Rock the Decade: How to Dress Like an 80s Rock Star
The 1980s. A glorious, flamboyant, and unapologetically loud decade where rock music reigned supreme. From stadium anthems to gritty glam metal, the fashion of the era was just as iconic as the music itself. Want to channel your inner rock god or goddess? This comprehensive guide will break down how to dress like an 80s rocker, covering everything from the essential clothing items to the perfect accessories and hairstyles. So, crank up the volume, tease your hair, and let’s get ready to rock!
## Understanding the 80s Rock Aesthetic
Before diving into specific items, it’s crucial to understand the core elements that defined the 80s rock look. Think boldness, rebellion, and a healthy dose of theatrics. Here’s a breakdown:
* **Glam Rock/Hair Metal:** This subgenre was all about excess. Think big hair, bright colors, animal prints, spandex, and lots of makeup. Bands like Mötley Crüe, Poison, and Bon Jovi epitomized this style.
* **Hard Rock/Heavy Metal:** This style was a bit more toned down but still edgy. Leather jackets, ripped jeans, band t-shirts, and boots were staples. Think of bands like Guns N’ Roses, Metallica, and Iron Maiden.
* **Punk Rock:** While punk originated in the 70s, it continued to influence 80s rock. Distressed clothing, safety pins, studs, and bold graphics were key elements. Think of bands like The Ramones and The Sex Pistols (even though they were primarily 70s, their influence extended into the 80s).
* **New Wave/Alternative Rock:** This style was more experimental and often incorporated elements of punk and pop. Think of bands like The Cure, Blondie, and Depeche Mode.
Your specific style will depend on which subgenre you want to emulate. However, some elements are common across all 80s rock styles: confidence, attitude, and a willingness to stand out.
## Essential Clothing Items for an 80s Rocker Look
Now, let’s get down to the specifics. Here’s a list of must-have clothing items for creating an authentic 80s rock look:
### 1. Leather Jacket
No 80s rocker wardrobe is complete without a leather jacket. It’s the ultimate symbol of rebellion and coolness.
* **Styles:** Choose from classic motorcycle jackets (think Marlon Brando) or more fitted, bomber-style leather jackets. Distressed leather adds extra authenticity.
* **Colors:** Black is the most classic choice, but brown or even brightly colored leather jackets were also popular.
* **Embellishments:** Look for jackets with studs, zippers, or patches for added flair. You can even customize your own jacket with band patches or hand-painted designs.
* **Fit:** The fit is important. For a classic motorcycle jacket, a slightly looser fit is acceptable. For a bomber-style jacket, a more fitted silhouette is preferable.
### 2. Band T-Shirts
Show your allegiance to your favorite bands with a vintage-inspired band t-shirt.
* **Authenticity:** Seek out original vintage t-shirts for the most authentic look. You can find these at vintage stores or online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy.
* **New vs. Vintage:** If you can’t find a vintage shirt, many companies now sell reproduction band t-shirts that are designed to look like the originals. These are a great alternative.
* **Distressing:** Don’t be afraid to wear a t-shirt with some wear and tear. A slightly faded or ripped t-shirt adds to the rock and roll vibe.
* **Sizing:** A slightly oversized or loose fit is generally more appropriate for a rock and roll look.
### 3. Ripped Jeans
Ripped jeans are another essential element of the 80s rock look.
* **Styles:** Choose from skinny jeans, straight-leg jeans, or even slightly baggy jeans. The key is to make sure they’re ripped or distressed.
* **Placement:** The rips can be strategically placed (e.g., at the knees) or more randomly distributed. The more rips, the better (within reason!).
* **DIY:** You can easily create your own ripped jeans by using scissors or a razor blade to cut holes in your jeans. For a more distressed look, you can use sandpaper to roughen up the fabric.
* **Washes:** Dark washes and acid washes were both popular in the 80s.
### 4. Spandex Pants/Leggings
For a more glam rock or hair metal look, spandex pants or leggings are a must.
* **Colors:** Bright colors like neon pink, electric blue, and lime green were all popular. Black spandex is also a classic choice.
* **Patterns:** Animal prints like leopard print and zebra print were extremely popular. Geometric patterns and stripes were also common.
* **Layering:** Spandex pants or leggings can be layered under ripped jeans or paired with a short skirt or dress.
* **Shine:** Look for spandex with a shiny or metallic finish for an extra dose of glam.
