The ’80s gave us a lot — power suits, bold prints, big hair, bigger earrings — and a few fashion moments we’d rather leave in the past.
But like all trends, what goes out often comes back in — just not always in the same way. Some ’80s styles are making a chic return with modern updates that feel fresh and wearable. Others? Let’s just say they haven’t aged quite as gracefully.
If you’re wondering which retro pieces are worth revisiting and which ones are quietly aging your look, you’re not alone. The key is knowing how to bring back the best of the decade — with cleaner cuts, better fabrics, and a little less… hairspray.
Here are 7 ’80s trends that may be dating your style — and 6 that are officially cool again in 2025.
1. Shoulder Pads (In Excess)
Remember the towering shoulder pads from the 1980s that seemed to defy gravity? These fashion relics, often seen on power suits, add an exaggerated frame that can inadvertently lead to an aged or costume-like appearance. The added bulk tends to eclipse natural body proportions, making them a challenging choice in today’s fashion landscape.
For a modern twist, consider opting for blazers that offer a hint of shoulder structure. This delivers a chic, tailored look without overwhelming the figure. By balancing volume with a streamlined silhouette, fashion lovers can maintain an air of sophistication without harking back to outdated styles.
2. Neon Everything
Neon ruled the ’80s with its electrifying hues, but dressing in highlighter shades from head to toe can be too much for the eye. Though they add vibrancy, these intense colors can also accentuate skin imperfections, leaving one looking more dated than daring.
Today’s style mavens are embracing softer pops of bold color, such as cobalt or emerald. These shades add just the right amount of flair when featured in modern, clean-cut outfits. Choosing strategic bursts of color allows you to express personality without overwhelming, ensuring a fresh and contemporary appearance.
3. Stirrup Pants
Once a staple in gym classes and casual outings, stirrup pants have been relegated to the fashion archives. Their association with outdated workout gear can make them feel out of place in today’s wardrobe. Often, they appear less stylish and more reminiscent of a bygone era.
A modern alternative is sleek leggings or tailored joggers crafted from performance fabrics. These options provide comfort and flexibility while presenting a more polished look. By swapping out stirrup pants for these contemporary designs, you can maintain an active lifestyle without sacrificing style.
4. High-Shine Lamé Dresses
High-shine lamé fabrics once lit up the dance floors of the ’80s, but they aren’t always kind to the wearer in today’s softer lighting. The reflective, glossy surfaces of these dresses can underscore skin creases, evoking more of a disco-era vibe than contemporary chic.
For those seeking a touch of glamour, consider satin or matte silk finishes instead. These materials provide a subtle yet elegant glow, ensuring you look radiant without the glare. By shifting from high-shine to softly luminous fabrics, you can maintain allure without appearing dated.
5. Matchy-Matchy Accessories
Coordinated accessories were once the hallmark of a put-together outfit, but today they can feel outdated and overly matchy-matchy. Wearing the same color for shoes, belts, bags, and earrings can scream ‘set dressing’ more than stylish.
In the modern fashion scene, mixing neutrals and featuring one standout accessory is the way to go. By allowing one piece to shine, whether it’s a statement bag or eye-catching earrings, you can achieve a more dynamic and current look. This approach adds depth and interest without dating your ensemble.
6. Over-permed Hair
The permed curls of the ’80s were big, bold, and beautiful, yet today, they can be perceived as stiff and overwhelming. Without a sense of balance, these curls can dominate the face, leading to a less contemporary appearance.
Today’s hairstyles celebrate texture and movement. Soft, voluminous waves or embracing natural hair texture are preferred, offering a modern nod to the past. By focusing on balance and softness, you can achieve a flattering hairstyle that complements rather than consumes your face.
7. Jelly Shoes or Plastic Footwear
Jelly shoes, with their playful translucence, were a summer staple during the ’80s. However, their plastic build leaves them lacking the elegance many seek today. These shoes, once novel, now often feel unsophisticated and juvenile.
Instead, consider footwear with modern clear straps or barely-there sandals in leather. These designs provide a nod to transparency while elevating the overall look with a touch of elegance. By transitioning from jelly to sophisticated styles, you can enjoy a contemporary yet nostalgic summer vibe.
8. Power Blazers
Power blazers have reemerged as a symbol of confidence and polish. When tailored correctly, with a cinched or intentionally boxy cut, these blazers lend an air of authority. Paired with denim or a slip skirt, they offer a versatile and stylish look.
This trend is celebrated for its ability to seamlessly blend the structured formality of the past with contemporary fashion sensibilities. Power blazers provide a perfect mix of nostalgia and modernity, allowing wearers to express individuality while embracing a timeless silhouette.
9. High-Waisted Trousers
High-waisted trousers elongate the legs and flatter the waistline, making them a beloved choice for many fashion-forward individuals today. These trousers pair beautifully with tucked-in shirts or cropped sweaters for a balanced silhouette.
Their resurgence can be attributed to the way they enhance the body’s natural lines, offering both comfort and style. High-waisted designs provide an elegant nod to the past while firmly placing wearers in the present, effortlessly blending retro charm with modern sophistication.
10. Statement Earrings
In 2025, statement earrings are making waves with their artistic and sculptural designs. Unlike the loud and gaudy earrings of the past, today’s versions are elegant and refined, adding a touch of drama to any outfit without overwhelming it.
These accessories serve as conversation starters, bringing a unique flair to everyday ensembles. By choosing bold yet sophisticated pieces, you can express individuality and taste. Statement earrings have become a must-have, offering a fresh and stylish way to elevate any look.
11. Denim on Denim
Denim on denim is back in vogue, with a modern twist that makes it more appealing than ever. This monochrome look is elevated with contemporary cuts and chic accessories, transforming the once retro ensemble into a forward-looking fashion statement.
By mixing different shades and textures of denim, fashion enthusiasts can create depth and interest in their outfits. The trend caters to those who appreciate a casual yet polished aesthetic, celebrating the versatility of denim in an entirely new light.
12. Bold Lipstick (Think Reds & Fuchsias)
Bold lipstick shades like reds and fuchsias are making a powerful comeback, channeling classic French-girl elegance. When paired with a fresh, minimal makeup look, bold lips become the focal point, delivering a striking yet sophisticated appearance.
This trend embraces simplicity and confidence, allowing individuals to express personality through color. By keeping the rest of the face understated, bold lipstick can shine without overpowering, making it a timeless choice for those seeking a touch of glamour.
13. Oversized Sunglasses
Oversized sunglasses are embracing drama with a contemporary twist. Instead of the butterfly styles of the past, these shades now feature sleek, architectural frames that offer a nod to retro glamour without going full vintage.
This trend allows for a bold fashion statement, protecting the eyes while adding a touch of intrigue to any ensemble. With their ability to blend form and function, oversized sunglasses remain a stylish choice for those seeking a bit of flair in their accessories.