There's no denying the power that the '80s are having over fashion right now. Larger-than-life costume jewelry is lining the shelves at every retailer, people are constantly reposting old photos of Princess Diana, and jewel tones are everywhere we look these days. Even Google just announced that '80s fashion was the top fashion search term of the year. Since party season is officially upon us, we took a deep dive into photo archives from the decade, and we're happy to report that we found a trove of cool '80s holiday party outfits to inspire your next look.
After seeing the following outfits from It girls like Anna Wintour, Iman, and Sarah Jessica Parker, you'll realize that so many of the It trends they were wearing to parties are eerily similar to today's (think bold-shouldered frocks and a healthy dose of sequins). If you're craving some throwback style inspiration, look no further. These cool party outfits will have you instantly craving a good reason to get all dolled up your best dresses, heels, and jewelry for the occasion.
WHO: Princess Diana
Style Notes: There are two important details that make Princess Diana's dress a winner: the velvet for obvious reasons, the ruching details, and the sweetheart neckline. Okay, so actually three details.
WHO: Anna Wintour
Style Notes: The '80s mindset was "more is more." In this case, the more sequins the better.
WHO: Iman and Cindy Crawford
Style Notes: Eighties girls took to throwing boxy jackets over their party dresses.
WHO: Demi Moore
Style Notes: If Moore's crystal-embellished jacket was on sale today, 10/10 fashion girls would be all over it.
WHO: Iman
Style Notes: Chunky gold jewelry adds a festive element to tailored black pieces.
WHO: Vanessa Williams
Style Notes: If you go the blazer route, make like Williams and choose one with puffy sleeves and a bold color.
WHO: Kate Moss
Style Notes: Animal print ruled the '80s, too, if this Kate Moss look is any indication.
WHO: Christie Brinkley
Style Notes: Brinkley's barely there sandals are a heel trend that's still very much a thing today.
WHO: Sarah Jessica Parker
Style Notes: Leave it to SJP to make an LBD look like a novel idea.
WHO: Janet Jackson
Style Notes: Now those are some '80s accessories we can definitely get behind.
Shop '80s-inspired party attire:
Next, see how It girls were wearing ankle boots in the '80s, '90s, and '00s.
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