Jan 27, 2025

How 80s Music Videos Changed Fashion Trends

When MTV launched in 1981, no one could have predicted just how much the music video would influence pop culture—not just in sound but in style. The 80s weren’t just a decade of big hair and even bigger synths; they were a cultural reset, especially when it came to fashion. Music videos became a visual playground where artists could experiment with bold looks and audacious styles that had everyone reaching for their closets (or their sewing machines).

But why did 80s music videos have such a massive impact on fashion trends? Because they were larger than life. They were unapologetically bold, colorful, and, most importantly, memorable. Let’s dive into the early days of the music video revolution and uncover how some iconic looks became mainstream—and yes, even how those styles are alive and kicking today.

The Birth of the Music Video Star

Before the music video, artists were judged mainly by their voices and occasionally by their album covers. But with MTV, suddenly how you looked while singing mattered just as much as how you sounded. Think about it: would Madonna's "Like a Virgin" have hit the same if it weren’t for that tulle wedding dress and "boy toy" belt?

Music videos became mini-movies, and their stars weren’t just singers—they were style icons. Michael Jackson’s red leather jacket from "Thriller" wasn’t just a jacket; it became a cultural moment. The same goes for Prince’s ruffled shirts and purple blazers. These weren’t just clothes—they were statements that said, “This is who I am, and you can’t ignore me.”

And let's not forget the power of accessories. Sunglasses in music videos were practically a co-star. How could we talk about Corey Hart's "Sunglasses at Night" without, well, sunglasses? Stars turned basic wardrobe items into must-have fashion pieces. This trend is what makes retro fashion so timeless—you see these looks in modern outfits every day. (By the way, if you're after vintage-inspired sunglasses that nail that 80s vibe, Newretro.Net might just have what you're looking for.)

Big Hair, Bigger Statements

It’s impossible to talk about 80s fashion without addressing the hairstyles. Hair was a symbol of rebellion, creativity, and sometimes, just how much hairspray you could use without starting a fire. And it wasn’t just for women; male artists like Jon Bon Jovi and David Bowie were rocking teased hair that could rival any skyscraper.

Take Cyndi Lauper, for instance. Her "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" video wasn’t just about a catchy tune. Her mismatched layers of colorful clothing and fiery, crimped hair screamed individuality. And that was the magic of the 80s—the message was clear: Be yourself, but make it loud enough so everyone hears you.

Fun fact: The rise of crimped hair can almost single-handedly be traced back to those wild, technicolor videos. Today, the crimping iron might be sitting in your mom’s attic, but the spirit of those wild styles lives on in every bold hairstyle you see on TikTok.

Fashion Trends Born From Music Videos

Some of the most recognizable fashion trends of the 80s came straight out of music videos. Let’s break down a few:

Denim on Denim: Madonna rocked acid-wash jeans and jackets in her "Papa Don’t Preach" video, turning double denim into a trend that we still see today. (Check out Newretro.Net if you’re looking for retro denim jackets with that modern twist.)
Leather Jackets: Michael Jackson’s red leather jacket in "Beat It" became a wardrobe staple for anyone who wanted to look effortlessly cool. It screamed “rebel,” but without the commitment of actually joining a motorcycle gang.
Neon Everything: Music videos made neon unavoidable. From Duran Duran to Wham!, bright colors were everywhere, and they weren’t just for workout gear. Bright pink leg warmers, anyone?
Sunglasses: Whether it was aviators or oversized frames, sunglasses were a crucial accessory. They weren’t just about shielding your eyes—they were about shielding your mystique.

These trends didn’t just stay in the 80s—they’ve cycled back with a vengeance. Today, influencers and brands are taking these classic styles and giving them a modern twist. (Hint: Newretro.Net is a treasure trove for those who want to channel their inner music video star.)

The Influence of Iconic Artists

Music videos didn’t just create fashion trends; they cemented the legacy of the artists behind them. Take David Bowie’s "Ashes to Ashes," for example. His surreal, futuristic clown outfit challenged traditional masculinity and made audiences rethink what fashion could be. Bowie didn’t just follow trends; he created them.

Madonna, on the other hand, used music videos to define an era. The "Material Girl" video, inspired by Marilyn Monroe’s iconic look in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, was both a nod to the past and a blueprint for the future. It was playful, sexy, and completely unforgettable.

And then there was Prince. His music videos were a masterclass in how to blend sexuality and style. Who else could make a crop top and eyeliner look that cool? Prince’s style wasn’t just bold; it was fearless.

These artists didn’t just make music—they created movements. And even now, their influence is everywhere, from fashion runways to streetwear collections.

How 80s Fashion Is Still Relevant Today

You might be thinking, “Okay, but no one’s walking around in neon leggings and fingerless gloves anymore.” And sure, maybe we’re not wearing all the trends at once (thankfully), but the DNA of 80s fashion is still in everything we wear today.

