In this turbulent decade, many things were loud and outlandish. No wonder artists expressed themselves accordingly through their music. The pop we know today was shaped by megastars such as Madonna and Michael Jackson. The lyrics were wild, captivating, and political, while the melodies invited people to dance. And when the stars were not onstage, newspapers were filled with headlines about their excesses.

The punk of the 1970s evolved into a cool, detached New Wave. The
once-marginal rock genre became popular and drew crowds of people to
stadiums. For the first time, electronic music also made its widespread debut on the charts, and a new kind of spoken singing developed—the rap.

The innovative musical decade was ushered in in 1981 by former Genesis member Phil Collins with his song “In the Air Tonight.” Just one year later, Micheal Jackson released “Thriller”—to this day, the most successful album in pop history. The King of Pop broke new ground and set the direction for his competitors. He regularly battled with his fiercest rival, Prince, for the top spots on the charts. Songs such as “Purple Rain” and “Kiss” captivated audiences.

Alongside the two 1980s peacocks, Madonna used her feminine charms in addition to catchy songs. Even today, “Holiday” and “Like a Virgin” remain popular worldwide.

In England, New Wave developed with the use of synthesizers. Depeche Mode played their way to the forefront of the new electronic movement.

Many 1980s hits are still widely enjoyed, their rhythms remain infectious, and they liven up every party.

Striking: That is how the typical outfits of the ’80s can be described in one word. Bright colors and graphic patterns were trendy. They were paired with either bell-bottoms or carrot-leg trousers, which were unflattering to the figure but iconic nonetheless. Shirts, blouses, and blazers could be oversized. The fabric was then simply tamed with a wide waist belt. Tulle and fishnet stockings were also extremely popular.

Dance films such as Flashdance, Dirty Dancing, and Footloose caused a sensation. So it is no wonder that many women wore colorful leggings with leg warmers and bodysuits for aerobics—much to the delight of men. In fashion, the contrasts can be seen in skin-tight aerobics clothing and oversized tops, preferably with broad shoulder pads. It was common to incorporate masculine elements into women’s clothing—even dresses. Men, on the other hand, could also wear hip-emphasizing carrot-leg trousers or pleated trousers.

Alongside broad shoulders, the ruffled blouse with puff sleeves came back into fashion. Patent leather and leather were also highly sought-after, as were metallic colors. Glitter and glamour are part of every good ’80s outfit. Whether glittering fabric, sequins, or jewelry: there is no need to think twice— the more, the more dazzling. The hip ’80s girl can easily rival a decorated Christmas tree with XXL hoop earrings, bangles, and chains. Naturally, neon colors are also highly popular here.

- Leggings, leg warmers, bodysuit, and headband

- Carrot-leg pants and puff sleeves

- Oversized blazers, blouses, and tops with shoulder pads

- Waist belt

- Colorful tracksuit

Bright, bold, and high-contrast: That’s how 1980s makeup can be described. Just like the outfits and music, creativity and a flair for the eye-catching were expressed through eyeshadow and lipstick. The garish neon colors that usually glow under black light can be found here too. You don’t have to choose between emphasizing your eyes or your lips. The rule is: the more, the better. Make up both.

Eyeshadow is especially important for successful 1980s makeup. Choose bright colors such as blue, green, yellow, and pink. Neon is in. Don’t be timid—the colors should shine. Two or more shades can even blend into each other, such as green and blue or pink and yellow. Black eyeliner or kohl intensifies the effect even further. Black mascara completes a garish eye makeup look.

Lipstick can be bold too. Contrasts are preferred. Pink lipstick looks great with blue or yellow shades. If your eyes are made up in green or very dark shades, bright red lipstick completes the ensemble. For the finishing touch, add some glossy lip gloss.

Blush on the cheeks should not be subtle. Striking reds and pinks are standard.

Alongside the vividly colorful makeup, the goth look also emerged. Dark colors such as black and dark gray play an important role here. You can create contrasts with lipstick, such as red or violet. Or you can stick with black.

Hairstyles fit into the overall look of the ’80s in a bold and colorful way. Wild manes, asymmetrical styles, and fancy accessories: you could see all kinds of curiosities on the streets and in the clubs. Now considered styling faux pas, hairstyles such as the mullet, crimped waves, and neon colors were all the rage. These hairstyles are reminiscent of iconic films such as E.T., Ghostbusters, and Dirty Dancing.

The desire to be seen defined the decade. So it is only understandable that hairstyles were also eye-catching. Colors such as neon pink, toxic green, and purple were not uncommon. They were joined by asymmetrical cuts enhanced with plenty of volume. A lion’s mane was quickly created.

For men, the mullet was highly popular. The hair was cut short at the front and left long at the back. Unwearable nowadays, the hairstyle was iconic back then. Some women also wore the mullet. It was even developed further by tying the strands into a braid: the rat tail.

Alongside crimped hair, curls and flowing, long hair
were popular. If you prefer it short, a side part or a popper quiff might be interesting. So for the party, you do not have to painstakingly grow your hair out. If you still want a long hairstyle, there are plenty of wigs in an ’80s style.