What Did Kids Wear in the 80s: A Blast from the Past

30 Mar 2024

Remember leg warmers, shoulder pads, and neon colors? The 80s were a time of bold fashion choices, and kids were at the forefront of it all. From the rise of iconic brands to the influence of music videos, 80s kids fashion was a unique blend of self-expression, pop culture, and, let's be honest, some questionable trends.

The 80s saw a surge in kids having a say in what they wore. No longer content with simple hand-me-downs, kids began influencing family shopping trips, demanding the latest trends they saw on their favorite TV shows and music videos. This shift in consumer power fueled the growth of brands like Esprit, Benetton, and Guess, known for their colorful and often logo-heavy designs.

Music played a significant role in shaping 80s kids' fashion. From the ripped jeans and leather jackets of rockers like Bon Jovi to the neon colors and tracksuits inspired by pop stars like Madonna, music videos became a source of fashion inspiration. Kids emulated their idols, incorporating elements of rock, pop, and hip-hop into their wardrobes.

So, what exactly did kids wear in the 80s? Think bold colors, graphic prints, and a whole lot of denim. Acid wash jeans were a staple, paired with oversized sweatshirts, leggings with leg warmers (yes, really!), and high-top sneakers. Girls rocked jelly shoes, leggings with stirrups, and oversized earrings, while boys sported Members Only jackets, parachute pants, and mullets (some things are best left in the past).

Looking back, 80s kids' fashion may seem over-the-top or even comical by today's standards. But it was a time of experimentation and self-expression, a celebration of individuality that continues to influence fashion today. The 80s remind us that fashion is cyclical, and what was once considered "out" can become a source of inspiration for future generations. So, dust off your old mixtapes, put on your brightest neon, and take a trip back to the iconic fashion era that was the 1980s.

Advantages and Disadvantages of 80s Kids' Fashion

Advantages	Disadvantages
Expressive and Individualistic	Often Impractical and Uncomfortable
Bright and Eye-Catching	Prone to Fads and Short-Lived Trends
Inspired Creativity and DIY Fashion	Could Be Expensive to Keep Up with Trends

Common Questions About What Kids Wore in the 80s:

1. What were the most popular shoes in the 80s?

High-top sneakers (Converse, Reebok), jelly shoes, and Vans were all the rage.

2. Did kids really wear neon colors?

Absolutely! Neon pink, green, yellow—the brighter, the better.

3. What were some popular hairstyles for kids?

Think side ponytails, crimped hair, and, of course, the infamous mullet.

4. Where did kids buy their clothes in the 80s?

Department stores like Sears and JCPenney were popular, as well as specialty stores like Esprit and Benetton.

5. What were some popular accessories?

Leg warmers, scrunchies, oversized earrings, wristbands, and friendship bracelets were essential 80s accessories.

6. Were there any specific trends for boys and girls?

While there was some overlap, girls often wore leggings, oversized tops, and jelly shoes, while boys favored jeans, graphic tees, and sneakers.

7. How did music influence 80s fashion?

Music videos played a huge role! Kids copied the looks of their favorite pop stars and rock bands.

8. Is 80s fashion making a comeback?

Many 80s trends, like high-waisted jeans, neon colors, and statement earrings, have made a resurgence in recent years.

The 80s were a time of bold fashion statements and unforgettable trends. While some looks might make us cringe today, there's no denying the impact 80s kids' fashion had on the way we view self-expression and individuality in clothing. So, the next time you're putting together an outfit, don't be afraid to channel your inner 80s kid and embrace a little bit of that retro flair!