Rock Your Best ’80s Look at ‘Spamtown, USA’
Looking for some inspiration? Check out these ten must-haves of ‘80s fashion!
Let’s face it: the 1980s ushered in some totally outrageous fashion trends, many of which are starting to make a comeback as the “new vintage” for Gen Z (yes, Gen Xers —believe it or not, our tubular fashion has become vintage). So, take a trip down memory lane with these iconic looks. And if you are feeling especially nostalgic, dig into those attics and bring out some of that authentic style when you come to Spamtown, USA running February 16 through April 5!
One: The Biggest Hair and the Longest Mullet
In the 1980s, there was no such thing as “too big” for hair. Spiral perms, crimped hair, and sky-high bangs were all the rage with men and women. In fact, the ozone layer is finally recovering from all the Aquanet hair spray used throughout the decade. While big bangs went out of fashion by the time the grunge era of the late ’90s came in, the mullet has somehow survived to this day in ice hockey rinks throughout the United States. Why tho…
Two: Shoulder Pads
Shoulder pads could take you from the office to the dance floor to dropping the kids off at school. There wasn’t a style where it wasn’t accepted — from Iman to Cyndi Lauper, the shoulder pad gave you that flattering boxy look you always (never?) wanted.
Three: Leg Warmers
I must say, I was particularly excited when I saw that leg warmers were making a come back — in fact, it is surprising they never left fashion in cold places like Minnesota. A flexible fashion staple, leg warmers could be worn in Jazzercise classes, the night club, or school.
Four: Acid Wash Jeans
A definitive treatment on jean material — be it jeans on your legs or in the form of a jacket — the biggest question was whether to pin the ankles or roll them. No one was caught dead wearing acid washed jeans by the time the next two decades rolled around, but in 2019 the acid wash began making its bleachy comeback!
Five: Neon Colors
Neon colors were invented in the ‘80s — clothing became brighter than ever before, especially under black lights at the roller rink. That bright green skirt, leg warmers, and headband with neon pink t-shirt and leggings was a totally rad look.
Six: Members Only Jackets
“When you put it on, something happens to you.” That vague-ish tagline for these extremely popular jackets that donned a collar strap, thin logo, and narrow epaulettes was worn by men everywhere hoping for “something” to happen to them.
Seven: Electric Blue Eye Shadow
Not just any blue, electric blue eye shadow. And not only blue—eyelids of the 1980s were brightly colored with purples, pinks, silvers, blues, and greens. Depending on how glam you were, you might add some black eyeliner and mascara with patent leather red lips. If you were more valley, you might add a blush pink cheek and lip color.
Eight: Anything Madonna or Prince Wore
Let’s be real, anything these pop stars wore, we immediately had to rush out and copy. Highlights on dark roots, layers of crinolines or a miniskirt with layers of belts, fingerless lacy gloves, layered accessories, with stiletto heels or granny boots for the Madonna fans. Prince reigned the ruffled shirt, studded jacket, and velvet-and-lace everywhere style. Both artists absolutely defined what the 1980s looked like.
Nine: Swatch Watches
These brightly colored watches adorned wrists everywhere with their plastic bands and numberless picturesque faces. And of course, you could switch out the rubber pieces to match whatever neon outfit you were wearing that day.
Ten: Ripped Jeans and Torn Clothing
A staple in the closet of any punk rock kid in the ‘80s, distressing of jeans were fair game for all. As Amy Bolton in Spamtown, USA says, “That isn’t fashion, Daddy. It’s anti-fashion.” While today, ripped clothing is just part of consumer manufacturing, torn consumer goods/clothing actually began in the ‘70s as an expression of the punk anger toward society. This look became iconic and everywhere in fashion in the ‘80s — from hip hop to metal.
We look forward to turning back time with you at Spamtown, USA running February 16 through April 5! Get your tickets now!
— Article by Melissa Ferlaak
