Party Dresses in the 1980s
Big hair sprayed to the max, fingerless gloves and large earrings were often the accessories worn with party dresses in the 1980s. The '80s were a time when "greed was good" and the extravagance of the period was reflected in its clothing. Whether dripping with sequins or layered with ruffles, 1980s party dresses were often just like '80s hair: big and poufy.
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Features of '80s Dresses
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Party dresses in the 1980s, whether formal or casual, often had layers of ruffles or inverted ruffles, shoulder pads, drape-y fabric and ruching at the shoulders, according to Like Totally 80s. Other features of '80s dresses included bright colors, such as assorted shades of neon, floral prints, over-sized accessories such as large buttons or big bows, and polka dots. Party dresses were often accompanied by big hair and bold makeup including bright blue eyeshadow, thick eyeliner, bright blush on the cheeks and pink lipstick.
Cocktail Dresses
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Cocktail dresses in the 1980s often featured corset tops with layers of ruffles on short skirts. Strapless dresses were not uncommon, though spaghetti strap dresses were worn as well. Cocktail dresses for older women often covered the entire chest and focused on large shoulder pads and gobs of sequins, such as those featured in '80s TV shows "Dallas" and "Dynasty." Short black lace dresses inspired by Madonna were also an '80s favorite.
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Prom Dresses
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Prom dresses from the 1980s often included a lot of ruffles. They had large, poufy sleeves or thick shoulder pads, or they were strapless. Asymmetric hems were not uncommon. Dress colors ran the gamut from neons and pastels to bright floral patterns. Floor-length dresses were often worn for proms and other special events.
Sack Dresses
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Sack dresses were another favorite, though they were often worn in casual settings, too, with white socks and Keds sneakers. Sack dresses were considered a "preppy look," according to Like Totally 80s. As with other '80s dresses, sack dresses are available on eBay, and replicas are available on sites such as Etsy and Biz Rate.
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