This Sold-Out Costco Collab Proves The '80s Are Back: 3 Other Ways To Hop On The Nostalgic Trend
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If you've ever questioned an older relative about fashion from their era, you may have asked why they didn't keep the items that later came back in style. As in, "You had bell bottoms in the '70s? How could you get rid of them!" The same could be asked of Gen X-ers right now with their logo sweatshirts. When Costco collaborated with Esprit in 2026 to bring back its iconic cream sweatshirt with block lettering across the chest, children of the '80s excitedly said, "I had one of those!" (Or four.)
Whether you had one back in the day that has long since disappeared, or you simply want to embrace the nostalgic trend for the first time, Costco heeded the call with a rainbow of options available to buy for $18.99 at the bulk megastore. At the time of writing, however, the popular piece was sold out online, proving yet again that '80s maximalism is trending. The Esprit sweatshirt isn't the only way to bring '80s trends into our 2026 outfits, though; there are other sporty options that nail the '80s brief without looking too costume-y, from other branded sweatshirts to retro band tees.
Bring on the logo sweatshirts (even if they're not Esprit) to embrace the '80s
Don't fret if you didn't get your hands on an Esprit sweatshirt at Costco. There are other brands that help you to embrace the Reagan era. Benetton was another go-to label from the '80s; last year, the brand collaborated with "Stranger Things" to create looks for the characters that felt on-trend for the '80s. Again, most of these have sold out online, but there are resale options available for both Esprit and Benetton, namely on eBay. Ocean Pacific was the go-to brand for a surfer, skater vibe, and the classic Pacific Sun Pullover would look cool with a pair of Vans and a denim maxi skirt now, like it did then. For another '80s-centric brand with a chest logo, consider the Champion Women's Crewneck Sweatshirt. For a T-shirt option, the "C.K." on a Calvin Klein tee is as recognizable now as it was in the '80s. Get the look with the Women's Monogram Logo Crewneck T-Shirt.
So how should a logo top be styled now, as opposed to the 1980s? Back then, logo sweatshirts weren't part of a considered outfit, per se, whereas in the 2020s, that's how to make it work; it's not something you just throw on with a pair of jeans. Definitely incorporate other '80s-era elements, like an acid-wash denim vest (here's how to embrace the '80s fashion revival by acid washing your own jeans), fishnet tights, or power shoulders, while also adding modern touches, like on-trend accessories, and a skirt or pants that feel very 2026. That stops you from looking like you're going to an '80s-themed party.
Make your '80s-inspired matching sweat sets intentional
If you want a Gen X fashion trend that still feels chic today, then matching tracksuits might be calling your name. We've seen tons of influencers throwing on their coordinated sweatpants and sweatshirts, heading to the airport in their cozy travel wear. But this look can be more than just a travel outfit if it's done with intention, so it looks refined rather than sloppy. We love the potential for a high-low mix with this aesthetic. For example, complement your sweats with prominent jewelry and accessories. In the fall and winter, you can wear an elegant coat over the top to strike a balance with the rest of your casual 'fit.
Nail the logo trend and the matching sweatsuit look with the Lacoste Women's Tracksuit Trouser and coordinating Women's Fleece Lounge Sweatshirt. For a wallet-friendly version, check out the Reebok Women's Crewneck and Straight-Leg Pant Set that features the brand's logo prominently on the chest. For a non-logo budget-conscious set, consider the well-reviewed PrettyGarden 2-Piece Lounge Set, which comes in 32 color options.
If logos aren't your thing, consider a nostalgic band top
Advertising the brand of your shirt isn't everyone's thing. But if you still want to get in on the '80s nostalgia with a statement-making top, then consider a band T-shirt or sweatshirt for your next outfit. Before the '80s, band tees were something you had because you'd actually been to the concert. But in the '80s, they became fashionable. And here they are again as a way of advertising your personal taste in music with something a bit playful or edgy. We love seeing a band top paired with something unexpected, like a slip skirt or lace shorts. Or add one as part of your work-wear with trousers and a jacket.
Nothing beats the real deal by getting a vintage band shirt or sweatshirt from the '80s, which you can find at second-hand shops, and online on Etsy and eBay. But there's also an abundance of new options online; it just depends what musical energy you want to embrace. For peak '80s, try the Blondie Punk Zine Collage T-Shirt, a Journey T-shirt for Women, or a Queen Unisex Adult Official Merch Stance Hoodie. For more inspo, check out these other ideas for how to style your coolest band tees.
How we chose the '80s-inspired items included here
Clearly the spirit of the '80s is alive and well in fashion, with a bevy of clothing options available to embrace the trend. The pieces recommended here tick a number of boxes when it comes to shopping for garments that fill the nostalgia bucket. They fit the revival trends, for starters. They also come at a variety of price points, with budget-conscious picks at the forefront. Hopefully, our picks are more readily available than those popular Esprit sweatshirts at Costco. And finally, we didn't just go with our own personal tastes — we took into consideration what other taste-makers were discussing, as well as what reviewers had to say about these picks. Whether it's a logo sweatshirt, a matching tracksuit, or a band tee, hopefully there are a few things that have you adding to cart, or at least feeling inspired with fresh outfit ideas.