We’ve all raided our parents’ closet and unearthed a piece of clothing so outlandish it felt like a costume from another era. But guess what? Those neon leggings or acid-wash jeans we scoffed at might be coming back in style! Fashion, like history, has a tendency to repeat itself. Trends we once considered outrageous fads can become coveted vintage pieces. So, before you purge your closet of anything remotely 70s or 80s, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit 23 fashion accessories that were loud, proud, and guaranteed to turn heads in their heyday.

Platform Shoes

Platform shoes weren’t just about extra height. They were a statement piece. Whether it was chunky platforms paired with wide-leg pants in the 1970s or stacked heels with neon leggings in the 1980s, these shoes added a touch of drama to any outfit.

Oversized Sunglasses

Forget those tiny, wire-framed glasses. The 1970s were all about oversized aviators and Jackie O shapes that offered both sun protection and major star power. They hid a multitude of sins (late nights dancing, anyone?) and added a touch of effortless cool.

Floppy Hats

The 1970s were a time for carefree vibes and loose silhouettes, and floppy hats perfectly complemented that aesthetic. Made from straw, felt, or even crochet, these wide-brimmed hats added a touch of bohemian flair to any outfit. Picture yourself strolling down the beach in a flowing maxi dress and a floppy hat, a flower tucked behind your ear – that’s 1070s style in a nutshell.

Wide Belts

Not just a functional accessory, wide belts in the 1970s were a way to add shape and definition to flowing fashions. They cinched in waists over maxi dresses or jumpsuits, creating a flattering hourglass figure. Think Diane Keaton in Annie Hall, rocking a wide belt to add polish to her menswear-inspired look.

Choker Necklaces

The 1980s saw a shift towards bolder and more rebellious fashion choices. Choker necklaces, especially those made of black velvet or lace, became a symbol of this new attitude. They felt edgy and unconventional, a way for teenagers to express their individuality and break away from traditional styles.

Statement Earrings

The 1980s weren’t afraid of excess, and that extended to earrings. Gone were the dainty studs of previous decades. Big, bold statement earrings were all the rage. Think oversized hoops that grazed shoulders, long, dangly chains with colorful beads, or geometric shapes in bright, eye-catching colors. These earrings weren’t just an accessory; they were a conversation starter and a way to showcase your unique style and personality.

Leg Warmers

Leg warmers started out as a practical necessity for dancers, keeping their muscles warm during training. But by the 1980s, they had transformed into a major fashion statement. These colorful, stretchy tubes added a pop of texture and personality to leggings and tights. They were often worn scrunched down around the ankles, creating a relaxed and effortlessly cool vibe.

Neon Anything

The 1980s were all about loud and vibrant colors, and neon was king. This wasn’t the time for subtlety. Think neon headbands, leg warmers, belts, and even scrunchies! The brighter, the better, and these accessories were guaranteed to make you stand out in a crowd. Whether you opted for a full-on neon ensemble or just a pop of color as an accent, embracing the day-glow craze was a surefire way to show you were down with the latest trends.

Fanny Packs

Fanny packs, or belt bags as they were sometimes called, transcended the boundaries of both decades. They offered a practical and stylish solution for carrying essentials, keeping your hands free for dancing or shopping sprees. In the 1970s, fanny packs often sported a more bohemian flair, perhaps made from woven materials or adorned with fringe. The 80s saw a shift towards bolder colors and synthetic materials, reflecting the overall flashier aesthetic of the time. But no matter the decade, the fanny pack remained a beloved accessory for its perfect blend of convenience and coolness.

Headbands

Headbands weren’t going anywhere in these decades. The 70s saw a prevalence of Alice bands, those thin, metal headbands often adorned with flowers or ribbons, adding a touch of whimsy to long, flowing hair. The 1980s, however, kicked things up a notch. Think thick, padded headbands in neon colors or bold patterns. These headbands weren’t just functional; they were statement pieces that added a playful touch to big, teased hairstyles or taming unruly curls.

Ankle Socks with Heels

This trend might raise eyebrows today, but in the 1980s, pairing ankle socks with heels was a bold fashion statement. It added a quirky and unexpected twist to an otherwise classic outfit. Think a preppy skirt suit with a pair of bobby socks peeking out from the heels or a rocker-chic ensemble with ripped jeans, a leather jacket, and a splash of color from brightly patterned ankle socks. This trend wasn’t for everyone, but it perfectly embodied the playful and experimental spirit of the 80s fashion scene.

