Mens Wear In The 80s

The Bold and the Beautiful: A Deep Dive into Men's Fashion of the 1980s

The 1980s. A decade of big hair, bold colors, and even bolder fashion choices. For men, this era represented a fascinating shift in style, moving away from the more subdued looks of the 70s and embracing a flamboyance that, while sometimes viewed with amusement today, reflected the decade's vibrant energy and economic boom. This article delves deep into the iconic styles, key trends, and cultural influences that defined men's wear in the 1980s. We’ll explore everything from the power suits that dominated the boardroom to the rebellious styles worn on the streets, painting a complete picture of a decade that redefined masculine fashion.

The Power Suit: Symbol of Success and Ambition

Perhaps the most enduring image of 1980s men's fashion is the power suit. This wasn't just any suit; it was a statement of ambition, success, and unwavering confidence. Think broad shoulders, generously padded, often in bold colors like navy, grey, or even pinstripes. The fabrics were typically heavy and structured, emphasizing a silhouette that exuded authority. Double-breasted jackets were particularly popular, adding to the overall powerful and commanding look.

The power suit was inextricably linked to the rise of corporate culture and the yuppie phenomenon. Young, upwardly mobile professionals adopted this style as a uniform, projecting an image of success that aligned with their ambitions. The fit was crucial; it had to be impeccably tailored, conveying a sense of sophistication and meticulous attention to detail. This wasn't just about wearing a suit; it was about wearing the part. The power suit was a visual representation of the decade's emphasis on material success and upward mobility.

Paired with the power suit were often crisp, white shirts, often with French cuffs and cufflinks, adding another layer of formality and refinement. Ties were wide, often featuring bold patterns or contrasting colors, further emphasizing the overall bold and confident aesthetic.

Beyond the Boardroom: Casual Wear Finds its Voice

While the power suit dominated the professional world, the 1980s also saw a significant evolution in casual wear for men. This was a time when comfort and style began to coexist more harmoniously, moving away from the more restrictive styles of previous decades.

One of the most prominent casual trends was the rise of denim. Denim jackets, jeans (often stonewashed or acid-washed for a faded effect), and even denim shirts became staple items in many men's wardrobes. This reflected a growing informality in society and a move towards more relaxed attire, even outside of purely casual settings.

Preppy styles also experienced a resurgence in the 80s, particularly amongst college students and young professionals. This aesthetic, characterized by button-down shirts, chinos, loafers, and sweaters, offered a more refined and classic alternative to the flashier trends of the decade. Think Ralph Lauren and the idealized image of American prep school style. The preppy look offered a sense of effortless sophistication, a counterpoint to the aggressive power suit.

The 1980s also saw the introduction of more athletic-inspired clothing into mainstream men's fashion. Tracksuits, sneakers, and other athletic wear, previously confined to the gym or sporting events, began to appear more regularly in everyday outfits. This was partially driven by the increasing popularity of fitness and health consciousness during this era. This trend marked a shift in attitudes towards athletic wear, acknowledging its comfort and style potential beyond its original sporting context.

Accessories: The Finishing Touches of 80s Style

Accessories played a significant role in completing the 1980s look. The details mattered, and these accessories often added a level of boldness or sophistication to the overall ensemble.

Wide ties, as mentioned earlier, were a defining characteristic of the power suit, but they extended into more casual settings as well. Bold patterns, bright colours, and even novelty prints were common.

Cufflinks were another essential accessory, adding a touch of class and personality to the crisp white shirts. From simple gold studs to more elaborate designs, cufflinks were a means of self-expression and a reflection of individual style.

Watches were not merely functional timekeeping devices; they were fashion statements. Large, bold watches, often with metallic bands, were popular, showcasing a preference for bold and noticeable accessories.

Leather jackets were another important accessory, often worn over denim or preppy outfits, adding an element of edge and rebellion. These jackets represented a certain cool and rebellious spirit, particularly popular among those who didn't entirely conform to the yuppie stereotype.

Hairstyles and Grooming: The Big Hair Era

No discussion of 1980s men's fashion would be complete without addressing the hairstyles. The 80s were characterized by big, voluminous hair, a stark contrast to the more subdued looks of earlier decades. Big hair, often teased and styled with copious amounts of hairspray, was the ultimate symbol of 80s masculinity, reflecting the decade's overall preference for bold and extravagant styles.

Mustaches and sideburns also experienced a significant resurgence in popularity, adding to the overall powerful and assertive image that many men sought to project. While styles varied, a key theme was creating volume and shaping the hair to maximize its impact.

Cultural Influences and Subcultural Styles

The fashion trends of the 1980s weren't solely determined by mainstream designers and trends. Several subcultures played a pivotal role in shaping alternative styles that challenged the dominant narratives.

Punk and New Wave styles continued to influence men's fashion, albeit in a somewhat diluted form compared to the 70s. Ripped jeans, leather jackets, and studded accessories remained common elements, but they were often incorporated into more mainstream outfits, reflecting the growing acceptance of alternative styles in wider society.

Hip-hop culture, which was gaining significant momentum in the 80s, also impacted men's fashion. Gold chains, baggy jeans, and sneakers became symbols of hip-hop style, influencing the way many young men dressed. This influence was particularly impactful on urban street style, showcasing a unique blend of rebellion, individuality and cultural pride.

The Evolution of Men's Fashion: From Power Suits to Casual Cool

The 1980s represent a significant turning point in men's fashion. The decade’s styles, although sometimes viewed as overly bold or flamboyant by today’s standards, reflect a crucial evolution. The sharp, tailored power suits conveyed ambition and success in the corporate world, but casual styles were also finding their voice, leading to a broader range of acceptable attire. The decade saw a successful blend of formal and informal, blending comfort with style. This laid the groundwork for more diverse and less rigid trends in the decades to come. The 80s provided a unique and memorable tapestry of looks, marking a significant shift in how men approached their personal style, leaving behind a lasting legacy that influences designers and trends even today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What were some of the most popular colors in men's fashion during the 1980s?

A: Bold colors were prevalent. Think navy, grey, bright pastels, and even neon shades. These colors were often seen in suits, shirts, and accessories, reflecting the decade's flamboyant aesthetic.

Q: Were there any specific designers who defined 1980s men's fashion?

A: Several designers significantly shaped 80s styles. Ralph Lauren epitomized the preppy look, while other designers focused on the power suit aesthetic. The influence extended beyond individual designers, with a collective cultural push towards certain styles and trends.

Q: How did 1980s men's fashion differ from previous decades?

A: The 80s witnessed a move towards bolder colors, more structured silhouettes (especially in suits), and a greater acceptance of casual wear in various settings. Previous decades tended toward more subdued styles and a clearer separation between formal and informal attire.

Q: What aspects of 1980s men's fashion are still relevant today?

A: Certain elements remain relevant. The emphasis on well-tailored clothing, the use of quality fabrics, and the understanding of how accessories can elevate an outfit are all timeless principles. Even certain aspects of casual style, such as denim, have remained constants across multiple fashion eras.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Bold Style

The 1980s in men's fashion was a fascinating blend of ambition, rebellion, and a celebration of individuality. From the commanding power suit to the burgeoning casual styles, the decade left an indelible mark on the world of menswear. While some aspects might seem dated today, the boldness and creativity of 80s fashion offer a valuable lesson: that style is a powerful form of self-expression, and embracing individual taste, no matter how unconventional, can be a rewarding journey. The legacy of the 80s continues to inspire designers and fashion enthusiasts, demonstrating that even seemingly outlandish trends can leave behind a legacy of innovation and style.