by Yve Goodwin

Created on: March 22, 2009

The 80s was a time when a plethora of styles and silhouettes were worn and sometimes even combined. Most of these silhouettes were influenced by popular music artists and pop culture. The sharp and edgy punk style was prevalent throughout the 80s. Angular lines, sharp detailing and studded boots in suede and leather added; shape, definition, form and texture to an ever-changing silhouette.

1980s pop sensation (the original material girl) Madonna went through a wide range of styles throughout the decade. In the early 80s her chic street look was one of the most widely copied in the world. The torn and tattered, off-the-shoulder tops, three-quarter pants (or bulky overalls), doc martin boots, teased hair, multiple necklaces, numerous rubber/beaded bangles and over-sized cross earrings created a wild, and baggy silhouette. Her unique style made her a true fashion icon for teenage followers, and a symbol for every parent's worst nightmare! The jazzercise craze also came to life thanks to the monster movie blockbusters Fame and Flashdance. High-cut spandex bodysuits, and leotards, cut-off tops with leg-warmers and headbands completed the sleek and sexy dancer silhouette.

Power skirt suits designed with bulky shoulder pads, square/rectangular silhouettes, or narrow/cinched waists were popular styles for career women. Boxy jackets worn with a pair of walking shorts created a casual outfit that could easily be dressed up by wearing a pair of driving gloves and carrying a PVC/metallic tote.

Sleek futuristic style metallic colour dresses designed with high neck-lines, and large keyholes that were designed in knee length styles, made everyday dressing fun and stylish. When combined with multi-coloured flats, or simple heels that were designed with unusual textures and interesting shapes; a multitude of classic and trendy looks were created.

The street silhouette is still popular today in a pretty and chic style. The classic, cool, strappy
Gladiators, high-leg open-front boots in bold colors, and basic neutrals re-vamps the edgy punk silhouette. Gold-embossed snake and lizard skin wide belts that are embellished with jewelled buckles create a stylish waist-line while adding "street cred" to a softer, more feminine silhouette. Relaxed style dresses that accentuate the shoulder-line, designed with asymmetrical elements (with or without textures), and embellished hemlines/shoulder-lines of feathers, fringe embroidery etc. gently flow over curves.

Sheer cover-ups, block patterned

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