Over-the-Knee Boots

Over-the-knee boots are a footwear option that has transcended decades. Both the 1970s and 1980s saw them gracing the legs of fashionistas. In the 1970s, they were often paired with bohemian maxi dresses or mini skirts, adding a touch of glamour and edge. The 80s saw a wider variety of styles emerge, from sleek patent leather to slouchy suede. They were often worn with leggings or tights, creating a long and leg-lengthening silhouette. No matter the decade, over-the-knee boots have always been a powerful and versatile accessory, capable of adding instant sophistication to any outfit.

Mesh Shirts

The 1980s embraced bold experimentation, and mesh shirts were a prime example. These see-through shirts were a popular layering piece, often worn over brightly colored tank tops or leotards. They offered a touch of coolness on hot days and added a hint of intrigue to an outfit. Mesh could be subtle or statement-making, depending on the weave and how much skin it revealed. While not exactly office-appropriate attire, mesh shirts were a fun and flirty way to express individuality on the streets or at the club.

Jelly Bracelets

Remember those translucent, colorful bracelets that adorned wrists in the 1980s? Those were jelly bracelets, and they were a symbol of carefree fun. Available in a wide range of colors and sometimes featuring glittery accents, they were often worn in multiples or stacked high on the wrist. Jelly bracelets weren’t about expensive materials or intricate designs; they were about adding a pop of personality and color to your outfit. They were playful, affordable, and perfect for trading with friends or collecting as keepsakes.

Sweatbands

Sweatbands, initially designed for athletes to absorb moisture, became a popular fashion statement in the 80s. Worn on the wrist or forehead, they transcended their athletic origins and added a sporty touch to everyday wear. Think a preppy outfit with a colorful headband peeking out from under a ponytail or a rocker ensemble with a single black sweatband adding a touch of edge. They were a versatile accessory, equally at home on the tennis court or paired with ripped jeans and a band t-shirt. For some, sweatbands were a practical way to keep cool, while for others, they were a way to tap into the sporty vibes of the decade.

Parachute Pants

The 80s were all about pushing boundaries, and parachute pants were the epitome of that attitude. These voluminous pants cinched at the ankles but billowing out from the hips, were a far cry from the skinny jeans that would dominate later decades. Often made from nylon or other synthetic materials, they came in a rainbow of colors and sometimes featured wild patterns. Parachute pants were a bold statement piece, perfect for breakdancing competitions or rocking out at a concert. They weren’t exactly the most practical attire, but they were a symbol of the decade’s love for all things loud, fun, and over-the-top.

Shoulder Pads

The 80s saw a rise in power dressing, and shoulder pads were key players in this trend. Both women and men embraced broad shoulders that created a strong, confident silhouette. For women, shoulder pads were incorporated into blazers, dresses, and even blouses. This created a more structured and authoritative appearance, perfect for the growing number of women entering the workforce in leadership roles. Men’s suits also often featured prominent shoulder pads, adding a touch of masculinity and power to their look.

Fingerless Glove

Fingerless gloves were a practical and stylish choice in both decades. In the 70s, they were often made from wool or crocheted materials, adding a touch of bohemian flair to a cold-weather outfit. The 80s saw a shift towards a more punk rock aesthetic, with fingerless gloves made from leather or studded with metal embellishments. They kept your hands warm while allowing for dexterity, perfect for playing an instrument, riding a bike, or making a bold fashion statement.

Benetton Sweaters

United Colors of Benetton, an Italian clothing company, rose to prominence in the 80s with their controversial and thought-provoking advertising campaigns. Their brightly colored knit sweaters featuring bold social messages became a sought-after fashion item. Owning a Benetton sweater wasn’t just about staying warm; it was a way to express your individuality and social conscience. The juxtaposition of the cheerful colors with the often-serious messages perfectly captured the spirit of the 80s – a decade of vibrant self-expression and social change.

Leg Warmers (Again!)

Leg warmers were so ubiquitous and endlessly customizable in the 80s that they deserve another mention. Beyond the standard acrylic knit styles, leg warmers came in a mind-boggling array of materials, from lace to wool to even leg warmers with built-in pockets! They were a blank canvas for self-expression, allowing you to showcase your personal style through color, texture, and how you chose to wear them. Scrunched down at the ankles, pulled all the way up to the knee, or even layered over tights – the possibilities were endless. Leg warmers were a defining accessory of the 80s, a testament to the era’s embrace of individuality and playful experimentation.