'80s Refreshed: Retro Fashion Trends Worth Trying In 2023

Y2K fashion has had a chokehold on us for the longest time, but ‘80s trends have been creeping up fast - and we are lowkey obsessed. 

“Dopamine dressing” is the best way to describe the fashion of that era, when colours were bright, silhouettes were dramatic and maximalism thrived. Ahead, we’ve curated eight ‘80s-inspired trends that we have to try out this season based on red carpet moments, celebrity outfits and the best runway looks we've this year so far. 

Hooded Dresses

Related article: Milan Men’s Fashion Week: 7 Trends To Watch For Fall/Winter 2023

Popularised in the ‘80s by legendary Bond girl Grace Jones, who wore hooded designs by Alaïa both on and off the runway, women fell head over heels for the these designs' mysterious allure and unprecedented glamour. Today, we’ve seen celebrities such as Anne Hathaway and Jenna Ortega take red carpets by storm looking drop-dead gorgeous in hooded dresses.

Full Denim

Also known as a Canadian tuxedo, denim-on-denim looks are experiencing a huge resurgence, screaming effortless confidence with no fear of being a fashion faux pas. Both established and independent labels such as Balenciaga, Louis Vuitton and Asai have joined the party with avant-garde designs. 

Overalls

The “worker’s uniform” trend was also a hit in the ‘80s, and it's no longer reserved for those dealing with manual labour. The garment takes minimal effort to throw on, but serves better looks than any plain 'ol casual outfit; just ask Kourtney Kardashian. Of course, overalls in 2023 have been elevated with different materials, such as Isabel Marant's chic leather approach, or reimagined as officewear by the likes of Alexander McQueen. 

Fanny Packs

Related article: 20 Celebrity-Approved Stealth Wealth Bags Worth Every Penny

Ridiculous, we know, but the humble fanny pack has been gaining a lot of traction lately with celebrities such as Camila Cabello going viral for slinging one on like a crossbody. We don’t have to don retro neon-hued belt bags, however; we can opt for a more timeless design such as the Fendi Baguette or go the artsy route with a triangular pouch attachment like Ganni’s, instead. 

Shoulder Pads

What would the ‘80s even be without the iconic shoulder pads? Joan Collins circa 1981 to 1989, starring in the hit TV soap opera Dynasty, immediately comes to mind. Her fiery, seductive energy is perpetuated by her extravagant wardrobe, gravitating towards tiny waistlines and oversized shoulders to signify her matriarch status.

Lace Tights

Thanks to the rise of aerobics, leggings and their cousin – sheer tights – were all the rage. Today, they get a new lease on life with graphic prints, as seen on the runways of Chanel, Mugler and Luar, with added depth to their looks. These aren't just your regular undergarments. 

Bubble Hems

Related article: 7 Ways To Rock Jorts In 2023 Like Never Before

Whimsical and ethereal, bubble-hemmed skirts entered the mainstream after Madonna and Princess Diana were photographed in them back in the day. The poofy silhouette is still beloved for its campy nature, finding a prominent space in the collections of Jacquemus, Proenza Schouler and Jason Wu. 

Polka Dots

Similarly, polka dots became the most popular pattern of the ‘80s due to the playfulness and innocence they exude. These dots are popping up everywhere this year, from Louis Vuitton’s collaboration with Yayoi Kusama to Valentino’s Fall/Winter 2023 collection, as well as the runway show by Olivier Rousteing's Balmain, which went down a more reflective route.