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The 1980s were the decade of the “Me” generation, defined by conspicuous consumption and an increased interest in designer labels. Expensive, ostentatious designer fashions reflected the image of a money-obsessed society. Logos became widely popular and were focal points of denim, handbags, and jewelry. The wedding of Prince Charles and Diana Spencer was considered the fashion event of the decade and “Lady Di” became a major style icon with her elegant hats, tailored suits, and evening dresses.
Yuppies (Young Urban Professionals) embraced elegant business attire and women began “power-dressing” for the workplace in skirt-suit combinations, featuring large shoulder pads. Bright, bold, and neon colors were widely used and stretch fibers and synthetic blends enjoyed a heightened popularity, fueled by the “fitness craze,” which brought exercise wear such as leg warmers, tights, and leotards to the streets.
The eighties also saw the rise of postmodernism—not only in fashion, but in art and architecture styles. Fantasy and escapism were inspiration for avant-garde designer collections and Japanese designers became known in Western capitals for their innovative styles that experimented with volume and proportion.
Accessories were many, but big hair, funky hats, bright colored high heels, and flashy costume jewelry worn together were common. The underwear-as-outerwear trend was ushered in by singer Madonna and designer Jean-Paul Gaultier and Calvin Klein turned underwear into a fashionable item. Television and music of the period, led by MTV, had major influences in teenage fashion.
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