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Power Dressing
Popularised by the brand Giorgio Armani, power dressing was established in the mid 1970's. However, it wasn't until 1980 that power suits became an iconic silhouette. As more women were beginning to work in executive roles, power dressing enabled women to establish their authority and success by wearing an exaggerated masculine silhouette. This allowed women to be in professional and political environments that were traditionally dominated by males. -
Princess Diana's Wedding
Princess Diana's wedding was a highly influential event that changed the trajectory of fashion in the 1980's. Her wedding itself set the tone for popular wedding dresses for women, providing inspiration throughout the rest of the decade. It popularised the puff sleeve obsession, with women throughout the 1980s often adopting aspects of her changing style and hair. They often wore lace collars, blazers, pearl necklaces and hats, with these accessories becoming staples in women's fashion. -
Olivia Newton-John releases 'Lets Get Physical'
After the release of the song ‘let's get physical’, and other aerobic videos an awareness for a fit body was founded. Working out and being fit suggested success, power and strength. This song amongst others was one of the leading factors for active wear such as sweat bands, leg warmers, bike shorts and leotards to be in mainstream fashion worn in everyday life. -
Michael Jackson releases album 'Thriller'
After Michael Jackson's hit album 'Thriller' was released, countless teenagers wanted to emulate his style and replicate his looks. These consisted of his matching red/black leather pants and jackets, his iconic sparkly glove, sunglasses, and the Jheri curl being used to style hair. Through his music videos, Michael Jackson consistently set iconic trends that impacted fashion in the 80s to a wide extent, as people surged to embrace aspects of his style. -
'Flashdance' movie is released
The movie 'Flashdance,' which featured iconic workout gear, had a widespread impact on women's athletic wear. The movie inspired women to wear tight leggings paired with oversized, baggy sweatshirts with the one shoulder necklines. Jogging or track suits became increasingly popular as casual day wear. Streetwear was also impacted, with the movie popularising trends such as ripped oversized sweatshirts, that often left one shoulder bare. -
Madonna Debuts on MTV
Madonna was known for her 'bad girl punk' outfits, stepping out of the norm through her daring fashion choices. Her fashion choices catalysed trends that every teenage girl wanted to adopt into their own style, asserting Madonna as a fashion icon. In 1984, she debuted on MTV wearing outfits that were shocking to the general public, with the outcry furthering her reach and making her more likely to influence teenage girls. -
Designers breaking off into different styles
1985 was the breaking point for fashion evolution. It was this year that fashion was splintering off into different categories, allowing designers to be successful in their own way. This is because it was no longer the social norm to dress the same as many trends were either short lived or stayed for several years. Brands like Ralph Lauren set the tone for sportswear, adjusting their styles to achieve a more modern, popular look. Donna Karan perfected the casual but sophisticated look for women. -
Introduction of floor length wool coats
Long fur coats were a must have in Australian wardrobes specifically when going out during the colder seasons. There was a need for a fresh, bold and stylish look that could go with anything. Big coats were the answer, often being paired with pants, knee length skirts, blouses etc. Many women were transitioning into better paying professions enabling them to buy high-end furs such as Mink. -
Resurge of short skirts
Short skirts were popularised amongst teenagers in early 1980's were 'layered ra-ra skirts', best worn by pop icon Madonna. However it wasn't until 1987 that credible designers showed favour to short hemlines. It was clear, that short hemlines were the new "it" trend and were more than just a resurged style. A 1987 vanity fair article presented the idea that it was power women / smart women who wore short skirts, stating - "What better way to show you're a bluestocking?". -
Popularity of Nike
Nike had grown into one of the most profitable clothing brands in the world. Just like the iconic Coke vs Pepsi battle, there was a huge athletic competition between Nike vs Reebok. However with the help of Michael Jordan’s collaboration with Nike in 1985, the new shoe Air Jordans, allowed Nike to win the battle. During this year, this shoe became the new 'must have wardrobe item' as every teenager wanted a pair of Air Jordans. The demand for Nike has since continued and increased immensely.