PARTY QUEEN / Dec 23, 2024

SEVEN ‘80S-INSPIRED FORMAL OUTFITS FOR A FABULOUS THROWBACK

The ‘80s will always be remembered as the era of bold silhouettes, fearless styles, and electrifying colors that forever redefined fashion. It was so iconic, we can’t help but revisit it more than 40 years later.

Attending an ‘80s-themed party? Prove you’re every bit as iconic as the era itself with these dance-floor-ready ‘80s-inspired outfits.

Serve Retro Style in These ‘80s Inspired Outfits

While a full-blown ‘80s ensemble might feel a little costume-y, you can still channel the decade's spirit without being too on-the-nose. Slip into these ‘80s-inspired formal outfits to celebrate one of fashion's most fun eras, while giving your look a fresh twist:

1. Mermaid Mesh Dress with Detachable Puff Sleeves

Get the Look: GL3155 - Jewel Sweetheart Mesh Mermaid Dress w/ Detachable Short Puff Sleeves

In the ‘80s, sleeves were the ultimate statement piece, as seen on fashion icons like Joan Collins. The bigger, the better—looking like you were wearing arm floaties was actually part of the aesthetic. Subtlety? Never heard of her.

Channel the decade's love for the bold and bright in this vibrant dress. Its detachable puff sleeves offer a playful nod to iconic ‘80s style, while the beaded fabric adds an extra layer of fun. The lace-up back guarantees a flattering fit, while the thigh-high slit lets you move effortlessly as you groove to I Wanna Dance with Somebody.

2. Asymmetric Velvet Mermaid Dress with Puff Sleeve

Get the Look: GL3159 - Sequin Asymmetric Velvet Mermaid Dress w/ One Long Puff Sleeve

Asymmetric sleeves were a defining feature of ‘80s fashion—dynamic, dramatic, and guaranteed to capture everyone’s attention. And when that singular sleeve was also puffed? Iconic.

Here’s an ‘80s-inspired outfit that’ll make people think you’ve stepped straight out of a time machine. This sequin-studded dress features a puffed long sleeve on one side, paired with an off-shoulder strap on the other for extra support. While it boasts a bodycon silhouette, it’s far from clingy, giving you the perfect balance of style and comfort as you collect compliments all night long.

3. Velvet Mermaid Dress with Puff Shoulder Sleeves

Get the Look: GL3122 - Puff Shoulder 3/4 Sleeves Feather Velvet Mermaid Dress

Another hallmark of the ‘80s was shoulder pads, which are actually making a comeback. Designed to broaden the shoulders, this fashion element was all about giving women a more powerful presence. With their sharp, suit-like design, they symbolized women empowerment and were the definition of dressing for the female gaze.

Command the room in this ‘80s-inspired outfit for formal events. With its structured sleeves and eye-catching design, this look lets you radiate confidence and show everyone you deserve to take up space. The deep V-back lets you show off some skin, while the illusion neckline provides coverage, keeping the look both flirty and tasteful.

4. Metallic Blue Mermaid Dress with Lace-Up Back

Get the Look: GL2943 - Ruched Metallic Lame V-Neck Mermaid Long Dress w/ Lace Up Back

Bold, vibrant hues were everywhere in the 1980s—thanks in part to pop culture and the workout craze—and women’s formalwear was no exception. Colors like electric blue, neon pink, and lime green were the go-to choices for everything from red carpet events to prom nights. These hues effortlessly captured the fun, fearless, and youthful spirit of the decade, and were so iconic, their appeal continued well into the ‘90s.

If you’re on the hunt for an ‘80s-inspired outfit for a formal event, here’s one you’ll love. In an electrifying shade of blue, this dress offers a fluorescent-like vibe that’s sure to turn heads. The metallic fabric adds visual texture to its otherwise simple silhouette, while the ruching—another signature ‘80s style—cleverly conceals any problem areas.

5. Satin Mermaid Dress with Lace-up Back and Slit

Get the Look: GL3061 - Straight Across Satin Mermaid Dress w/ Lace-up Back and Slit

The '80s was a decade of unapologetic glam—if your outfit didn’t stand out, you risked getting lost in a sea of looks that did. While the era thrived on "new wave" fashion, women who preferred subtler styles still found ways to exude the glam that defined the time. The secret? Fabric choice.

Satin, with its high-gloss style, was a popular pick. It embodied the “look-at-me” vibe of ‘80s fashion without being over the top, while adding a luxurious touch to any attire. This was a striking contrast to the punk-rock aesthetic that dominated much of the era's fashion.

Nail your 80's retro outfit in this satin number, featuring a lace-up back and bodycon silhouette. The fabric practically glistens, giving it an effortlessly fabulous touch. Finish your outfit with oversized earrings, a bold statement necklace, and metallic makeup for that unmistakable ‘80s look.

6. Glitter Trumpet Dress with Ruffled Hemline

Get the Look: GL3205 - Glitter Sequin Sheer Bodice Mesh Trumpet Long Dress w/ Ruffled Hem

The ‘80s loved volume. This was evident in the ruffles, tulle skirts, and theatrical silhouettes that dominated runways and red carpets everywhere.

Want volume for your retro-style outfit? Say no more.

Channel the era’s eye-catching style in this ‘80s-inspired outfit, featuring a statement ruffled hem (and when we say ruffled, we mean ruffled). The hot pink hue is retro perfection, while the all-over sequins—another quintessential ‘80s element—provide a luxe, party-ready vibe. The corseted bodice provides structure and support, giving you an hourglass shape and creating a striking contrast against the poofy skirt.

7. Short Satin Dress with Layered Skirt and Rhinestone Bodice

Get the Look: GS1603 - Sequin and Rhinestone Bodice Satin Short Dress w/ Side Pockets

We love a layered moment for ‘80s-inspired outfits.

Ruffle skirts were a defining trend of the ‘80s, adding drama to every movement. Whether layered two, three times, or more, this style captured the bold energy of the era.

Attending a retro-themed cocktail party? This ‘80s-inspired outfit will make you the center of attention. Its two-layer satin skirt flutters out for extra volume, while the rhinestone-dotted bodice offers the perfect amount of shimmer. With its interesting strap, we’d recommend wearing this with your hair up. Oh, and did we mention this dress has pockets?

Stay Stylish in Any Era with GLS Collective

Effortlessly channel the bold vibes of the ‘80s with GLS Collective. We carry a wide selection of gowns and dresses with the perfect mix of retro charm and modern style, ensuring you look iconic no matter the era.

Explore our collections today and find your dream ‘80s-inspired outfit for your next formal event. Don’t forget to check out these extra style tips to slay your retro look: