The 1980s was a decade in which men’s fashion took a bold and daring turn. Men embraced new styles that music, television, film, and even subcultures provided them. Unforgettable looks like oversized blazers and punk rock outfits emerged to define the diverse and iconic fashion history of the 1980s. This article revisits the top 10 outfits that shaped men’s wear in the 1980s.
Power Suit Look
The power suit defined business fashion in the ‘80s. These suits were sharply structured suits with exaggerated shoulder pads paired with wide ties and suspenders, became iconic 80s outfits for men. Their use in movies such as Wall Street made them iconic symbols of ambition and status. Bold patterns like pinstripes and rich navy or grey colors were the order of the day. This symbol of success was adopted both inside and outside the corporate world.
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Rock Star Glam
Bon Jovi, Bowie, and other heavy metal glam rock artists started the trend of incorporating animal print shirts along with tight leather pants and studded accessories for men. Embracing the edgy, rebellious 80s outfits for men that were widely accepted, it became extremely easy for artists to put together flamboyant ensembles full of fingerless gloves, mesh tops, lavish necklaces, and even eyeliner. And as amazing, dramatic, and vivid as it was, the hair was always ‘pumped’, felt joyous with wildness, so you’d often see voluminous teased styles or untamed long waves.
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Preppy Ivy League Style
Prepped is a look many people wear to date, as there is a certain level of elegance and polish to simple and casual styles. Alongside Ralph Lauren, College campuses did shape how males dressed in pastels, with polo t-shirts, V-neck sweaters, khakis, or even boat shoes that automatically matched. Sweaters were worn over the shoulders, bringing a sense of style and while the shirt was always tucked in. These 80s outfits for men were driven to help someone appear affluent and wealthy, it balance simplicity and effortless style. Clean-cut with structured lines.
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Hip Hop Street Wear Fashion
The regeneration in urban fashion came riding along with the rise of hip-hop music. 80s outfits for men in this style featured oversized tracksuits, bucket hats, gold chains, sneakers, and chunky shoes were essentials. Run-D.M.C’s sporty outfits with Adidas customized gear led the charge. Street wear was comfort-driven and self-expressive, often made of oversized jackets, bold logos, and graphic tees. The look influenced culture and celebrated uniqueness which contributed to the impactful fashion movements of the decade.
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Double Denim Look
Arguably one of the most famous 80s outfits for men during the late 80s was wearing double denim, featuring acid-wash jackets along with matching jeans. This outfit ensemble was a rugged casual look that many in the public adored. Layered over turtlenecks or logo tees, this style was sported by Bruce Springsteen. The perfect blend of laid-back and masculine, it became synonymous with quintessential weekend wear. Throughout the 80’s, denim was favored not just as bottom wear, but tops as well, be it distressed or clean.
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Suits Inspired by Miami Vice
Pastel colors in relaxed suits emerged from shows such as Miami Vice; men would don pastel blazers, pink, mint, or powder blue, and wear them over t-shirts. These 80s outfits for men featured tees worn without a tie and sleeves were rolled up. The pants were loose and airy. This style blend of casual and classy was appropriate for warm weather and tropical getaways. It could be embraced during summer evenings and resort getaways. It was Don Johnson’s effortless, cool style that popularized the look across America and beyond.
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Rebellion Punk Fashion
Punk fashion was a clear statement that one chooses not to conform. This rebellious look was characterized by band shirts, jeans, combat boots, and leather jackets, making for distinctive 80s outfits for men. Mohawks or spiked hair drenched in dye were common, accompanied by safety pins, studs, and patches. Alongside The Clash, the underground music scene fueled this raw, rebellious aesthetic. Pieces were one of a kind, DIY, void of any polish and intent became a statement against modern trends.
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Workout-Inspired Fashion
The gym became the center of fashion for men in the 1980s. They donned short shorts, sweatbands, spandex, neon tank tops, and colorful sneakers all in the name of fashion. Workout videos, aerobics culture, and bodybuilders such as Andold Schwarzenegger were the inspirations. The aesthetics were bright, energetic, fun, confident, and best of all, health-conscious. It didn’t matter if someone was exercising or not, 80s outfits for men gave off a look of comfort, visibility, and invigoration.
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Printed and Hawaiian Shirts
Casual men’s shirts gleamed with Hawaiian flowers, bold patterns, and tropical vibes. These shirts were worn either open or buttoned up and paired with shorts or light pants. Shows like Magnum, P.I. did wonders for the loose casual buttoned shirts, which brought along the sun-loving attitude too many people were waiting for. When it came to prints, there were few rules. Flamingos, palm trees, and abstract designs were all fair game and welcome in 80s outfits for men. These shirts complemented the monotony during the weekdays, transforming men’s wardrobes over the weekends and on vacation.
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Statement Accessories and Hairstyles
Besides clothes, accessories were also pivotal to fashion in the 1980s. For men, accessories included gold chains, oversized sunglasses, snapback caps, and chunky digital watches. The hairstyles during that time were also very expressive. We had the mullet, perms, and teased hairstyles that were all very iconic. You could also be dressed as a punk, preppy, or a rock star, but with the right accessories and hairstyle, everything would fit perfectly. Add it all up, and the decade as a whole was about attention-grabbing pieces, including even the most minute details, which was true for 80s outfits for men as well.
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Final Remarks
For 1980s gents and the decade, fashion meant taking audacious risks and creativity. Kept aside functionality, clothes were worn to reflect a person’s character, attitude, or unique spirit. Flaunting bright colored tracks, oversized shoulder pads, or a layered denim outfit was a loud statement. A number of those bold styles from the 80s are making a comeback and reviving the belief that astonishing fashion is never actually out of style.
We hope this Iconic 80s Outfits for Men”- “What Did Guys Wear in the 80s?” gave you a good starting point for you to build something that stand the test of times. If you are looking to start a clothing brand, we recommend that you read our guide – how to start a clothing brand.
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