Wearing 80s Men's Fashions Today

Embrace color for an 80s vibe.

If there is one constant in the fashion world, it's that everything comes back around (style wise) eventually. Right now, the 80s are the chosen decade to bring back into popularity. Although the fashions of this era could be a little garish and overdone, when done in a contemporary way, men can easily incorporate some 80s-inspired fashions into their current wardrobes.

Tips for Wearing 80s Men's Fashions Today

Although some of the fashions from the 80's may not be the best, there are many interesting looks from which to choose. Try adding just one or two features to create a unique look. You'd be surprised to learn that just a few pieces can liven up your wardrobe, allowing you to enjoy fashions from the past while still dressing for today. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Nighttime Wear

Since 80s fashions can be wildly over-the-top, the best way to try them out in a modern sense is to wear them at night. Whether you're going to the hottest nightclub, dinner at a swanky restaurant, bowling or an intimate house party, embrace 80s fashion in a big way. Best items: power suits, athletic wear, pastel/neon colors.

Mix 'n Match

guy in dressy 80s style

No one wants to look like they're wearing a costume when they're really not. So to avoid this fashion faux pas, mix 'n match your vintage threads with modern designs to keep things fresh. The result is a personalized look. Examples include:

  • Modern skinny jeans paired with a skinny 80s tie
  • Preppy polo shirt and Oxford shoes
  • Miami Vice-style white linen shorts and pastel jacket w/ a current graphic tee and embellished sneakers
  • A Thriller-like jacket with a pair of today's relaxed fit black denim jeans and high-top sneakers

Accessorize freely

Perhaps the easiest way of all to wear vintage fashions in a modern way is to start with accessories, and the 1980s are no exception. Punctuate your current wardrobe with some of these ideas:

  • Adorn you denim jacket with retro 80s styling like pop culture-inspired buttons and colored safety pins
  • Embrace the modern take on the 80s fanny pack and opt for a chic hip belt instead, which is smaller and more fashionable
  • Add a bright pop of color to any current outfit with vibrant colored watches and sunglasses

80s Pieces for a Modern Wardrobe

guys in skinny jeans and 80s style sweaters

Not every 80s fashion trend should be incorporated into a modern man's wardrobe. A few men's items from the 80s that could work for today include:

  • Casual suit jacket and t-shirt - Inspired by Miami Vice, a casual T-shirt with a suit jacket, typically worn open, was a key 80s trend. The T-shirt colors were anything from pastel to coral and the suit was typically white. Pull off this style by pairing it with modern men's skinny jeans and skipping the 80s loafers.
  • Skinny tie - Paired with a slim-cut dress shirt and contemporary trousers or denim, the skinny tie can add a fresh, but funky and 80s-inspired vibe to your look.
  • Funky cardigan - Patterned, 80s-style cardigans look cool paired with a fitted tee and modern denim.
  • Polos - Polo shirts are classic. Choose a color from the 80s like pastel or neon, but skip the sweaters tied around the shoulders and loafers that will make this shirt look like a preppy 80s costume.

Where to Shop

For those who want to incorporate a few 80s pieces into their wardrobes, there are several options to consider. Shopping at a vintage store can often lead to a great find. You can also shop online sites and department stores. Here are a few best bets:

  • Rusty Zipper - From Members Only jackets to Guayabera shirts, this online vintage retailer has a lot to offer. Expect to find a wide selection of fashions for men that are in good condition and ready to be worn.
  • eBay - Bid on fashions from the 80s or ones that are inspired from the decade. You can land great deals on one-of-a-kind finds and have fun in the process.
  • Viva Vintage Clothing - Shop the men's department to find a vast selection of fashions from the 1980s. You can find items such as shirts, jackets, jeans and outwear for men at this site.
  • American Apparel - Known for their fondness of a wide array of 80's-inspired fashions, the finds here are budget-friendly and trendy all at once.
  • Macy's - This massively popular department store is sure to have a variety of clothing available for you to try out an 80's fashion look.
  • Urban Outfitters - For the hipster set, this retail store is filled with a balanced mixture of vintage and modern clothing.
  • H&M - High-end designer looks at a fraction of the price, they also happen to have several items that can recreate a retro look in a flash.

Your Look Is Complete

Once you've done the necessary shopping and styling required to create your 1980s men's fashion look, test it out with confidence. You'll likely find along the way that vintage fashions/shopping is a great way to spice up your wardrobe and create your own distinct sense of style.