Icons of the Decade

The '80s were a time of iconic fashion and style icons. From movie stars to musicians, these individuals shaped the decade's signature looks and continue to inspire fashion and trends today.

Madonna: Known for her bold and provocative style, Madonna was a true fashion rebel. She popularized cone bras, fishnet stockings, and oversized jewelry.

Prince: The enigmatic musician was a master of androgyny and flamboyant style. He often wore ruffled shirts, high heels, and his signature purple outfits.

Michael Jackson: The King of Pop was a style icon both on and off stage. He popularized the moonwalk, the fedora, and his signature white glove.

Cindy Crawford: The supermodel defined the '80s beauty ideal with her long, flowing hair, perfect figure, and signature beauty mark.

Brooke Shields: The actress and model became famous for her iconic Calvin Klein ads and her effortless style. She was known for her denim cutoff shorts, oversized sweatshirts, and classic white shirts.

Impact on Contemporary Fashion

The '80s style has had a major impact on contemporary fashion. Designers like Marc Jacobs, Versace, and Balmain have all drawn inspiration from the decade's bold colors, geometric shapes, and oversized silhouettes.

Neon is back: Neon colors have made a huge comeback in recent years. From clothing to accessories, these vibrant hues are adding a touch of '80s flair to contemporary looks.

Athleisure is everywhere: Athletic wear is no longer just for the gym. It has become a mainstream fashion trend, with people wearing leggings, hoodies, and sneakers in everyday settings.

Oversized silhouettes: Oversized clothing was a staple of the '80s, and it's making a comeback today. From baggy suits to wide-leg pants, oversized pieces are creating a relaxed and comfortable aesthetic.

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