It is easy to see in the shape, cut and style of these examples of 80s dresses just what makes 80s fashion unique. The draping, the shoulder pads, the extra layer of ruffles, the bright patterns (polka dots and loud florals) all typify the look that is so uniquely associated with the 1980s. The extravagance that marks the decade of greed is well interpreted in its dresses. From power dressing and casual wear for day to cocktail and prom dresses for night, these 80s dresses have it all. They are big, bold and bodacious.

Distinct features of 80s dresses:

• Ruffles (often inverted – see example in sea
foam delight)
• Polka Dots
• Shoulder Pads
• Drape-y fabric
• Rouching at shoulders
• Big buttons, bows or other accessories
• Bright colors
• Floral (see Laura Ashley section below)

A picture is worth more than anything we could do with words so we have scoured the web for great examples of 80s dresses. We hope you enjoy this gallery of 80s dresses as much as we enjoyed finding them.

Laura Ashley Phenomenon

Of special note is the Laura Ashley floral-print sack dress that added 35 pounds to anyone who wore them. And for that privilege, people paid well over $120.00 (that’s in 1980s dollars) – yikes! A veritable fortune for 3 yards of floral cotton with some gathering around the waist. These dresses were very preppy and were often paired with a pair Keds and white socks – now that’s a good look. We found several examples of these dresses (selling now on ebay for a mere $10.00). We do not have a vintage photo from the 80s of one a Laura Ashley dress in action but would love one (hint, hint – email it to us if you have one).

Other Online Resources for 80s Fashion

There are a lot of great sites out there selling vintage 80s dresses that can be a great resource when researching 80s fashions. Try this one: http://www.sydneysvintageclothing.com. Another great place to check is ebay by searching for “80s vintage.” If you are an 80s fashionista or just need a great, authentic ensem for an upcoming 80s party, nothing beats the real thing.

For some, the 80’s were a great time. The creation of MTV revolutionized fashion, the music industry and even how we watched TV. For others, it was nothing but bad hair, worse clothing and music that often had more to do with machines than talent. We take the former approach and relish the excess and outrageous fashions that the 80s managed to make mainstream. We didn't accessorize - we "excessorized" and LOVED it.

The clothes worn in the 80s depicted people who were trying to find themselves. They looked for ways to express their creativity and individuality. Men wore heavy make up and grew long hair. Women wore short hair and layers of clothing. Both sexes were looking for an identity. 1980s clothing styles are back on the shelves now, and we take a look at what makes these eighties fashions for women endure the test of time.

Get all the good scoop on 80s fashions for hair, makeup, and clothes in the eighties. You'll be ready to bust a major 80s fashion move.