THE '80s ARE BACK
- BY KRISTOPHER FRASER
- 1 OCTOBER 2025
- 4 Min
The ’80s were one of the most pivotal eras in fashion. Power suits for women became popular, along with statement shoulder pads. Stone-washed denim and bold primary colors ruled the runways. The ’80s also saw the birth of Versace under the brand’s founder, Gianni Versace. Television shows such as Dynasty, Dallas, and Knots Landing helped popularize an image of rich and powerful women, particularly in their fashion choices, which were emulated in real life.
Throughout the 2000s, many fashion designers constantly referenced the ’80s, even creating full-on designs that were popularized during that decade. One of Rowing Blazers’ best-selling items is their sheep sweater, originally designed by Warm & Wonderful and worn by Princess Diana in the ’80s at a polo match. Anytime big shoulder pads are seen on a runway, the immediate association is with the ’80s.
At Milan Fashion Week this season, the ’80s were back in full force. After Y2K trends dominated the runways for the past few years, the fashion industry has found its next era for nostalgia. This was particularly evident in Dario Vitale’s debut collection for Versace.
Photo: Courtesy of Versace
The collection paid homage to Gianni Versace, revisiting some of the house’s most iconic signatures that defined the brand in the ’80s. Colorblock outfits featuring statement shoulder-pad blazers and high-waisted pants dominated Versace’s runways. The first look set the tone for a Gianni Versace-style renaissance: a light blue tank top layered over a red top, paired with a blue jacket, seafoam green capris, and sandals. Vitale transported us back to the Miami clientele Versace used to design for, with many of these looks straight out of vintage South Beach photos.
Elsewhere, Missoni stuck to its signature colorful patterns but brought back ’80s shoulder pads and statement shoulders. While the collection carried a modern resort energy—from bikini bottoms to rolled-up hems—it still maintained that ’80s retro resort feel.
Photo: Courtesy of Missoni
Among the many trends that emerged from the ’80s, acid-washed denim was the look when it came to jeans. Ferrari showcased several acid-washed denim options. Denim has become a major growth driver for fashion companies, and with the luxury market facing challenges, brands are leaning on products with proven appeal.
Photo: Courtesy of Ferrari
While the 2020s were predicted to be the Roaring ’20s 2.0, they also seem to be marked by a modernized take on ’80s fashion. What’s old is new again.