Popular Accessories In The 80s: Must-Have Fashion Items

Introduction: The Bold 80s Fashion Scene

The 1980s was a decade known for excess, creativity, and self-expression. Fashion trends during this time were influenced by a variety of cultural shifts, including the rise of the music video, the glam rock scene, and iconic stars like Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Prince. Accessories, in particular, played a crucial role in defining the era’s vibrant and eclectic fashion sense.

In the 80s, bigger was better, and this applied to everything from clothing to accessories. Think of large, eye-catching jewelry, bold headgear, and footwear that was as much about style as it was about comfort. As we take a deeper look at the popular accessories of the 80s, it’s clear how these items helped people make a powerful fashion statement, transforming their everyday outfits into something extraordinary.

Iconic 80s Jewelry

Jewelry in the 1980s was all about bold, attention-grabbing pieces. This was the era when bigger was better, and accessories were not meant to be subtle. Below are some of the most iconic jewelry trends of the decade.

Oversized Earrings

Oversized earrings were one of the defining accessories of the 80s. Huge hoops, chunky chandelier earrings, and bold geometric shapes became the must-have items for fashion-conscious individuals. These earrings could be worn to add flair to everyday outfits or paired with evening wear to make a dramatic statement. Stars like Madonna and Cyndi Lauper were often seen sporting large, attention-grabbing earrings, and they quickly became an essential part of 80s fashion.

Chunky Necklaces

Chunky, layered necklaces were another major accessory trend in the 80s. These pieces were often made from bold materials like plastic, gold, and silver, with large pendants or statement charms. The more layers, the better! Bold, chunky chains paired with neon-colored beads or rhinestones added a pop of color and texture to outfits.

Brooches and Pins

Brooches made a huge comeback in the 80s, often used as embellishments on jackets or shirts. Floral designs, animal motifs, and large jeweled pins were common and were worn to create a personalized, eclectic look. Celebrities like Princess Diana and Joan Collins were often seen sporting brooches, contributing to their rise in popularity.

Must-Have 80s Hair Accessories

Hair accessories were just as important as the outfits themselves in the 80s. From the voluminous hair that defined the era to the colorful scrunchies, these accessories helped create the bold looks that were all the rage.

Scrunchies

The scrunchie is perhaps the most iconic 80s hair accessory. These fabric-covered elastic bands were used to hold hair in place while adding an extra element of style. Available in a variety of fabrics, colors, and sizes, scrunchies were a fun way to complement a high ponytail or messy updo. The scrunchie had a major resurgence in recent years, thanks to its 80s nostalgia.

Headbands

Wide, fabric headbands were incredibly popular in the 80s. Whether used to tame wild curls or add flair to an already-stylish look, headbands were versatile and functional. The headband trend was largely inspired by fitness culture, especially aerobic workout videos, and it became a regular feature in daily fashion.

Hair Clips and Barrettes

Brightly colored hair clips and barrettes were another significant part of 80s fashion. They were often worn in clusters to add volume and texture to hairstyles. From neon-colored plastic clips to metallic barrettes adorned with rhinestones, these accessories added a youthful, playful element to the look.

Fashionable 80s Belts

Belts were more than just functional in the 80s—they were a style statement. The right belt could cinch a waist, define a silhouette, and add character to an outfit.

Wide, Statement Belts

Wide, often oversized belts became a central part of 80s fashion, especially when paired with high-waisted pants or skirts. These belts were sometimes adorned with large buckles and used to create an hourglass shape. Popularized by style icons like Madonna, these belts were often worn on the outside of jackets or dresses to create a bold fashion statement.

Cinch Belts

Cinch belts were used to accentuate the waist, often paired with loose-fitting tops or oversized jackets. These belts came in a variety of materials, including leather, fabric, and even chains, and were meant to give the impression of a more defined figure.

80s Bags and Purses

The 80s saw a variety of bag styles, from casual to sophisticated, reflecting the diversity of fashion trends during the decade. The most popular bags of the 80s were functional but bold in design.

Fanny Packs

Though fanny packs may have been mocked in later decades, in the 80s, they were a must-have accessory. Often worn around the waist for practical reasons, fanny packs came in a variety of styles and materials, from neon-colored versions to leather designs. Celebrities and tourists alike embraced this accessory for its combination of practicality and style.