### 5. Mini Skirts
Mini skirts were a staple of 80s rock fashion, especially in the glam metal scene.
* **Materials:** Leather, denim, and spandex were all popular choices.
* **Colors and Patterns:** Similar to spandex pants, mini skirts came in a wide range of colors and patterns, including bright neons and animal prints.
* **Styling:** Pair a mini skirt with a band t-shirt, ripped stockings, and boots or heels.
* **Layering:** Layering a mini skirt over leggings or tights can add extra dimension to your outfit.
### 6. Lace and Fishnet
Lace and fishnet were used in a variety of ways in 80s rock fashion, from tops and dresses to gloves and stockings.
* **Tops:** Lace tops can be paired with leather jackets or worn alone for a more feminine touch. Fishnet tops can be layered under t-shirts or dresses for a more edgy look.
* **Stockings/Tights:** Ripped fishnet stockings or tights were a classic accessory. Pair them with ripped jeans or a mini skirt.
* **Gloves:** Lace or fishnet gloves can add a touch of glam to any outfit.
* **Color:** Black is the most common color, but other colors like red and white were also used.
### 7. Button-Down Shirts
Button-down shirts, often worn open or tied at the waist, were a versatile piece in the 80s rocker wardrobe.
* **Plaid:** Plaid flannel shirts were particularly popular, especially in the grunge-influenced side of rock.
* **Denim:** Denim shirts could be worn as jackets or buttoned up.
* **Leather:** Leather button-down shirts offered a bolder, more rebellious look.
* **Styling:** Wear them oversized, tied at the waist, or tucked into high-waisted pants or skirts.
### 8. Dresses
Dresses weren’t always the first thing that came to mind with 80s rock, but they certainly had their place.
* **Leather Dresses:** A fitted leather dress with studs or zippers was the epitome of rock and roll chic.
* **Lace Dresses:** Lace dresses, often in black or red, offered a more romantic but still edgy vibe.
* **Bodycon Dresses:** Tight, body-hugging dresses in bold colors or patterns were also popular.
* **Styling:** Pair a dress with boots, heels, or even sneakers for a more casual look. Add a leather jacket and some statement jewelry to complete the look.
## Accessories: The Key to Completing Your 80s Rocker Look
Accessories are crucial for taking your 80s rock outfit to the next level. Here are some essential accessories:
### 1. Boots
Boots were a staple of 80s rock fashion.
* **Combat Boots:** Classic combat boots like Doc Martens were a popular choice for a more grunge or punk-inspired look.
* **Ankle Boots:** Ankle boots with buckles, straps, or studs were also common.
* **Cowboy Boots:** For a more glam rock or country-influenced look, cowboy boots were a stylish choice.
* **Over-the-Knee Boots:** Over-the-knee boots, especially in leather or suede, added a touch of sex appeal.
* **Heels:** While boots were more common, heels, especially stilettos or chunky heels, were sometimes worn, particularly in the glam metal scene.
### 2. Sneakers
Sneakers offered a more casual but still stylish option.
* **High-Tops:** High-top sneakers like Converse Chuck Taylors or Nike Air Jordans were a classic choice.
* **Slip-Ons:** Slip-on sneakers like Vans were also popular.
* **Colors and Patterns:** Bright colors, bold patterns, and even neon accents were common.
* **Styling:** Wear sneakers with ripped jeans, leggings, or even a mini skirt for a more unexpected look.
### 3. Jewelry
Jewelry was used to add extra flair and personality to 80s rock outfits.
* **Chains:** Chunky chains, often layered, were a must-have accessory.
* **Studded Belts:** Belts with studs, spikes, or other metal embellishments added an edgy touch.
* **Leather Cuffs:** Wide leather cuffs with studs or buckles were another popular accessory.
* **Rings:** Large rings, often with skulls or other gothic motifs, were common.
* **Earrings:** Hoop earrings, dangling earrings, and stud earrings were all popular choices. Cross earrings were also a common motif.
### 4. Headbands and Bandanas
Headbands and bandanas were used to tame big hair and add a touch of style.
* **Headbands:** Wide headbands, often in bright colors or patterns, were a popular choice.
* **Bandanas:** Bandanas could be worn around the head, neck, or wrist.
* **Materials:** Headbands and bandanas came in a variety of materials, including cotton, velvet, and leather.
* **Styling:** Coordinate your headband or bandana with your outfit for a cohesive look.
