When it comes to men’s style, the 1980s were a revolutionary decade. Bold colors, sharp tailoring, and iconic trends dominated the scene, making 80s fashion for men one of the most distinctive eras in style history.
While some aspects of the 80s (neon tracksuits, anyone?) have been retired for good reason, many timeless pieces and influences remain relevant today.
In this guide, I’ll be breaking out the key elements of 80s fashion for men that can seamlessly blend into your modern wardrobe. From casual wear to formal attire, this is your ultimate guide to bringing the best of the 80s into the 21st century.
Why 80s Fashion for Men Still Works
The enduring appeal of 80s fashion for men lies in its versatility. Many of the decade’s trends—structured tailoring, iconic outerwear, and statement accessories—are timeless staples that can be styled in countless ways. By mixing these elements with modern pieces, you can create outfits that are both nostalgic and current.
Incorporating 80s style into your wardrobe doesn’t mean dressing like you’re headed to a costume party. It’s about understanding the principles of the decade—boldness, confidence, and attention to detail—and making them work for you today.
So whether you’re looking to upgrade your office attire with a power suit, elevate your weekend style with a leather jacket, or add a touch of retro charm with accessories, the 80s have plenty to offer.
80s Fashion For Men: Power Suits
The 80s were the era of power dressing, especially in professional settings.
Businessmen aimed to project authority, and this meant suits with sharp, structured shoulders, broad lapels, and a commanding fit. Think Gordon Gekko from Wall Street or Richard Gere in American Gigolo.
How to Wear It Today:
While oversized shoulders might feel dated, a modernized version of the power suit can work wonders. Look for tailored suits with structured shoulders, but ensure the fit hugs your body for a contemporary silhouette.
Stick to classic colors like charcoal gray, navy, or black, and add subtle pinstripes for an authentic nod to 80s fashion for men.
80s Fashion For Men: The Leather Jacket
The leather jacket has been a staple in men’s wardrobes for decades, but the 80s gave it a rebellious edge.
From Michael Jackson’s red leather in Thriller to Tom Cruise’s bomber in Top Gun, this was the go-to piece for men who wanted to make a bold statement.
How to Wear It Today:
A high-quality leather jacket remains a versatile and stylish choice. For a modern twist on 80s style, opt for clean lines and a minimalist design.
The classic black biker jacket or a sleek brown bomber will channel the decade’s vibe without looking outdated. Pair it with slim-fit jeans and a plain white tee for a timeless weekend look.
80s Fashion For Men: Pants And Jackets
In the 80s, denim was everywhere. Double denim (denim jacket and jeans combo) was particularly popular, as were acid-washed and ripped styles. Celebrities like Bruce Springsteen and Harrison Ford showcased how rugged and masculine denim could be.
How to Wear It Today:
While acid-wash jeans may not be for everyone, you can incorporate 80s fashion for men by embracing classic denim jackets and dark-wash jeans.
Avoid overly baggy fits and aim for a slim or straight leg for a cleaner look. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a modern take on the double-denim trend by mixing different shades, like a light-wash jacket with dark-wash jeans.
80s Fashion For Men: Bold Graphic T Shirts
Graphic tees were a hallmark of casual 80s fashion for men. Band shirts, pop culture references, and bold logos made T-shirts more than just an underlayer—they became a statement piece.
How to Wear It Today:
Graphic tees remain as stylish as ever, but today’s approach is more refined. Opt for vintage-inspired designs that reference your favorite bands or subtle retro prints. Pair these with neutral chinos or jeans for balance.
The key is to avoid overly loud designs and focus on graphics that have a timeless appeal.
80s Fashion For Men: Ivy League Style
The 80s saw a surge in preppy style, thanks to brands like Ralph Lauren, Lacoste, and Tommy Hilfiger.
Polo shirts, chinos, and crewneck sweaters draped over shoulders became synonymous with this clean-cut aesthetic.
How to Wear It Today:
Preppy style never truly goes out of fashion. To modernize this 80s fashion for men trend, stick to well-fitted polos in neutral tones or pastel shades.
Pair them with slim chinos or tailored shorts for a polished, yet casual look. A lightweight sweater tied over your shoulders can still work today, but make sure it’s done with subtlety.
80s Fashion For Men: Retro Tracksuits and Sneakers
Athletic wear was a massive part of 80s fashion for men. Brightly colored tracksuits, headbands, and high-top sneakers were everywhere, from gym classes to the streets.
How to Wear It Today:
While neon tracksuits might be a bit much for today’s style, you can embrace the retro-athleisure vibe with subtle nods.
Think clean, monochromatic tracksuits or retro sneakers like Adidas Superstars or Nike Air Jordans. High-tops paired with slim-fit jeans or joggers can create a casual yet stylish outfit.
80s Fashion For Men: Trench Coats and Overcoats
From the iconic beige trench coats of detectives in 80s films to oversized overcoats, outerwear was designed to make a statement. These pieces added drama and sophistication to any outfit.
How to Wear It Today:
The trench coat is as relevant now as it was in the 80s. Look for streamlined designs with minimal embellishments to keep the focus on the coat’s timeless appeal.
Neutral colors like camel, navy, or black work best. Pair your trench with tailored trousers or dark denim for a sharp, modern look inspired by 80s fashion for men.
80s Fashion For Men: The Finishing Touches
No discussion of 80s fashion for men is complete without mentioning accessories. Aviator sunglasses, digital watches, and leather belts with bold buckles were staples of the era.
How to Wear It Today:
Stick to one or two statement accessories to avoid overloading your outfit.
A classic pair of aviator or wayfarer sunglasses instantly adds a touch of 80s cool. For watches, consider retro-style digital options like Casio or a minimalist leather-strap timepiece.
80s Fashion For Men: Bold Patterns
Men in the 80s weren’t afraid of bold patterns and vibrant colors. Hawaiian shirts, plaid blazers, and bright knitwear were just a few of the standout trends.
How to Wear It Today:
Incorporate bold patterns sparingly to keep your outfit balanced. A patterned shirt paired with neutral trousers or a colorful pocket square added to a gray blazer can give a nod to the 80s without feeling over the top.
The key is to let one piece be the focal point while keeping the rest of your look understated.
80s Fashion For Men: Pop Star Style
Finally, much of 80s fashion for men was driven by pop culture. From the rugged looks of action heroes like Arnold Schwarzenegger to the sleek styles of pop icons like Prince, men’s fashion was as varied as the entertainment of the era.
How to Wear It Today:
Take inspiration from your favorite 80s icons but adapt it for the modern day. Love the rugged appeal of action stars?
Stick to basics like leather boots, cargo pants, and a durable jacket. Admire the boldness of pop stars? Experiment with unique textures like velvet or suede in small doses.
80s fashion for men was all about making a statement, and that’s a principle that never goes out of style. By incorporating select elements from this iconic decade into your wardrobe, you can create a look that feels fresh, confident, and timeless.
Remember, the key to pulling off any look—whether inspired by the 80s or not—is confidence. When you wear your clothes with self-assurance, you’ll turn heads for all the right reasons.