The 1980s were a time of bold fashion statements, vibrant colors, and distinctive styles that defined a decade. One of the most exciting aspects of Popular Accessories In The 80s was the accessories, which played an essential role in completing an outfit and making it unforgettable. From chunky jewelry to neon-colored items, accessories were used to express individuality and creativity in ways never seen before.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the most popular accessories of the 80s, explaining their significance and how they contributed to shaping the fashion landscape of the decade.
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Introduction: Accessories In The 80s – A Fashion Revolution
The 80s was a transformative decade in fashion. The larger-than-life style trends, dramatic silhouettes, and extravagant accessories were not just about looking good—they were about making a statement. The accessories of the 80s helped to define various subcultures, from the punk rockers and new romantics to the preppy kids and glam metal musicians. Accessories were key to completing a look and turning the ordinary into the extraordinary.
The fashion of the 80s was also heavily influenced by the growing music scene, movies, and television shows. Icons like Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Princess Diana had a huge influence on the fashion choices of the time, inspiring people to embrace extravagant jewelry, big hair accessories, and other bold items. Let’s explore the most iconic accessories that helped shape this vibrant era.
The Rise Of Statement Jewelry
Jewelry in the 80s was all about making a statement. No longer was it about subtle elegance; bold and chunky designs ruled the day. Large pieces of jewelry were often layered to create a dramatic effect, with different materials and textures coming together to catch the eye.
Chunky Necklaces and Bracelets
Thick gold chains, oversized pendants, and chunky bangles became synonymous with 80s fashion. Celebrities and socialites like Joan Collins on Dynasty showcased luxurious jewelry that complemented their opulent outfits. Big necklaces were often worn with high-neck tops and were meant to be the focal point of the outfit. These bold pieces gave the impression of power and wealth, a trend that caught on among both men and women.
Bracelets followed suit with chunky designs that were stacked high on the wrists. Leather, gold, and plastic were popular materials, and layering them was the way to go. Think of the iconic “arm party” look, where as many bracelets as possible were worn on both arms.
Bold Earrings
The earrings of the 80s were often as bold as the rest of the jewelry. Huge hoop earrings, statement studs, and dangling designs ruled the scene. Women were seen rocking oversized geometric shapes, animal prints, and dangling chains. These pieces complemented the larger-than-life hair and makeup that were typical of the time, helping to complete the dramatic 80s look.
Headbands And Hair Accessories
One of the defining features of 80s fashion was the voluminous hairstyles. To complete these high-maintenance hairdos, various accessories were used to hold everything in place and add flair.
Scrunchies and Ribbon Headbands
Scrunchies were a game-changer when it came to hair accessories. These fabric-covered elastic bands were not only functional but also stylish, coming in a wide range of colors and materials, including satin, velvet, and cotton. They were a must-have for anyone sporting a ponytail or a voluminous side ponytail, which was a popular hairstyle at the time.
Ribbon headbands were also a favorite for women who wanted to add a soft touch to their hairstyle. These headbands often featured bows, adding a cute, feminine element to an otherwise bold outfit.
Bow Ties and Clips
Other popular hair accessories included large bow ties and clips that could be used to secure the hair or simply add decoration. Clips came in many styles, such as colorful plastic clips or rhinestone-studded versions. These accessories were often worn by young girls and women alike, and the bigger, the better.
Sunglasses: The Bigger, The Better
Sunglasses were not just a functional accessory in the 80s; they were a must-have fashion item that reflected the era’s desire for boldness and excess. The 80s witnessed a rise in oversized frames, often seen on the faces of Hollywood stars and fashion icons.
Aviators and Wayfarers
Aviators, popularized by Tom Cruise in Top Gun (1986), became an iconic 80s accessory. These thin, metal-framed glasses with a teardrop shape were associated with a cool, rebellious attitude. Wayfarer sunglasses, made famous by the likes of Ray-Ban and worn by celebrities such as James Dean and Madonna, also dominated the 80s fashion scene. Their angular frame and retro style made them the perfect companion for many 80s outfits.
Mirrored and Neon Frames
In the late 80s, mirrored sunglasses took off, with bright reflective lenses adding a futuristic touch to outfits. Neon-colored sunglasses were also a hit during this time, often paired with neon clothing and accessories for a cohesive, eye-popping look.
Belts And Waist Accessories
The 80s were a time when fashion was all about the waist. From high-waisted jeans to skirts, the waistline was often accentuated, and belts were the go-to accessory for achieving this look.
