General Style Guidelines

• The basics of an '80s look are simple clothing articles that you may have in your closet. Popular looks of the decade included neon colors, oversize sweatshirts, band T-shirts, spandex pants, headbands, mesh clothing and ripped, acid-washed jeans. These basic pieces can be combined in any manner to produce a distinctly '80s outfit.
  
  

Women's Looks

• One popular women's '80s costume comes from the 1983 film "Flashdance." To achieve this look, wear tights or leggings underneath large, baggy leg warmers. Cut the collar out of a large T-shirt or sweatshirt to widen the neckline so that one of your shoulders emerges from the top. Add a headband for a perfect final touch. Another costume alternative is to design a rave outfit by layering different neon and mesh shirts. Add glow-in-the-dark bangles and accessories wherever possible.
  
  

Men's Looks

• To dress like an '80s rock star, wear ripped, acid-washed jeans along with a band T-shirt. Sunglasses and a mullet will make the look even more distinct. Another popular costume of the decade is modeled after singer Michael Jackson. To emulate the pop legend, wear tight black pants, a white T-shirt, a leather jacket and a single white glove.
  
  

Hairstyles

• An essential element of '80s fashion is hairstyle. Women can achieve a puffy, elaborate style that mimics a perm with a curling iron and copious amounts of hairspray. Another alternative is to mimic crimping by braiding long, wet hair before bedtime, and combing out the braids in the morning. The frizzy, high-volume look was also popular among men, who used mousse extensively to puff up their hairstyles. If these options prove too difficult, a simple alternative for women is the iconic side ponytail.