### 5. Sunglasses
Sunglasses were a must-have accessory for any 80s rocker, whether they were worn indoors or out.
* **Aviator Sunglasses:** Aviator sunglasses were a classic choice, popularized by many rock stars.
* **Wayfarer Sunglasses:** Wayfarer sunglasses were another popular style.
* **Mirrored Sunglasses:** Mirrored sunglasses added a touch of glam and mystery.
* **Bright Colors:** Sunglasses with brightly colored frames were also common.
### 6. Gloves
Fingerless gloves, lace gloves, or leather gloves could add an unexpected edge.
* **Fingerless Gloves:** These allowed you to play guitar while still looking fashionable.
* **Lace Gloves:** Added a touch of glam, especially when layered over fishnet.
* **Leather Gloves:** Offered a tough and rebellious look.
## Hairstyles: Tease It to the Max
No 80s rock look is complete without the right hairstyle. Big, teased hair was the signature look of the decade.
* **Teasing:** Use a comb to tease your hair at the roots to create volume. Hairspray is essential for holding the style in place.
* **Crimping:** Crimping your hair can add extra texture and volume.
* **Mullets:** The mullet, business in the front, party in the back, was a controversial but iconic 80s hairstyle.
* **Long Hair:** Long hair, often teased and styled with hairspray, was common among male rock stars.
* **Hair Color:** Bold hair colors, such as bright red, platinum blonde, and jet black, were popular. Highlights and lowlights can add dimension to your hair.
## Makeup: Go Bold or Go Home
Makeup was another important element of the 80s rock look, especially in the glam metal scene.
* **Eyeshadow:** Brightly colored eyeshadow, such as blue, purple, green, and pink, was a must. Layering multiple colors was also common.
* **Eyeliner:** Black eyeliner was used to create a dramatic, winged look. Both pencil and liquid eyeliner were used.
* **Mascara:** Apply several coats of mascara to your upper and lower lashes for a full, voluminous look.
* **Blush:** Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks for a healthy glow.
* **Lipstick:** Bright red lipstick was a classic choice. Other popular colors included pink, purple, and orange.
* **Contouring:** Contouring was used to define the cheekbones and jawline.
## Putting It All Together: Creating Your 80s Rocker Outfit
Now that you know the essential elements, here are some tips for putting together a complete 80s rocker outfit:
* **Choose Your Subgenre:** Decide which subgenre of 80s rock you want to emulate. This will help you narrow down your choices and create a more cohesive look.
* **Start with the Basics:** Begin with the essential clothing items, such as a leather jacket, band t-shirt, and ripped jeans.
* **Add Accessories:** Accessorize your outfit with boots, jewelry, sunglasses, and headbands.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** The 80s were all about experimentation, so don’t be afraid to try new things and push the boundaries.
* **Be Confident:** The most important element of any 80s rock look is confidence. Wear your outfit with pride and don’t be afraid to stand out.
* **Mix and Match:** Combine different styles to create a unique look. A leather jacket with a lace top, ripped jeans with heels, and band t-shirt with a mini skirt are all great combinations.
* **Consider the Details:** Pay attention to the details, such as the fit of your clothes, the texture of the fabrics, and the colors you choose. These small details can make a big difference in the overall look.
## Where to Find 80s Rocker Clothing and Accessories
* **Vintage Stores:** Vintage stores are a great place to find authentic 80s clothing and accessories.
* **Thrift Stores:** Thrift stores can be a treasure trove of hidden gems. You may have to do some digging, but you can often find unique and affordable pieces.
* **Online Marketplaces:** Online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy are great for finding vintage clothing and accessories.
* **Retail Stores:** Many retail stores now carry clothing and accessories that are inspired by 80s fashion.
* **DIY:** Don’t be afraid to create your own 80s rocker clothing and accessories. You can rip your own jeans, customize a leather jacket with patches, or make your own jewelry.
## Beyond the Clothes: The Attitude
While the clothes, hair, and makeup are crucial, remember that the 80s rocker look is as much about attitude as it is about appearance. Embrace the rebellious, confident, and unapologetic spirit of the decade. Walk with a swagger, speak your mind, and don’t be afraid to be yourself. After all, rock and roll is all about individuality and self-expression.
## Conclusion: Rock On!
Dressing like an 80s rocker is all about embracing boldness, rebellion, and a healthy dose of theatrics. By following these tips and advice, you can create an authentic 80s rock look that is sure to turn heads. So, go out there and rock on!