Wide Belts
Wide belts, often made from leather or fabric, were worn at the waist to cinch in oversized jackets, dresses, or blazers. These belts could be plain or decorated with studs, buckles, or other embellishments, adding extra drama to an outfit. They were particularly popular among women who were going for the “power-dressing” look, as made famous by businesswomen in the corporate world.
Fanny Packs
Though initially thought of as a practical solution to carrying personal items, fanny packs (also known as belt bags) became a huge fashion trend in the 80s. Brightly colored and often neon, fanny packs were worn across the chest or around the waist and were frequently paired with casual, sporty outfits. They made a major comeback in recent years as part of the ’90s nostalgia trend.
Footwear Accessories
Footwear in the 80s wasn’t just about shoes—it was about creating a whole look. Accessories for shoes became just as important as the shoes themselves.
High-Top Sneakers
High-top sneakers, such as those from brands like Nike and Converse, were a popular accessory in the 80s, especially in the hip-hop and street culture scene. The bright, bold colors and high ankle design made these shoes stand out. They were often worn with baggy pants or shorts, adding an element of cool to any outfit.
Lace and Anklet Accessories
Lace was another footwear accessory that made waves in the 80s. Lace ankle socks were worn with a variety of shoes, from sneakers to dressy pumps, adding a touch of femininity. Anklets were also worn by both men and women, often made from thin metal chains or beads, further emphasizing the importance of accessorizing every part of your look.
The Power Of Neon And Bright Colors
One of the most defining aspects of 80s fashion was the use of neon colors. Neon accessories in bright hues like pink, orange, green, and yellow were often worn to create a flashy, attention-grabbing appearance. Whether it was a neon belt, bracelet, or scrunchie, these accessories were meant to add energy to any outfit.
Neon Everything
Neon was the ultimate expression of the 80s’ love for bold and vibrant color. Accessories, including bags, belts, hair clips, and socks, were all available in neon colors, often paired together for maximum effect. This obsession with neon was part of a larger trend, in which fashion and design were influenced by pop art, video games, and futuristic ideas.
Bright Plastic Jewelry and Accessories
Along with neon, bright plastic jewelry became incredibly popular. Large, bold bangles, chunky earrings, and bright rings were worn to create a playful and youthful vibe. These plastic accessories were often lightweight and came in an array of colors, making them easy to mix and match.
The Impact Of Pop Culture Icons
Pop culture icons were a massive influence on fashion trends in the 80s, and their accessories became just as famous as their music and performances.
Madonna and the Punk Scene
Madonna’s influence on 80s fashion cannot be overstated. Her punk-inspired looks, which included leather, lace, and dramatic accessories, helped make chunky necklaces, fingerless gloves, and big earrings a must-have for women everywhere. Meanwhile, punk rockers were wearing studded leather accessories, spiked bracelets, and bold jewelry to reflect their rebellious attitudes.
Michael Jackson and the Thriller Look
Michael Jackson’s Thriller music video (1983) introduced iconic fashion pieces, such as military-style jackets, white socks with black loafers, and single white gloves. These accessories became synonymous with Jackson’s image, influencing fashion trends around the world.
Conclusion
The Popular Accessories In The 80s continue to influence modern fashion. With the resurgence of retro styles, many of the iconic accessories from the 80s have made a comeback in today’s wardrobes. From chunky jewelry to neon-colored items, the bold and daring accessory trends of the 80s show no sign of fading.
The 80s may be long gone, but the boldness and creativity that defined its fashion remain as relevant as ever.
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FAQs
What is the most iconic 80s accessory?
The most iconic 80s accessory is arguably the chunky jewelry—particularly large statement necklaces and earrings. These bold pieces became synonymous with 80s fashion and were often worn in abundance to create a dramatic look.
Why did 80s fashion emphasize accessories so much?
Accessories were used to make a bold statement. They allowed people to express their individuality, and with the vibrant culture of the 80s, they helped complete the larger-than-life outfits that characterized the era.
Were fanny packs a fashion statement in the 80s?
Yes, fanny packs were both a practical accessory and a major fashion statement in the 80s. Worn across the waist or chest, they became synonymous with casual, sporty looks.
What was the significance of neon accessories in the 80s?
Neon accessories reflected the 80s’ love for bright colors and energy. Neon-colored items were often used to create flashy, attention-grabbing outfits that matched the bold trends of the time.
Did celebrities influence 80s fashion trends?
Absolutely! Celebrities like Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Princess Diana had a massive influence on 80s fashion. Their unique styles and accessories shaped the trends that defined the decade.
