The 1980s in the US meant the fall of the Berlin wall, the Columbia Space Shuttle, the Challenger disaster, Reaganomics, Chernobyl,  the War on Drugs, the Mount. St. Helens eruption, John Lennon’s assassination, IBM’s first PC, and MTV.

As for fashion, a new wave of capitalism meant that designer clothes and eccentric style was in. Thanks to the popularity of 1980s themed parties, we all know 80s fashion is shoulder pads, jean jackets, big hair, jumpsuits, mini skirts, neon or bright colors, leggings, leg warmers, off-the-shoulder shirts, and acid wash jeans.

Plastic Retro Sunglasses

These eccentricities made their way into sunglass style as well. For women, this meant colorful, plastic stand-out frames. Princess Diana wore a pair of oversized, white sunglasses in the 80s. At the time, she would have been a newlywed and pregnant with Prince William. Even more over-the-top is Molly Ringwald in “Pretty in Pink” wearing a pair of red, winged sunglasses. Molly is known to be a great teen star who was an 80s fashionista.

For Diana’s look, some white retro oversized sunglasses would give you her royal look. If you want truly eccentric, go for some red retro 80s sunglasses.

Retro Aviator Sunglasses and Retro Shield Sunglasses

A discussion of 1980s style wouldn’t be complete without the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. This photo was taken of him in 1984 when he visited the White House. His shield sunglasses are an iconic look for him. And aviator sunglasses became truly iconic on Tom Cruise in “Top Gun” in 1986. In fact, Ray-Ban aviators saw a sale jump of 40% because of the movie!

To get a Top Gun look, try retro aviator sunglasses with a gold frame and smoke lens. Some retro shield sunglasses with black and silver details channel Michael Jackson’s sunglasses.

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