The vibrant and eclectic style of 80s streetwear, known for its bold colors and daring patterns, is experiencing a dynamic revival in today's streetwear world. It’s the perfect time to revisit the decade that shaped our contemporary fashion landscape, as we dive into the brands that encapsulated that unique spirit and continue to inform styles today.
Levi's with its iconic denim and relaxed vibes, Tommy Hilfiger’s preppy yet daring flair, and the sporty edge of Champion all evoke the essence of 80s street style while remaining relevant in today's wardrobe. Check out the full list of brands below that echo this nostalgic aesthetic and explore how they blend the past with the modern.
If you'd like to learn more about 80's Streetwear, check out our comprehensive FAQ here.
Levi's is a classic American brand known for its iconic denim jeans, as well as other casual and workwear clothing.
Tommy Hilfiger is synonymous with classic American style, offering preppy and casual clothing for men, women, and kids. Known for its iconic logo, its designs often feature nautical and patriotic themes, blending traditional and modern styles.
Gucci is known for its high-end fashion and luxury accessories, featuring iconic symbols like the GG logo and the red and green stripe.
This Italian brand has been around since the 50s but stands out as distinct for the old competitors, especially for North Americans. Expect a wide range of on-court options for me and woman, it all the colours of the rainbow.
Adidas is German sportswear company founded in 1949, that offers a wide range of products including footwear, clothing, and accessories. Known for its iconic "stripes" logo, and for its collaboration with designers and fashion icons. You already know.
Dr. Martens (also known as Doc Martens or Docs for short) is an infamous British brand known for its iconic boots with their signature yellow stitching. Paired with that unique style, you can expect a boot fit for durability and comfort.
New Balance is an American athletic shoe brand known for its comfortable and high-performance footwear, particularly in the running and walking categories.
Nike is one of the world's most well-known and recognizable sportswear brands, offering a wide range of products including footwear, clothing, and accessories. You already know.
Puma is a German athletic brand known for its stylish and high-performance sportswear and footwear, with a focus on soccer and running.
Reebok is an American athletic brand known for its innovative and comfortable sportswear and footwear, with a focus on fitness and cross-training.
80's streetwear is characterized by a fusion of sportswear, casual clothing, and bold graphics. Key elements include oversized fits, brightly colored and patterned clothing, leather jackets, high-top sneakers, and the use of logos from popular brands like Nike, Adidas, and various surf and skate labels. The style often incorporates denim jeans, acid-wash materials, and youthful accessories, reflecting the pop culture and music trends of the era.
The 80's streetwear scene was heavily influenced by various cultural elements, including hip-hop, skate culture, and punk. Artists like Run-D.M.C. and Public Enemy popularized athletic wear, while skateboarders and surfers introduced laid-back styles and brands like Vans and Stussy. Fashion designers like Jean-Paul Gautier and Vivienne Westwood also played a role by blending street style with high fashion, pushing boundaries on what urban youth wore.
Music played a crucial role in shaping 80's streetwear fashion. Hip-hop artists frequently showcased their unique styles in music videos and performances, encouraging fans to emulate their looks. The punk and new wave music scenes also contributed by promoting DIY fashion and individuality. Moreover, artists like Madonna and Prince influenced mainstream fashion with their avant-garde styles, blending street vibes with a pop aesthetic.
Brands were central to the identity of 80's streetwear. Companies like Adidas, Nike, and Puma became cultural icons, particularly through endorsements from celebrities and athletes. Skate brands such as Vans and Thrasher were integral to the skate culture that emerged in the era. Streetwear brands like Stussy and A Bathing Ape (BAPE), which originated later, were inspired by the vibrant 80's aesthetic and the collaborative spirit that these earlier brands established.
Absolutely! The aesthetics of 80's streetwear have made a significant resurgence in contemporary culture. Many current streetwear brands draw inspiration from 80's styles, merging vintage pieces with modern cuts and sensibilities. Nostalgia for the 80's has led luxury brands to collaborate with street labels, and thrift culture has made retro styles more accessible than ever. The bold colors, oversized silhouettes, and graphic tees of the 80's continue to influence the fashion choices of both streetwear enthusiasts and mainstream consumers today.
