What Most People Think 1980s Fashion Was vs. What It Actually Was
A Redditor recently sparked a discussion on r/AskReddit with a post comparing two drastically different perceptions of 1980s fashion. The first image showcased the neon-infused, over-the-top aesthetic often associated with the decade, while the second presented actual fashion catalogs from the era—showcasing a much more understated, classy look. Naturally, the discussion took off with people debating what the true essence of 80s fashion really was.
What We Think The 1980s Fashion Was
What Actually The 1980s Fashion Was
The Misconception: Loud Colors and Flashy Outfits
The first image featured what many think of when they hear “80s fashion”—neon colors, wild patterns, leg warmers, zebra-print pants, and oversized sunglasses. This exaggerated perception largely comes from 2010s nostalgia trends, where pop culture latched onto the most extreme aspects of the decade and amplified them.
Commentary:
“The first pic looks like it’s straight out of the early 2010s.”
“Yeah, this is giving me major LMFAO-the-band vibes.”
“It’s like the 80s got rebranded as some kind of cartoonish rave party.”
The Reality: Sleek, Classic, and Muted Tones
The second image, taken from actual 1980s fashion catalogs, showed what everyday people were more likely to wear—well-fitted jeans, tailored blazers, pleated trousers, and muted color palettes. While some elements of bold fashion existed (especially in music and subcultures), mainstream 80s fashion was actually quite polished and sophisticated.
Commentary:
“I’d say real 80s fashion was a mix—tight jeans, sneakers, and fitted T-shirts were huge. Some people had their own flair, but most were pretty basic.”
“Men’s fashion peaked in the 80s. It was comfortable but still sharp—casual or formal, everyone looked put together.”
“It’ll be interesting in 20 years when media starts depicting the 2020s as being all about e-girls and sad boys.”
Why the Confusion?
The misconception of 80s fashion comes from selective memory and pop culture exaggeration. Movies, music videos, and modern-day themed parties tend to highlight the most flamboyant aspects, making it seem like everyone walked around in neon tracksuits and leg warmers daily. However, actual photographs and catalogs from the era reveal a much more balanced and wearable style.
The Takeaway
If you want to channel true 80s fashion, skip the headbands and day-glow spandex. Instead, opt for structured silhouettes, neutral tones with subtle color contrasts, and effortlessly cool layering. The decade wasn’t all about excess—it was about style with a touch of edge.
Would you rock true 80s fashion, or are you sticking with the exaggerated party version?
Source: Reddit
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