Take the oversized blazer trend. That’s straight out of Annie Lennox’s wardrobe from Eurythmics’ "Sweet Dreams" video. High-waisted jeans? A nod to 80s mom jeans, but updated for modern times. And those chunky sneakers you’re rocking? Let’s just say they’d look right at home in a Run-DMC video.

The 80s taught us to have fun with fashion, to experiment, and to embrace boldness. It’s why retro styles have never really gone away—they just keep evolving.

DIY Fashion: The 80s Way to Stand Out

If there’s one thing 80s music videos taught us, it’s that individuality was everything. And for a lot of fans, that meant skipping the mall and getting crafty. Music videos often showcased outlandish, custom-made outfits that weren’t exactly available at your local department store. So, people took matters into their own hands—literally.

Ripped jeans, for example, became a fashion phenomenon, thanks to artists like Bon Jovi and Billy Idol. But do you think people went out and bought them pre-ripped? Nope. They grabbed scissors, went to town on their denim, and suddenly looked like they’d just stepped off a stage. Fun fact: distressed denim has come full circle, and if you want a pair without the scissors involved, Newretro.Net has you covered.

Band tees were another DIY goldmine. Sure, you could buy a plain T-shirt, but in true 80s style, why not crop it, tie-dye it, or add some glitter for good measure? The ethos of 80s fashion was clear: if you can’t find what you’re looking for, make it.

And then there were the accessories. Remember all those chunky bangles, chain necklaces, and oversized earrings? Those weren’t just items people found lying around; they were often cobbled together from whatever was handy. Safety pins as earrings? Sure. A belt turned into a necklace? Why not.

The DIY movement wasn’t just a way to copy your favorite stars—it was a rebellion against mass production and a way to inject your own personality into your style. In today’s world of fast fashion, it’s a reminder that sometimes the coolest looks are the ones you create yourself.

Music Videos and Gender-Bending Fashion

The 80s weren’t just a time for breaking fashion rules; they were also a time for breaking boundaries. Music videos allowed artists to challenge societal norms, especially when it came to gender and clothing. Artists like Boy George and Annie Lennox blurred the lines between masculine and feminine, paving the way for more inclusive fashion statements.

Boy George’s colorful, androgynous outfits in Culture Club videos were a revelation. He wasn’t just dressing for attention—he was redefining what was “acceptable” in mainstream media. Similarly, Annie Lennox’s tailored suits in the "Sweet Dreams" video became a symbol of power and sophistication for women.

These artists didn’t just influence the fashion of their time—they planted the seeds for conversations about self-expression that are still growing today. In a way, the 80s were the starting point for the gender-neutral styles we’re seeing on runways and in stores today.

Want to channel those vibes in a subtle way? Try a bold blazer, timeless sunglasses, or a sleek leather jacket. Retro-inspired pieces like those available at Newretro.Net are perfect for making a statement without saying a word.

Fashion as a Reflection of the Music

Let’s not forget that the styles in music videos were often a reflection of the songs themselves. When you watched a video, the fashion amplified the mood of the music.

Take Bruce Springsteen’s "Born in the U.S.A." video. His simple white T-shirt, blue jeans, and red baseball cap weren’t flashy, but they perfectly matched the working-class grit of the song. On the other end of the spectrum, you had Duran Duran’s "Rio," which was drenched in luxury—white linen suits, bold colors, and tropical vibes that screamed, “We’re living our best lives.”

The connection between music and fashion wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about storytelling. Artists used their outfits to draw you into their world. Michael Jackson’s "Smooth Criminal" wasn’t just a music video—it was an entire aesthetic wrapped in pinstripe suits and fedoras.

Why Retro Fashion Still Reigns

The 80s left an indelible mark on fashion, and it’s not hard to see why. The boldness, creativity, and sense of fun from that era are still influencing what we wear today. High-waisted jeans, oversized jackets, bold colors, and statement sunglasses are all 80s-inspired staples that are just as relevant now as they were then.

But it’s not just about nostalgia. Retro fashion is about taking the best of the past and blending it with modern sensibilities. It’s about standing out in a world where trends come and go faster than you can hit “add to cart.”

That’s where brands like Newretro.Net come in. By reimagining classic styles with a contemporary twist, they’re giving today’s fashion lovers a chance to embrace the past without looking like they’re headed to an 80s costume party. Whether it’s a denim jacket, a pair of bold sunglasses, or a leather piece that screams "rebel," retro fashion is more alive than ever.

The Legacy of 80s Music Videos

The 80s were a time of firsts. The first generation of music video stars. The first time fashion was as much a part of music as the melodies themselves. And the first time fans could see and replicate their favorite artists’ styles in real-time.

It’s no wonder these trends have stood the test of time. They were born in an era of experimentation, individuality, and creativity—values that never go out of style.

So, the next time you’re scrolling through your favorite retro fashion site (hello, Newretro.Net) or throwing on a pair of acid-wash jeans, remember this: You’re not just wearing clothes. You’re wearing a little piece of history, a nod to the era that changed everything.

And hey, maybe blast some 80s music while you’re at it. After all, what’s a great outfit without the perfect soundtrack?