The '80s Dress Trend Is More Wearable Than You Think

Publish date: 2024-06-10

Poofy-sleeved, ruffled, Dynasty-inspired '80s dresses are seeing a revival. Okay, we know it might sound questionable, but hear us out. Luxury fashion houses like Saint Laurent, Miu Miu, and Alexandre Vauthier have convinced us that this throwback trend is back — and slightly better than before. This time around, options are more understated while still keeping with the '80s aesthetic. Plus, there are also a million ways to style them so you're bound to find something to fit whatever mood or occasion you're going for (and it doesn't just have to be an '80s-themed party either).

Ahead, we've rounded up our favorite '80s dress ideas with tips to make them feel modern.

1. Add Some Tights

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Saint Laurent proved that this is the perfect combination, especially for formal events and the holiday season.

2. Keep It Sweet

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"Pilgrim" '80s dresses were paired with sock and sandals on the Miu Miu runway.

3. Slip-On Statement Shoes

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Dare to go the Alexandre Vauthier Haute Couture route by finding over-the-top footwear to match those voluminous shoulders.

4. ...Or Just a Pair of Sneakers

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Kate Bosworth made the trend casual by styling her puff-sleeves with classic Reeboks.

5. Accentuate Your Waist

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If your '80s dress isn't as form-fitting as you'd like, cinch it with a belt.

6. Grab Your Boots

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Black slouchy boots make a ruffled, metallic dress seem very rock 'n' roll.

7. Think Outside the Box

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Pull your mini dress over a pair of wide-leg pants for a fun, unexpected look.

8. Go With All-Black Everything

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While the '80s were big for bright colors, something darker — such as a ruffled LBD — is the perfect option for a night out. Wear it with black heels and a black bag like Nia Sioux.

9. Dress It Down

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You can definitely rock a ruched and pleated gown during the day. Just keep your accessories to a minimum and add white booties.

10. Color Coordinate

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Do as Nicky Hilton did and highlight a color in your dress with shoes of the same shade.

11. Don't Go Overboard With Accessories

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When your dress makes such a statement, classic hoops, like Rumer Willis's gold pair, will balance things out.

12. Make It Date Night-Ready

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Gabrielle Union wore this short and sexy style to the ESPYs, but it could easily work for a night out, too. She let the dress steal the spotlight by going with classic, metallic-heeled sandals.

13. Have Fun With Layering

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Wearing your ruffled dress over a turtleneck and jeans gives it a more daytime feel.

14. Pull On Knee-Highs

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We love this schoolgirl meets '80s-prom queen vibe.

15. Get Inspired By a Disney Princess

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As in, add metallic shoes and a bedazzled, tiara-like clip, just like Beanie Feldstein.

16. Stick With Classics

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Don't stress. Your go-to black ankle boots will work with this outfit, too.

17. Keep the Rest Understated

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When in doubt, try neutral heels or ones that are close to your skin tone to help elongate your legs.

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