The kids 80s outfit idea is basically a mix of bold colors, loose layers, and quirky accessories like leg warmers or denim jackets. Contrary to today, much of this kids’ fashion was inspired by movie characters and famous personalities which makes the style much more recognizable.
If you’re preparing your kids’ 80’s outfit for the school decades day or a birthday party, or just because it is fun, below we have 15 easy and fun ideas on how to dress your child like a complete ‘80s legend.
15 Rad Kids 80s Outfit Ideas
You do not have to spend a lot of money on kids boutique clothing to achieve that 80s vibe. The majority of these looks can be assembled with the help of simple items that you may already possess, only with a little more pop and color.
1. The Neon Aerobics Star
This is the ultimate high-energy girls clothing set. Begin with a pair of super bright spandex leggings, say neon pink or electric blue, and then top it with a contrasting leotard. The accessories are the best here. You simply cannot do without thick and scrunchy leg warmers and a corresponding sweatband across the forehead to complete the workout atmosphere.
2. The Marty McFly (Back to the Future)
To dress like a movie star, just get the layered look of Marty McFly. You will have a check button-down shirt, a denim jacket over it, and lastly, a red-colored life preserver type puffer vest on top. Top it with some old-fashioned white sneakers (such as Nikes) and some jeans to create a style that is eternal and completely familiar.
3. The Tracksuit King
There is nothing that reminds of the 1980s better than a shiny, nylon windbreaker set. Find similar jackets and joggers with crazy geometric designs or color-blocking in neon colors such as purple, teal and yellow. It is an extremely cozy children’s clothing since it is just like having party-style pajamas.
4. The Preppy Country Clubber
For a cleaner 80s aesthetic, go the preppy route. Take a pastel-colored polo shirt (mint green or soft pink is good) and be sure to pop the collar up. Then take a light sweater and loosely tie it around their shoulders. This was the rich kid style of the decade and it can be very easily assembled at the last minute.
5. The Pop Princess (Cyndi Lauper Style)
This look is all about more is more. Wear a fluffy tutu skirt or a layered mesh skirt and wear it with mismatched socks or leggings. Do not spare the jewelry, pile dozens of plastic “jelly” bangles on their wrists, and put some heavy beads on. The more untidy and colorful the outfit, the more attractive it is.
6. The Ghostbuster in Training
A Ghostbuster outfit is never a failure with the 80s being the age of blockbusters, especially in boys clothing. All you have to do is a tan khaki jumpsuit (or even tan work pants and a shirt). The playful thing is to create a Proton Pack out of an old backpack, black spray paint, and perhaps some colored hoses or wires in the hardware store.
7. The “Material Girl” Mini-Me
This is a favourite of the girls who love to dress up with numerous accessories. Denim mini-skirt, lots of lace- lots of lace headband or giant bow in the hair. With a little lace leggings under the skirt and a bit of pearls it would be like the mini pop star look that was all the rage at the time.
8. Mini Madonna Lace & Layers Outfit
You must layer everything to achieve this style of Like a Virgin era. Wear a mesh top on top of a camisole, some fingerless lace gloves and plenty of cross necklaces. It is all about the excess of accessories; the more bangles and ribbons you can put on the hair, the more real it will appear.
9. Michael Jackson “Thriller” Inspired Outfit
It is likely the most iconic jacket of the 80s. You are seeking a red jacket with black accents or zippers that you can wear with black trousers. When you can find one silver or glittering glove to fit one hand, you have the whole effect and your child is now set to moonwalk the whole night.
10. Retro Denim-on-Denim Kid Look
During the 80s, everyone was fond of the so-called double denim, i.e. wearing denim jacket and denim jeans. To make it really retro, attempt to locate acid wash denim, the stuff that appears somewhat faded or white in certain areas. Wear a plain graphic t-shirt underneath and it is a very solid, casual 80s outfit.
11. Punk Rock Kid with Graphic Tee & Accessories
To have a slight touch of the edgy appearance, yet age-appropriate, choose the punk style. You require a girls t-shirt with a nice 80s band logo or a cool graphic, a pair of plaid trousers, and possibly a pair of studded belts or wristbands. You can even spray some temporary hair color to make them bright mohawk or spikes.
12. 80s Arcade Gamer Outfit
It is a very relaxed and cool appearance to children who are fond of gaming. Locate a t-shirt with Pac-Man, Space Invaders, or Donkey Kong. Wear it with some high top sneakers and perhaps some aviator sunglasses. It is the 80s mall culture where children spend every minute in the arcade.
13. Preppy 80s Polo Shirt & Sweater Combo
It is a very clean and neat style that is suitable in family gatherings. You should have a bright polo shirt and another sweater of a different color. You do not wear the sweater, but put it around the neck and it is on the shoulders. It is a highly traditional Ivy League appearance that was highly popular in the mid-80s.
14. 80s Movie Kid (Inspired by Classic Films)
You can be inspired by such movies as The Goonies or E.T. As an example, a red hoodie such as the one Elliott wore in E.T. is extremely iconic and yet very simple. Or you can do the Chunk look of The Goonies in a Hawaiian shirt and a plaid jacket- the colors will match each other perfectly and this is very 80s!
15. Roller Skating Disco Kid Outfit
To this, imagine vivid colors and “disco” glitz. Some shiny leggings or a shiny shirt can be used. In case you can not wear actual skates, you can wear some colored sneakers with very bright and long laces and some glitter in the hair to make it look like a disco-ball.
How to Style an Authentic 80s Look (Step-by-Step)
If you have taken inspiration from any of the above styles, here’s a further breakdown how to make it work with ease:
- Choose a Base: Choose a high-waisted item such as jeans or leggings or a bright leotard or oversized t-shirt.
- Add Neon Colors: In case the outfit is too normal, you can simply add a touch of neon pink, green or orange.
- Layer Up: Wear a jacket or a vest made of denim over the shirt. The fashion of layering was massive at the time.
- The Hair: 80s hair was big. Apply a bit of hairspray, crimp it or add a huge scrunchie.
- Accessorize Like Crazy: Pile the bracelets on, wear the leg warmers and forget to leave out the funky sunglasses.
The Bottom Line: Keeping it Tubular and Comfortable
The most enjoyable part of kids’ 80s outfit ideas is that you can be so creative. But as much as it’s entertaining to dress up your kid to the max, it is also super important to make sure they’re able to move and play. Wear light materials and ensure that the layers can be removed in case they are too hot.
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