Those of us that lived through the 1980s usually try to hide the photographic evidence. Fashion-wise, it was a time of extremes. Everything was bright, bold, over-the-top and slightly cringe-worthy. But, everything in fashion repeats itself and the 80s are back. You can leave the blue eye shadow and leg warmers hidden. This time, the trends are scaled back and more refined, giving us a chance to get it right while a new generation experiences the fun for the first time. Here are the 80s trends that Cyndi Lauper and Madonna (the version in the cone bra, not the matador costume) want you to know are back and better than ever.
Oversized jewelry – Remember the advice to choose one statement piece and keep the rest of your accessories simple? Forget it! The 80s trend of “more is more” is back. Oversized jewelry and layered baubles are all must-haves this season. Try layering two statement necklaces of different lengths, or piling on several big bangles.
Clip-on earrings – Right along with oversized jewelry comes clip-on earrings. Though the 80s versions were mostly gaudy, today’s clip-on are beautifully crafted and range from oversized to dainty. These practical pieces allow you to wear large earrings that might be too heavy in pierced versions. Plus, you can wear them anywhere on the lobe, or wear more than one at once. Just like in the 80s, wearing a single earring, and wearing the other lobe pair, is a hot look. For bonus points, clip-on earrings do double duty as shoe clips, another 80s trend that is coming around again.
White shoes – For several years the awards for Hottest Shoe Trend and Most Boring Trend has gone to the same place… the nude pump. Now that practical, goes-with-everything style is making way for a more interesting choice that is also a flashback from the 80s. White heels work with nearly everything in your closet and are instant attention grabbers. Best done with pointed toes and stiletto heels they look fresh and modern while also having a bit of a retro vibe. Pair them with everything from bight solids to geometric and floral prints.
Neon – Bright neon hues are back just in time for summer! There’s no need to pair a glow-in-the-dark yellow top with a hot pink skirt like it the original version of this trend, but in moderation neons are actually very flattering. Even against the palest of skin, neon colors can make you look like you have a fresh-from-the-beach tan, without the pesky UV damage. Try the look in small doses by teaming a lime tee with navy shorts or adding a neon orange bracelet or multi-hued necklaces to a neutral outfit.