'80s Bright Fads for Women
An iconic decade in fashion, the 1980s gave rise to a number of bright and eye-catching trends that have survived throughout the years. From shoulder pads to outrageously teased hair to Dr. Martens, women's trends throughout the eighties certainly made a bold statement. Does this Spark an idea?
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Clothing
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Clothing throughout the 1980s was often colorful, daring and varied in its proportions -- from tightly fitting to loose and baggy. Trends ranged from neon and pastel leotards to bold jackets with shoulder pads. Popular items of clothing included spandex mini-skirts, skinny jeans, leggings, multicolored stirrup pants, leather jackets, brightly colored oversized shirts and over-the-shoulder sweatshirts. Acid-wash denim cutoffs and leg warmers were also popular.
Hairstyles
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Women's hair trends during the eighties sought to make a big statement, literally. Certainly, there was no discernible shortage of hairspray during this decade. Teased, crimped, and feathered hair among girls and women was rampant. Some individuals, regardless of hair length, also opted for contrasting color streaks -- some more subtle in shade and others that reflected the bright color trend. Women accessorized their hair with patterned scarves, colorful banana clips and large bows.
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Footwear
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Trends in footwear demonstrated the same versatility seen in every other aspect of women's eighties fashion. Flats, specifically jelly shoes, were among the favorites. Neon pumps and high-heeled shoes appeared frequently, and Dr. Martens and boots' popularity was evident. Urban high-tops and Converse sneakers came in a variety of neon and metallic colors. Whatever the shoe type, flashy colors were key.
Accessories and Makeup
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As for accessories, women leaned toward more eye-catching pieces. Eighties girls favored mismatched and bright bracelets as well as large and ornate earrings and rings. They wore lace and leather fingerless gloves, headbands, and digital watches that came in various colors and forms. Makeup mirrored the rest of the 1980s in its vivid presentation. Women used eye shadow and mascara liberally, and their lips took on a lighter, more pinkish tone.
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