Brightness, oversize and geometric shapes: the trends of the 80s become the most current fashion

Here are the 80s trends we’ve seen on the catwalks for summer 2023 that are going to be big this autumn.

The 80s fashion is back and this is a fact. Just as with the 90s, the endless cycle of the world of trends and the audiovisual material we consume day after day shape and anticipate what we are going to wear over the coming months. We live in a globalised society in which we are influenced by other cultures, we know our past better and we are committed to looking towards a better future.

In this way, we observe how trends follow a cyclical path through which they are renewed as the different decades go by to reappear after a few years adapted to the new times. This has been demonstrated by the firms that have paraded in the latest fashion weeks, with collections inspired by past decades and classic pieces from the 80s.

1. Shoulder pads

One of the trends most associated with the eighties is shoulder pads. This autumn we will be able to see shirts and jackets structured with XL shoulder pads that will bring class and empowerment to women.

A mighty look, shoulder pads give body and seriousness to any style. They also allow you to play with elements such as studs, bows and volumes. Several major fashion brands have already adapted this trend to their new collections, creating jackets, jackets, dresses and even shirts with this element that reminds us so much of the 80s.

2. puffed sleeves

The puffed sleeves, those that are more extended and wider than the original pattern, are back on trend this year. Although they are very typical of the 80s, we saw their boom a few years ago, during 2018. Now, they are back reinvented in vaporous fabrics and romantic style dresses. Although, following the 80s aesthetic, we can also find them in sporty looks.

Garments with this type of sleeve, especially shirts and dresses, allow you to elevate any style quickly and easily. It’s a way to give a different touch to an outfit without going too far off the beaten track, although, as we’ve seen, they can also be combined in street style and more informal looks.

3. The sporty look and bomber jackets.

The sport trend has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially since the pandemic. With the decline of social life and the rise of the internet and teleworking, people have been looking for comfort in their clothing. Having freedom of movement and feeling good are the main features we now need in our clothes. Therefore, it is not surprising to see how sporty styling is gaining more and more prominence on the big catwalks.

Tracksuits, trainers and sweatshirts are some of the garments that we have seen the most in recent fashion weeks. Likewise, the bomber jackets, which were very fashionable a few years ago, are back on the catwalks and in the shops.

4. The metallic and shiny fabric

One of the eighties trends that is making a strong comeback is glitter: in the form of sequins, stones, crystals… The more it shines, the better. That’s why metallic fabrics will be a must-have this coming season.

We can find them in all kinds of garments: from T-shirts to dresses and skirts. It allows us to play with colours and we can find tones that remind us of metals such as gold or silver, but also different shades such as pinks, greens or blues.

5. Geometric shapes

When we talk about the 80s it is impossible not to remember the mythical geometric prints with triangles, rectangles, waves and even other shapes such as stars or hearts. This autumn we are going to see the return of this type of designs, especially in jackets and T-shirts, but also in other garments such as mini-dresses and mini-skirts.

Although there are brands that go for neutral colours such as black and white, many firms go even further into the eighties trends to create colourful and vibrant prints in pinks, oranges, blues and greens.

6. Volumes through flyers

Puffed sleeves are part of the types of volumes that were worn in the 80s, but, par excellence, the most popular was the flared sleeves. This shape can be adapted to many garments: dresses, skirts, shirts… And it creates an optical illusion of movement and fluidity.

This season we will be able to see smaller and more subtle ruffles, but also maxi ruffles, which are going to become the stars of the outfits. The simpler ones are perfect for a more casual look, while the larger ones are perfect for a more formal outfit, for example for a wedding guest.

7. The oversize.

As we have seen, in the 80s fashion was very much based on opulence and majesty. That’s why oversize garments are going to be the stars of the coming autumn. Jackets, coats, trousers, shirts… We will be able to see all kinds of clothes in this relaxed style that brings freshness to any outfit.

8. Jewellery: oversize, with geometric shapes and glitter.

The jewellery in the current collections inspired by the 1980s brings together three of the most emblematic trends: oversize, as they tend to be large and eye-catching, with geometric shapes such as triangles or squares, and with lots of sparkles. In general, they are designed to be eye-catching and complete the look in a sensational way.

Above all, we will be able to see large earrings and necklaces, as shown by Gucci, although bracelets and chunky rings, or XXL rings, will also play a leading role. Most of them are made of crystals or shiny metals, but we will also find them in striking colours and shades.