Skip to content
  • Essence GU
  • Beautycon
  • NaturallyCurly
  • Afropunk
  • Essence Studios
  • Soko Mrkt
  • Ese Funds
  • Refinery29
  • WeLoveUs.shop
  • 2026 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture
  • Celebrity
  • Fashion
  • Beauty
  • Lifestyle
  • Entrepreneurship
  • News
  • Shopping
  • Video
  • Events
  • Subscribe
Home • News

Flashback Friday: 80's Style

Flashback Friday: 80's Style
By Essence · Updated October 29, 2020
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready…
01
Knee Deep

We love the over-the-knee boots trend because it reminds us of Janet Jackson’s iconic look back in the day.

Flashback Friday: 80's Style
Getty Image
02
Trend Head

The original trendsetters, Salt-N-Pepa rocked the shaved head look way before Rihanna and Kelis brought it back this year.

Flashback Friday: 80's Style
Getty Image
03
Padded Glory

This season’s 80’s obsession takes a page from TV shows like ‘Dallas’ and ‘Dynasty’. Supermodel Iman wore the shoulder pad trend back in the day, with great results.

Flashback Friday: 80's Style
Getty Image
04
The Cling Factor

Whitney flaunted her body-con (short for body conscious) bod for the video “I Wanna Dance With Somebody.” The oh-so-clingy body-con dress made a huge splash on runways and celebs this season.

Flashback Friday: 80's Style
Getty Image
05
Heavy Metal

This season sequins goes high and low-end – from Forever 21 to Gucci. Here Naomi Campbell shimmers up for a totally modern look.

Flashback Friday: 80's Style
Getty Image
06
Black Girls Rock

Tina Turner’s cheeky motorcycle jacket look is back and tougher than leather.

Flashback Friday: 80's Style
Corbis
07
Comfy Chic

No one made sweats look sexier than Flashdance star Jennifer Beals. This season designers like Alexander Wang and Donna Karan are turning the gym staple into everyday wear.

Flashback Friday: 80's Style
08
Romper Room

Diana Ross keeps it glam with a one-piece jumper. They’re fun and flirty and easy to slip on. Just ask Rihanna and Beyonce.

Flashback Friday: 80's Style
Getty Image