Nostalgic Style Moments From Hit '80s Movies That Will Give You All The Fall Feels
The '80s were undeniably a spectacular era for pop culture, as the decade not only gave us timeless music but also provided some of the most classic films. From teen flicks like "The Breakfast Club" to horror-comedy staples such as "Beetlejuice," the decade certainly pushed the boundaries of the industry. And while the stories and performances are at the forefront of why these films were such big hits, there is no denying that fashion also played a significant role.
In fact, as an unexpected '80s fashion trend is making a comeback and is bolder than ever, we've decided to take a trip down memory lane and explore '80s film fashion. Our specific focus? Looks that work wonderfully during the fall, from transitional outfits that feature DIY crop tops and off-the-shoulder necklines to ultimate examples of how layering can make fall 'fits look intentional and fun. Characters like Elvira, Andie Walsh, and Sally Albright showed us how to do it in the '80s, and recreating their looks now will give your fall fashion a cozy nostalgic touch.
The brown and pink combo from The Breakfast Club is the perfect fall color palette
The 1985 coming-of-age drama "The Breakfast Club" is a teen classic for a reason, as the film has withstood the test of time, discussing societal topics still relevant decades later. In it, Molly Ringwald stars as Claire Standish, who looks fabulous in a simple pink top and a brown knee-length skirt. The 'fit was completed with a brown statement belt and boots, creating a perfect fall look. And speaking of the actor, Molly Ringwald's quirky style provides even more fashion inspo.
Spooky season fashion is all about the aesthetic from The Witches of Eastwick
"The Witches of Eastwick" is undeniably one of the most well-known fantasy films of the decade, and with actors like Cher, Susan Sarandon, and Michelle Pfeiffer, it certainly had a star-studded cast. In the 1987 film, Cher portrays Alexandra Medford who showed us a stellar example of how stunning transitional fall fashion can look. The character's loose skirt and tied long-sleeved top provide just the right amount of breeziness for a warmer fall day.
A chunky red sweater is a fall classic from When Harry Met Sally
Cozy knit sweaters are always back in style for fall, and in the '80s they were usually in bright and bold colors. In the 1989 rom-com "When Harry Met Sally," Meg Ryan's character, Sally Albright, looks fabulous in a slightly oversized, chunky red sweater, which she wore in multiple scenes. The best part about a sweater like this one is the fact that it is truly timeless and pairs well with a variety of different pieces, from blazers to miniskirts.
Brightly-colored blazers are a bold fall trend reminiscent of Heathers
The 1988 teen film "Heathers" showed plenty of '80s fashion trends, but one that Shannen Doherty's character, Heather Duke, adored was a brightly-colored blazer. While the blazer is a classic fall outerwear staple, the trends have shifted between oversized and structured in recent years. However, one in a bright color and with structured shoulders is the perfect ode to the '80s for autumn, especially if the blazer is styled in an unexpected way.
Pretty in Pink showed us that a blue cardigan is a closet staple
Another film featuring the iconic '80s Brat Pack serves as fabulous cold-weather fashion inspiration. The teen rom-com "Pretty in Pink" stars Molly Ringwald as Andie Walsh, who proves that statement cardigans are an autumn classic for a reason. The character rocked a baby blue one with sparkly embellishments, but any statement cardigan works for layering during fall. And speaking of the iconic actors in the film, the leading ladies of the '80s Brat Pack look just as fabulous today.
Beetlejuice proves a hat brings all the drama to a fall 'fit
Gothic fashion always comes back in style as fall begins, and the 1988 horror comedy "Beetlejuice" provides the perfect inspiration. Apart from the titular character's iconic stripes, the film also showcases the impact accessories can have. In particular, Winona Ryder, who plays Lydia Deetz, looks cool and mysterious with a wide-brimmed black hat. Of course, a head-to-toe black 'fit is a must for a goth-inspired look — and having fun with accessories is encouraged.
Back to the Future shows that pastel colors work for colder days too
Traditionally, pastel shades are synonymous with springtime, but that certainly doesn't mean one can't rock lighter colors as the cold weather approaches. In fact, the 1985 sci-fi classic "Back to the Future" serves as the perfect inspiration. In it, Claudia Wells, who plays Jennifer Parker, rocks a pair of light-wash jeans and a pastel pink jacket. Underneath, the character pairs a patterned button-up with a black statement vest, providing yet another great example of how fabulous layered fashion can look.
Elvira shows that black and leopard make for a classic look
The 1988 horror comedy "Elvira: Mistress of the Dark" is yet another great example of goth fashion. However, Elvira, portrayed by Cassandra Peterson, also served us another fabulous trend — the combination of black and leopard. And while going all-out and having leopard car seats might be a tad too extreme, adding a fun leopard scarf to an all-black outfit is an easy way to accessorize all through fall. However, if that feels too predictable, you can also pair the fun pattern with a bright color, especially as animal prints are the new neutrals.
Athleisure inspired by Flashdance calls for an oversized gray sweatshirt
Athleisure as everyday wear has been increasingly popular since the '80s, when an oversized gray sweatshirt was popularized thanks to the 1983 drama "Flashdance." In the film, Jennifer Beals plays the lead, Alex Owens, rocking the iconic gray top. The look, which is perfect for dance class and relaxing at home, can easily be elevated with a fun miniskirt or classic straight-cut jeans. And for those who really want to go the '80s route, a thrifted gray sweatshirt with a DIY neckline is perfect for that nonchalant off-the-shoulder moment.
Ferris Bueller's Day Off shows the impact a fringe jacket can have
While the 1986 comedy "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" made us laugh, it also taught us the importance of having a statement jacket. Sure, an everyday jacket should work with whatever you put on, but that doesn't mean you can't also rock a statement jacket every now and then. In the film, Sloane Peterson, played by Mia Sara, rocks a white leather jacket with fringe — a piece that instantly elevates her simple outfit.