Recently, while browsing in Nordstrom Rack, I stumbled upon a display of vibrant plastic sunglasses featuring square black lenses and neon-colored temples. I chuckled to my friend, “There’s no need for me to buy these; I can just search through my parents’ basement and surely find my old pair from junior high.”
The sunglasses are just a glimpse into the world of ’80s fashion that lingers in my memory. I distinctly recall saving my allowance in sixth grade to purchase a round acid-washed denim purse. It was about the size of a salad plate, complete with pleats, a puffy middle, and long skinny straps perfect for slinging over my shoulder. What’s truly astonishing is that I genuinely believed it would never go out of style.
Fast forward over two decades, and I find myself amused as ’80s fashion makes a comeback. Retro styles seem far more appealing when you haven’t personally experienced the decade that birthed them. Those who rocked Hammer pants back in the day aren’t likely to rush to American Apparel for a new pair today. Interestingly, these are now referred to as “harem pants,” but we know better. This doesn’t change their overall appeal.
As I observed various trends resurface, I thought to myself, leotards and Members Only jackets are one thing, but surely acid wash won’t return. Yet, to my surprise, it did. This spring, I spotted a young woman confidently sporting acid-washed overalls. Strangely enough, she didn’t look completely out of place. The overalls were well-fitted and crafted from a tasteful dark gray denim. I’m not about to buy a pair, but she certainly made them work.
After skipping over the sunglasses, I moved on to a rack that appeared to feature maxi skirts. Upon closer inspection, I discovered they were actually long, flowing pants adorned with a bold Southwestern print. This triggered another memory of me in elementary school, wearing pleated pants in a similar pastel Southwestern design. It seems that the Internet and fashion-conscious women favor palazzo pants nowadays. While I appreciate the European flair, I can’t quite envision myself in a pair.
Of course, I’ve been known to change my mind. I vividly recall discussing the skinny jean trend a few years back, declaring, “I can’t wait for them to go out of style; I’m never buying a pair.” Now, I find myself with four pairs in my closet. In fact, I may have left the store that day with yet another addition.
It often takes me time to warm up to new trends. I observe women in magazines and on the streets, confidently showcasing particular styles, and I start to believe that maybe these looks could work for me too. I eventually embraced the skinny jeans paired with tall boots for fall, realizing that wide-leg jeans tucked into boots don’t create the best silhouette.
However, the ’80s clothing I remember is a mixed bag. Some items evoke nostalgia, like jelly shoes. If I had a daughter, I would buy her a pair without hesitation. Others are so cringe-worthy that I try to erase them from my mind immediately. Sorry, sixth-grade me, but as hard as it is to believe, just like the obsolete double spaces you learned to add in keyboarding class, some of those outfits were destined to fade from fashion.
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In summary, while ’80s fashion trends may come and go, their nostalgic charm remains. Whether it’s the return of acid wash or the enduring appeal of jelly shoes, our style evolution reflects a blend of past experiences and contemporary influences.
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