While the '80s are known for many things—the movies! The models!—in our opinion, the '80s were genuinely all about the fashion. From Cher’s daring dresses to Madonna’s Like A Virgin-era getups, the decade was undisputedly a time to be alive when it came to the clothes. The outfits were big. They were bold. They were covered in sequins. And it didn’t stop there: the penchant for larger-than-life hair during that decade proved that pretty much all of the beauty trends that are currently going viral on TikTok and Instagram originated well before the internet ever existed. So, excuse me as I take a brief trip down memory and reminisce about all of the best (and most over-the-top) looks from the decade.
Cindy Crawford circa 1989
Cindy Crawford may be classified as a '90s-era supermodel, but this all-black outfit from 1989 proves that her star was truly on the rise.
Princess Diana circa 1988
This jeans-and-a-sweatshirt outfit that Princess Di wore remains on many a Pinterest board to this day—and for good reason.
Brooke Shields circa 1983
The bralette under a blazer is trending for 2020, but back in 1983 Brooke Shields was already rocking, and mastering, this look. Here, she attended the premiere of Stayin Alive on July 11 at Mann Chinese Theater in Hollywood, California.
Diana Ross, 1984
The singer performed onstage in a glittering red sequin dress. This look would still be relevant on the red carpet today. Gal Gadot wore a similar version of this red gown to the Oscar's after-party in 2018.
