These ’80s Fashion Trends Will Be Everywhere In 2022

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For a while now, millennials have been wearing chic-casual clothes from the 1990s. On the other hand, Gen Z-ers have been doing their best to revive Y2K (but on behalf of millennials everywhere, y’all can keep that one).

The fashion industry is going back a decade in 2022. Stylists expect shoulder pads, studs, sequins, and studs. That’s right, Gen X: it’s YourTime to shine. The ‘80s are back, baby, and these looks are rad as ever.

Sequins, Sequins & More Sequins

Anita Giancarli wearing a black sequins top with flowy black pants and black boots.
(Photo by Francois Duand/Getty Images for The Kooples).

1980s glamour was all about full-on glamour. And what better way to exude glamour than with an outfit that looks like it’s made of a thousand tiny jewels? 

Although sequins were once reserved for formal wear, 2022 will see them become a part of everyday wear. A sequin top can be worn with jeans and boots for a stylish ensemble. Or opt for a sparkly mini-skirt for the perfect date night (or girl’s night) look. 

Head stylist Joanna Angeles told InStyleShe recommended pairing a skirt with a skirt “bold-colored pointed toe pumps, a tucked-in, flowy white button-up, and chunky gold jewelry.”

Blazers that are too large (Yes, you can also get shoulder pads)

Roxy Horner in an oversized beige blazer with a white crop top and mini skirt.
(Photo by Joe Maher/Getty Images).

Blame it on my obsession. HeathersHowever, I am here to support the return of oversized jackets. Christina Jaide, co-founder of JLUX, agreed.

“They’re too good to move on from,” Jaide told InStyle. “If you are reaching for something oversized and you are sporting a smaller frame, adding a belt will ensure your shape is at the forefront of your look.”

You can also balance your look by keeping your bottom half simple. To keep your look modern, pair chunky jackets and dark-wash skinnies with a sexy mini-skirt made of leather.

Channel Your Inner Glam Rocker

Vanessa Dubasso in a lace corset, black leather pants, and black combat boots with Samuel Larsen with a black leather jacket, acid washed ripped jeans, and white platform boots.
(Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images).

Glamour rock existed before the 1990s. This trend, which is larger than life, began in the mid-1970s abroad. Full-on glam was the new fad in American music by the 1980s. There are many great examples: Twisted Sisters and Def Leppard, Cyndi Laper, Madonna, and Cyndi Lauper. 

In 2022, leather & lace will be making a comeback. When it comes to embodying the tough glam of the ‘80s, louder is better. Angeles recommends platform shoes, metallic staples and lots of glittery accents. 

“Forget less is more,” Angeles said. “With the ‘80s, more is definitely more.”

Keep it Simple with Timeless Classics

Isis King in a black bodysuit and black flowy joggers with heels.
(Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images).

BodysuitsThe use of leotards is not new. These basics have been used for decades by stylists to create balanced ensembles with sleek silhouettes. But thanks to the likes of Jane Fonda and Cher, we most often associate these pieces with the ‘80s. 

Your look will almost scream Madonna, if you add a French cut and a bold color. You don’t need to crimp your hair or use fingerless gloves unless you really want. 

These style staples can be worn with any outfit and eliminate tucking or bulging. Teresa Jaide is co-founder of JLUX. InStyle and suggested wearing bodysuits with “wide-leg trousers or even a flowy skirt. The tightness of the bodysuit will help balance out your look.” 

Whether you incorporate small nods to the ‘80s or go full-on Molly Ringwald, these trends are sure to keep your wardrobe totally tubular.