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15 '80s Fashion Trends That Are Back

Put your hair up in a scrunchie and get ready to feel a blast from the past!

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Crop tops, shoulder pads and even fanny packs are officially cool again. Here's how to give 'em a modern spin.

1

THEN: Animal Print

1980s fashion trends that are back
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The '80s were all about big prints and bold colors. Here, actress Teri Garr walks a red carpet wearing a cool leopard print coat.

2

NOW: Animal Print

1980s fashion trends that are back
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Animal print fell out of favor during the last couple decades, but it's starting to work its way back out of the Closet Netherlands and into modern day street style. Wear it with a sleek dress and minimal accessories to keep it from looking over-the-top.

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3

THEN: Crop Tops

1980s fashion trends that are back
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Considering Madonna was one of the most influential stars of the decade, it makes sense that her midriff-baring staple was one of the '80s biggest trends.

4

NOW: Crop Tops

1980s fashion trends that are back
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These days, everyone's wearing crop tops. No matter what size you are or what styles you prefer, you can find one to rock.

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5

THEN: Power Suits

1980s fashion trends that are back
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A crisp suit with sharp shoulders was a mega-trend among businesswomen of the '80s, worn by the likes of Bianca Jagger, Grace Jones and Michelle Pfeiffer.

6

NOW: Power Suits

1980s fashion trends that are back
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Coincidentally seen here on Mick Jagger's daughter Georgia May Jagger, the power suit is now as popular as ever — and this sharp cut comes in some equally powerful colors.

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7

THEN: Shoulder Pads

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Worn by some of the biggest names of the decade, including Princess Diana, shoulder pads have practically become synonymous with the '80s.

8

NOW: Shoulder Pads

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Shoulder pads get a bad rap, but as Kerry Washington showed us on the 2016 Emmy Awards red carpet, they can offer an effortlessly elegant structure to your look.

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9

THEN: Denim Jackets

1980s fashion trends that are back
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Um, hello, who didn't have a denim jacket to throw over every single outfit? It also went perfectly with teased hair.

10

NOW: Denim Jackets

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Nowadays, this outerwear can range from totally casual to high fashion. The perfect balance, as shown on Reese Witherspoon: a sweet skirt, cool shades and a medium-wash denim number.

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11

THEN: Drop Crotch Pants

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Eighties trends aren't just back for women — there are plenty memorable looks that have returned for the guys too. Case in point: MC Hammer's classic drop crotch pants, a.k.a. "parachute pants."

12

NOW: Drop Crotch Pants

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This isn't the easiest trend to wear, but it's become increasingly popular among fashion lovers in recent years. You'll start noticing 'em on the street now that we said something!

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13

THEN: Fanny Packs

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Whether you wore a canvas number like a tourist in Disneyland or a metallic gem like model Maura Peters here, you probably owned a fanny pack at some point in the '80s.

14

NOW: Fanny Packs

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Surprise, surprise: One of the most joked-about accessories ever has returned. The goofy fabrics of days past have been replaced by chicer materials, making them a highly convenient (and socially acceptable) way to carry your stuff with any outfit.

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15

THEN: Funky Fur

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The '80s did away with the glam fur coats of the '70s, and in came vivid shades of faux furs that looked just as cool — and were cruelty-free.

16

NOW: Funky Fur

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You get the same bold colors and fluffy textures but with super-oversize silhouettes.

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17

THEN: Low Cut, High Slit Gowns

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Going bold sometimes means going a little risqué. Gowns that paired high slits in front with low necklines were all the rage.

18

NOW: Low Cut, High Slit Gowns

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This cut is still delightfully daring, but it's made more sophisticated when worn in neutral shades. (Gold counts!)

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19

THEN: All-White Ensembles

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Pop stars like Paula Abdul made head-to-toe white look effortlessly simple.

20

NOW: All-White Ensembles

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Forget the "Memorial Day to Labor Day" rule — you can now wear white pants, a white top and white outerwear whenever you want. Just do yourself a favor and keep any messy foods far, far away.

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Sam Escobar
Contributor

Sam's enthusiasm for makeup is only rivaled by their love of all things relating to cats. In their spare time, they enjoy watching scary movies, putting avocado on everything, and seeing how many shades of the rainbow they can dye their hair before 30.

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