Leather Crossbody Bags

Leather crossbody bags were another popular choice in the 80s. These bags were sleek, functional, and stylish, often featuring long straps that allowed for hands-free carrying. The classic leather crossbody became a staple for both casual and semi-formal outfits.

Stylish 80s Footwear Accessories

Footwear in the 80s was often as bold as the rest of the outfit, with accessories like socks and leg warmers taking center stage.

High Socks and Leg Warmers

Leg warmers, often worn over tights or leggings, were an iconic 80s accessory that paired well with high heels or sneakers. They were often worn with casual or athleisure outfits to add a fun, energetic touch. High socks, often in bold patterns or colors, were also paired with skirts or shorts for a youthful, sporty look.

Neon Sneakers and High-Tops

The 80s saw a boom in sneaker culture, with colorful, high-top sneakers becoming popular. Brands like Nike and Reebok dominated the market, and neon sneakers became a signature accessory, especially in the realms of hip-hop and street style.

Hats And Headwear In The 80s

Hats were a crucial accessory in the 80s, offering both style and function. Different types of hats gained prominence throughout the decade, from sportswear-inspired caps to more elegant berets.

Baseball Caps

Baseball caps, particularly those with bold logos or slogans, were a major trend in the 80s. These caps were often worn backwards or tilted, adding a touch of rebellion to an outfit. The sportswear aesthetic was particularly popular in the early 80s, thanks to hip-hop culture and athleisure.

Berets and Bandanas

Berets and bandanas were also fashionable head accessories in the 80s. Berets were popularized by musicians and artists, while bandanas were tied around the head or worn as neck scarves for a more casual, rugged look.

Sunglasses And Eyewear

Sunglasses were an essential accessory in the 80s, both for functional reasons and as a way to make a fashion statement.

Aviator Sunglasses

Aviator sunglasses, with their distinctive teardrop shape, became a timeless accessory in the 80s. Worn by rock stars, actors, and everyday people, aviators were the go-to pair for those wanting to add a bit of cool to their look.

Cat-Eye Glasses

Cat-eye glasses made a huge comeback in the 80s, often in bold colors and oversized frames. These glasses became synonymous with the glam and vintage-inspired fashion of the time.

The Power Of The 80s Accessory Trend

The accessories of the 80s helped define the bold, extravagant aesthetic that dominated the decade. They allowed individuals to express their personalities, social status, and creativity through their fashion choices. Whether it was a pair of neon scrunchies or a statement necklace, these accessories contributed to the larger-than-life feel of the 1980s.

Conclusion

The 1980s was a decade that embraced bold fashion choices, and accessories played an integral role in completing these looks. From oversized jewelry to functional but fashionable bags, the right accessory could take an outfit from simple to spectacular. Many of these trends have seen a resurgence in recent years, a testament to their lasting influence on fashion. Whether you were a fan of the neon-colored, punk-inspired trends or the more preppy styles, one thing is for sure: the accessories of the 80s were anything but subtle.

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FAQs

What is the most iconic accessory from the 80s?

The most iconic accessory from the 80s would likely be the scrunchie. This fabric-covered hair elastic became a symbol of the decade, widely recognized for its bold, fun design and vibrant colors.

Why were oversized earrings popular in the 80s?

Oversized earrings were a key part of 80s fashion because they helped make bold fashion statements. Celebrities like Madonna embraced them, and they became synonymous with the vibrant, rebellious spirit of the decade.

What was the role of fanny packs in 80s fashion?

Fanny packs were popular for their convenience and functionality, allowing people to carry their essentials while adding a playful, sporty touch to their outfits.

How did leg warmers become a fashion statement in the 80s?

Originally designed for dancers, leg warmers became a major fashion statement in the 80s, popularized by fitness culture and music videos. They were often worn over tights or leggings and paired with sneakers for a casual, athletic look.

Were statement belts essential in 80s fashion?

Yes, statement belts, especially wide and cinch belts, were essential in 80s fashion. They helped define the waistline and add a bold touch to outfits, often worn over jackets or dresses.