Period 1 March 30, 2012 merican Studies Fashion in the 80s: Why the 1980s Was the Most Influential Fashion Era No one will forget the times of padded shoulders, Members Only jackets, Doc Martens, and neon.
That’s why the 1980s were the most influential of all eras in regards to fashion. The great importance of the 80s, in regards to fashion, is shown by the fashion icons on the day, the era of fashion shows, and specific trends still reflected today. Fashion icons in the 80s made a huge impact on the fashion industry. They collectively pushed the industry to the peak of culture. One example is Madonna.She impacted the pop culture and forever affected high end fashion.
In her music videos, she wore clothes that were more risque than previously worn. She also empowered women to be individual and think outside of the box. (4) For most, Madonna was much more than just a mere music star. She became inspiration for American women to feel confident.
This ultimately was reflected in their fashion choices. Madonna not only had signature look but included bits of fashion from all aspects of 80s society (2). In addition to Madonna, another fashion icon was Michael Jackson. He also contributed to the fashion popularity in the 80s.He showed fashion in all of his music videos, concerts and appearances.
Another reason why he was very important to American culture is that he contributed to men’s fashion, which was often overlooked in society. (2) Jackson soon became a large fashion icon for men. Both of these examples of fashion idols are very famous and will never be forgotten. They show how innovative and unique the 80s were to the industry.
The led the wave of fashion that was the 1980s. Additionally, the 80s was the era of the fashion show. It showed how upbeat, inventive and electrified the era really was.Fashion shows in the 80s were fun and playful, and they always included upbeat music and skillful dancers. (3) They were conspicuous, often, and easy to access. The shows were often hosted and popularized by very famous people and designers.
They include Mr. T, Halston, Calvin Klein, Mary McFadden, Armani, and Ralph Lauren. (6) The shows would influence the nation to follow new trends because they helped diffuse style from large fashion nodes such as New York and Chicago to all areas of America. (5) No other era had fashion shows like the 80s.
They were extremely influential and brought high end fashion to America.Combined, they lead to a permanent place in today’s society. Specific trends in the 1980s are still reflected in today’s society. Modern day fashion shows still have items and accents from the 1980s. (1) Many are the layered patterns and colors that were so common.
In addition, clothes and hair from the 80s have also been shown. Many women sport large teased hair and leggings like the generation before them. In addition, neon is popularized with many designers. Not only are American consumers and designers trying to connect to the fashion, but also the feeling that goes with. 1) Many are not ready to let go of such fun glamorized and popular trends.
The 1980s were the most powerful of all American eras. This is evident by the unforgettable fashion icons, effective fashion shows, and specific trends still reflected in the modern world. It is not only essential to recognize the power that the 80s fashion industry still holds in today, but also why it was such a success. (2) 80s fashion gave the average American reason to believe that they can leave behind a dull lifestyle for one that was gold and glamorized.
The culture was brought together to fabricate what will always be the most influential fashion era of America. Works Cited 1. "80s Fashion Makes Another Comeback. " Fashion Police Blog: The World's Worst Fashion Trends! Web.
22 Apr. 2012. ;http://www. thefashionpolice.
net/2012/03/80s-fashion-trends-comeback. html;. 2. Batchelor, Bob, and Scott Stoddart.
The 1980s. Westport, CT: Greenwood, 2007. Print. 3. "Fashion Week History: The 1970s and 80s.
" Truth Plus. Web. 22 Apr. 2012. ;http://truthplusblog. com/2011/09/14/fashion-week-history-the-1970s-and-80s/;.
4. Gourley, Catherine. Ms. and the Material Girls: Perceptions
