1. Shoulder Pads That Rival Football Gear
Shoulder pads were everywhere in the ’80s, from business suits to casual blouses. The idea was to project confidence and power, especially for women entering the corporate world. Unfortunately, these oversized, angular pads often made people look more like linebackers than fashion icons. Even worse, they added an unnatural silhouette to otherwise stylish outfits, creating a top-heavy look that didn’t do anyone any favors.
The obsession with exaggerated shoulders was so pervasive that even dresses and sweaters weren’t safe. Taking them out was often a struggle because they were sewn directly into the garments. While the trend was meant to convey strength, it’s safe to say it’s one we’re glad to leave in the past. The New York Times describes it as a “power move gone wrong.”
2. Neon Everything, Everywhere
If you’ve ever squinted at old ’80s photos, you’ve probably encountered neon clothing. From electric pink leg warmers to blinding green jackets, neon was a staple of the decade. The brighter, the better seemed to be the motto, even if it meant resembling a highlighter. Neon didn’t just stay on clothing, either; accessories like sunglasses, scrunchies, and even shoelaces joined the fluorescent frenzy.
The trend was partly fueled by the rise of aerobics and fitness culture, where vibrant colors dominated workout gear. Unfortunately, these colors clashed terribly with everything else and didn’t always flatter skin tones. The commitment to being eye-catching often came at the expense of taste. Fashion History Timeline notes how neon encapsulated the era’s love for excess, but it’s definitely a trend we’re glad to dim.
3. Hammer Pants (or Parachute Pants)
Inspired by MC Hammer and breakdancing culture, parachute pants took baggy trousers to another level. Made from synthetic fabrics that made a crinkling sound with every step, these pants were oddly both heavy and flimsy. The oversized fit and cinched ankles created an unflattering balloon effect that didn’t work for most body types.
While they were meant to be practical for dancing, most people wore them as everyday attire, which was overkill. The trend made it difficult to look polished or put together. Despite their popularity among performers, the average person didn’t quite pull them off. Vogue has described them as a symbol of “peak ’80s absurdity”—and they weren’t wrong.
4. Acid-Wash Jeans
Nothing screams ’80s quite like acid-wash denim. These jeans were bleached to create a mottled, worn-in look, but they often just ended up looking messy. Whether it was a jacket, skirt, or pair of pants, the patchy appearance didn’t flatter anyone. Worse still, acid-wash was often paired with denim-on-denim ensembles, doubling down on the disaster.
The trend also extended to accessories, with people sporting acid-wash bags and even shoes. While denim is a timeless fabric, this particular treatment made it feel anything but classic. The fad eventually faded, but its loud and chaotic aesthetic still haunts us. Even GQ has called it one of the most regrettable trends in fashion history.
5. Ripped Fishnet Stockings
Fishnet stockings have always been a bit edgy, but the ’80s took them to a new level of grunge. People intentionally ripped and distressed their fishnets to pair with mini skirts and combat boots. While the look aimed to channel punk rebellion, it often came off as disheveled rather than daring. The rips were frequently uneven and excessive, turning an edgy accessory into a chaotic mess.
This wasn’t just a streetwear staple; ripped fishnets even showed up in glam rock and pop performances. Combined with heavy makeup and teased hair, it added to an overwhelming aesthetic. Unfortunately, this trend was more about shock value than style. It’s no wonder it didn’t stand the test of time.
6. Plastic Charm Necklaces
Brightly colored plastic charm necklaces were the ultimate accessory for kids and teens in the ’80s. Each necklace came with dangling charms shaped like roller skates, hearts, or animals, and the idea was to collect and trade them. While nostalgic for some, these necklaces were garish and often cheaply made, breaking easily.
Their popularity was fueled by their affordability and the sheer variety of charms available. However, the overload of charms often made the necklaces look clunky and impractical. Though they were fun in the moment, they don’t exactly scream sophistication. Looking back, it’s clear these accessories were more toy than fashion.
7. Crimped Hair
Crimping irons were all the rage in the ’80s, creating zigzagged waves in hair that defied nature. The crimped look was meant to add texture and volume, but it often just looked fried and unnatural. People would crimp their entire head of hair, leading to a style that was more “poofy” than polished.
This wasn’t just a casual look; crimped hair was worn for everything from prom to job interviews. Combined with the decade’s love for hairspray, it created a stiff, unmovable effect that didn’t do anyone any favors. While it’s fun to look back at photos, crimped hair is definitely a style best left in the past.
8. High-Waisted Bikini Bottoms
High-waisted bikini bottoms were meant to elongate the legs, but they often ended up looking uncomfortably high. These swimsuits often featured bold, clashing patterns that drew even more attention to the awkward cut. While some argue they’ve made a comeback, the original versions lacked the refined tailoring of today’s retro-inspired swimwear.
The fit often left little to the imagination, making them impractical for swimming or sunbathing. Despite their popularity in the ’80s, the design didn’t flatter many body types. Looking at vintage beach photos, it’s clear this trend was more about being bold than looking good. Thankfully, swimwear has since evolved into more functional and flattering options.
9. Fanny Packs Worn Over Everything
While fanny packs have made a recent comeback, their ’80s iteration was far from chic. These bulky waist pouches were worn over everything, from workout gear to evening outfits. The utilitarian design clashed with the decade’s love for glam, making them a confusing accessory choice.
To make matters worse, they were often made from garish materials like neon nylon or metallic fabrics. While practical for holding essentials, they added unnecessary bulk to outfits. Modern iterations have reimagined the fanny pack as a sleek belt bag, but the ’80s version remains a fashion don’t.
10. Oversized Graphic T-Shirts
Oversized graphic T-shirts featuring cartoon characters, logos, or slogans were a staple of casual ’80s fashion. These shirts were often paired with leggings or biker shorts, creating a silhouette that drowned the wearer. The graphics themselves were often loud and busy, adding to the chaotic look.
Though comfortable, the trend leaned heavily into sloppiness rather than style. The sheer size of these shirts made them look more like pajamas than everyday wear. While graphic tees are still popular, the ’80s versions lacked the balance and subtlety of today’s designs.
11. Mullets
The mullet, dubbed “business in the front, party in the back,” was one of the most infamous hairstyles of the ’80s. While it aimed to combine professional and casual vibes, it rarely succeeded. The sharp contrast between the short front and long back often looked awkward and unbalanced.
Mullets became popular among both men and women, with variations like permed mullets adding even more volume. Despite its moment of fame, the mullet is often the butt of jokes today. Though some have attempted to revive it, its ’80s origins remain cringe-worthy.
12. Jelly Shoes
Jelly shoes were made from translucent, rubbery material and came in a rainbow of colors. While they looked whimsical, they were incredibly uncomfortable. The plastic material caused feet to sweat and blister, making them impractical for extended wear.
Despite their drawbacks, jelly shoes were wildly popular among kids and teens. Their affordability and playful design made them appealing, but they weren’t built to last. Looking back, it’s clear these shoes were more about novelty than function.
13. Spandex Everything
The ’80s were obsessed with spandex, thanks to the fitness craze led by icons like Jane Fonda. From shiny leggings to head-to-toe bodysuits, spandex dominated both gyms and casual wear. While it’s undeniably practical for exercise, wearing it everywhere else was a questionable choice.
The clingy material highlighted every curve—and not always in a flattering way. Combined with the decade’s love for bold colors and patterns, spandex outfits often looked more like costumes. Though it’s still a staple for workouts, the ’80s overdid it in a way we’d rather forget.