Now, don’t get me wrong, the 80s did deliver timeless classics like Aviator Ray Ban sunnies, and off- the shoulder tops .The 80s also produced some of the most influential women in fashion being Madonna Cyndi Lauper, Olivia Newton- John and Tina Turner.

The 1980s were all  about sex appeal – especially for the men.  Out were scruffy beards and in were smooth jaw lines, tanned chests and open collars. Think Don Johnson from Miami Vice. The girls were in leg warmers and mini skits thanks to Jennifer Beals in Flashdance. In fact, Flashdance also helped off the shoulder jumpers al la` mode. Headbands and glasses with massive frames were also a hit in the 80s (and thankfully, the big, thick glasses haven’t had made a come back!)

The 80s spawned an interesting era in fashion as the decade produced an array of styles during its (often) forgettable time the fashion timeline.  During the early 80s, pastel colours were popular but by the late 80s, dark and somber tones were used more in clothing. Undoubtedly a tragic creation – the Hawaiian shirt was born the mid 80s and unfortunately, is still seen around today!

If you had big, frizzy hair in the 80s, then chances were, you began a fashion statement. However, for the men, this meant the dreadful, repulsive mullet which can never look good! Bandanas and long, earrings were in vogue as well as lace gloves.

Another trend which has been revamped in today’s fashion is the acid washed and ripped jeans that became popular in the 80s as well Converse sneakers. Now  the 80s wouldn’t have been so memorable had it not have been for these style icons – Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, Olivia Newton-John and Tina Turner.

TIP: Click on the gals names to get a piccy of them!

Molly Ringwald
The original 80s glamour puss. Every girl wanted to be her, she was Pretty in Pink, she was getting kissed by the hunk as she blew out her Sixteen Candles. She was cool, she was beautiful she was the 80s.

Madonna
The ‘it’  girl of the 80s, Madonna is arguable one of the most stylish and influential icons of all time. Famous for her eccentricity and provocative nature, girls alike were trying to emulate her during the 80s. Madonna began many trends including wearing short skirts over Capri pants (this tend is still seen today). Often seen in garters, lacy stockings and wild, teased hair, Madonna wasn’t short of being controversial.  The multi award winning singer’s influence on fashion in the 80s make her a true star icon.

Olivia Newton-John
Let’s get physical! I’m sure everybody thinks of Olivia when they hear that famous line.  A true style icon, Olivia Newton-John made lyrca and spandex ever-so-popular in the 1980s. Not only were people dressing like her, but she began a revolutionary aerobic phase that swept people in the 80s off their feet. In addition to releasing the single, ‘Physical’ , Olivia also released a work out video called ‘Let’s Get Physical’.

Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper’s  name is synonymous with the girl powering anthem ‘ girls just wanna have fun’ and, it’s no wonder she was an icon in the 80s. She created her own unique style which was emulated by hundreds of girls alike! Her style was influenced by the punk look which she made her own. Her clothes often looked like they came from op shops which made Cyndi even more stylish! (hint: op shops are a great  place to find vintage dresses, jackets and shirts so don’t be afraid to go inside one!)

Annie Lennox
Known as the ‘androgyny diva’, Annie Lennox from the Eurhythmics a whole new dynamic to the  term icon. She wasn’t afraid to be bold and daring and this won her many fans. The 1980s were keen on the androgyny idea and Boy George also took to this unique fashion trend. Annie Lennox is still, to this day a style icon who continues to be emulated.

Debbie Harry
Who didn't want to be her? Blonde, beautiful and talented ... a total bombshell.

The 1980s were a decade where fashion made more misses than hits. Nevertheless, style icons  showed the world that even in times where fashion seems to take a nose dive, they still can make ridiculous outfits look awesome!

Stay logged onto AskBronny to find out about next week’s article on 90s style icons.