Back to the Future:  1980s Return For Fall

By Alisa Welch
September 1st, 2008

If you haven't noticed, the 80s are here to stay.  The over the top spirit of the Reagan-era has influenced the runways, music, and even made its way to fall’s television primetime line-up with the resurrection 90210. Thankfully, the less fabulous parts of the 80s have been left to our memories (rattails, I'm talking to you) and the best trends of the era seem modern and fresh thanks to some updates. 

Preppy (Ironically, of Course)

The Official Preppy Handbook, published in 1980 as a parody, nonetheless heralded a serious age of Oxfords and penny loafers, not to mention obnoxious fake upper crust accents. Translate fall's preppy looks with a dash of irony by mixing buttoned-up looks with decidedly sexy shapes. I'm in love with the curvy ease and of Old Navy's Belted Rugby Stripe dress, as well as the Ivy League-ready chocolate R and D vest by Penguin that begs to be paired with a crisp button-up. 

Stolen from Grandma and Grandpa’s Closet

Thrift shops rivaled malls as the places to find fashions, which meant fashion forward folks raided their grandparents’ closets for oversized sweaters, flowery house dresses and plaids straight from the Atomic Age. Designers are taking their cues from these closet plunders with updated styles like C&C California's cozy Helena sweater that calls out for Kimchi's gauzy and flowery Botanical print dress.

Rock of Ages

The 80s were the golden age of the rock T-shirt. Plenty of new, less moth-bitten tees can be had, but for the true experience, check out eBay for vintage concert tees from your favorite stadium rockers such as Journey, Boston, or Aerosmith that can be had for under $50.  New or vintage, nothing says you’ve been smoking in the boy's room like a well-loved Iron Maiden tee.  If your tastes sway more towards Electric Boogaloo than Pyromania, check out Eldon’s electric blue T-shirt featuring totally tubular 80s graphics and cassette tapes.  Pair your tee with Forever 21's black and white plaid vest with detachable hood, some parachute pants, and you’ve got the look.

The Patchoulius Raglan T-Shirt Tops By Paul Frank ($28)

3/4 sleeve baseball raglan tee with screen print on front; 100% cotton.