The 1980s was a decade of vibrant fashion, with trends that continue to influence our style today. Among the iconic pieces of clothing that defined the era are the shorts that were a staple in many people’s wardrobes. But what are 80s style shorts called? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of 80s fashion and explore the different types of shorts that were popular back in the day.
A Brief History of 80s Shorts
The 1980s saw a significant shift in fashion, with the rise of casual wear and the decline of formal attire. Shorts, in particular, became a popular choice for both men and women, as they were seen as a comfortable and practical option for everyday wear. The decade was marked by the emergence of new fabrics, colors, and styles, which further contributed to the popularity of shorts.
The Influence of Sports and Leisure
The 1980s was a time when sports and leisure activities became increasingly popular. As a result, athletic wear, including shorts, became a fashion trend. Brands like Adidas, Nike, and Reebok introduced stylish and functional shorts that were designed for sports but soon became a fashion staple. These shorts were often made of lightweight, breathable materials and featured bold colors and logos.
Running Shorts
One of the most iconic types of shorts from the 80s is the running short. These shorts were designed for athletes but soon became a fashion trend. They were typically made of lightweight, moisture-wicking materials and featured a loose fit and a short inseam. Running shorts were often worn with oversized t-shirts and sneakers, creating a classic 80s look.
Types of 80s Shorts
So, what are 80s style shorts called? Here are some of the most popular types of shorts from the decade:
1. Parachute Pants Shorts
Also known as “hammer pants,” these shorts were a staple in many people’s wardrobes. They were characterized by their loose fit, extra fabric in the seat and thighs, and often featured bold colors and patterns. Parachute pants shorts were popularized by hip-hop artists and breakdancers, who wore them as a symbol of their culture.
2. Jams Shorts
Jams shorts were a type of short that was popularized by the surf and skate culture. They were typically made of lightweight, quick-drying materials and featured a relaxed fit and a short inseam. Jams shorts were often worn with graphic t-shirts and sneakers, creating a classic 80s look.
3. Gym Shorts
Gym shorts were a type of short that was designed for athletic wear but soon became a fashion trend. They were typically made of lightweight, breathable materials and featured a loose fit and a short inseam. Gym shorts were often worn with oversized t-shirts and sneakers, creating a classic 80s look.
4. Denim Shorts
Denim shorts were a popular choice for both men and women in the 80s. They were often made of heavy denim and featured a relaxed fit and a short inseam. Denim shorts were often worn with graphic t-shirts and sneakers, creating a classic 80s look.
Key Features of 80s Shorts
So, what made 80s shorts so iconic? Here are some key features that defined the decade’s shorts:
Bold Colors and Patterns
80s shorts were known for their bold colors and patterns. From neon hues to geometric patterns, shorts were a way to express oneself through fashion. Brands like Adidas and Nike introduced bold colorways and patterns that became a hallmark of 80s fashion.
Loose Fit
80s shorts were often characterized by their loose fit. This was partly due to the influence of athletic wear, which emphasized comfort and practicality. Loose-fitting shorts were also seen as a symbol of relaxation and casualness.
Short Inseam
80s shorts were often designed with a short inseam, which was a departure from the longer shorts of previous decades. This was partly due to the influence of athletic wear, which emphasized mobility and flexibility.
How to Style 80s Shorts Today
While 80s shorts may seem like a relic of the past, they can still be styled in a way that’s relevant today. Here are some tips on how to style 80s shorts:
Pair with Oversized T-Shirts
One of the classic ways to style 80s shorts is to pair them with oversized t-shirts. This creates a relaxed, casual look that’s perfect for everyday wear.
Add Sneakers
Sneakers were a staple in 80s fashion, and they can still be worn with shorts today. Opt for bold, colorful sneakers to add a pop of color to your outfit.
Accessories
Add some 80s flair to your outfit with accessories like chunky jewelry, oversized sunglasses, and a fanny pack.
Conclusion
80s shorts may seem like a relic of the past, but they continue to influence fashion today. From parachute pants shorts to jams shorts, there were many iconic types of shorts that defined the decade. By understanding the history and key features of 80s shorts, we can appreciate the fashion trends of the past and incorporate them into our style today. So, next time you’re thinking of wearing shorts, consider channeling your inner 80s kid and rocking a pair of radical shorts.
What were some popular trends in 80s rad shorts?
The 1980s were known for their bold and vibrant fashion trends, and rad shorts were no exception. Some popular trends in 80s rad shorts included neon colors, bold prints, and athletic wear-inspired designs. Many rad shorts featured bright neon hues such as pink, green, and blue, which were often paired with white or black accents. Additionally, bold prints like stripes, polka dots, and geometric patterns were also popular, adding to the overall flashy and eye-catching aesthetic of rad shorts.
Another trend that emerged in 80s rad shorts was the influence of athletic wear. With the rise of aerobics and jogging as popular forms of exercise, athletic wear-inspired designs became increasingly popular in rad shorts. This included features like elastic waistbands, mesh panels, and sporty stripes. These designs not only added to the comfort and practicality of rad shorts but also gave them a sporty, high-energy look that was perfect for the decade’s active and adventurous vibe.
Who were some popular celebrities who wore rad shorts in the 80s?
The 1980s were a time when celebrities and pop culture icons had a huge influence on fashion trends, and rad shorts were no exception. Many popular celebrities of the time, such as Prince, Michael Jackson, and Madonna, were often seen wearing rad shorts in music videos, concerts, and public appearances. These celebrities helped to popularize rad shorts and make them a staple of 80s fashion. Prince, in particular, was known for his bold and androgynous fashion sense, which often included rad shorts in bright colors and bold prints.
Other celebrities, such as athletes and actors, also wore rad shorts in the 80s. For example, tennis stars like Andre Agassi and Ivan Lendl were often seen wearing rad shorts on the court, while actors like Tom Cruise and Rob Lowe wore them in movies and TV shows. These celebrities helped to further popularize rad shorts and make them a mainstream fashion trend.
What were some popular brands that made rad shorts in the 80s?
The 1980s saw the rise of many popular brands that specialized in making rad shorts. Some of the most popular brands of the time included Nike, Adidas, and Reebok, which were known for their high-quality athletic wear-inspired designs. These brands offered a range of rad shorts styles, from bold and colorful designs to more subdued and sporty looks. Other popular brands, such as Guess and Esprit, also made rad shorts with a more fashion-forward focus.
Another popular brand that made rad shorts in the 80s was Ocean Pacific, also known as OP. OP was a California-based brand that specialized in making surf and skate-inspired clothing, including rad shorts. Their designs often featured bold colors, stripes, and geometric patterns, and were popular among surfers, skaters, and other action sports enthusiasts. OP rad shorts were known for their high-quality construction and comfortable fit, making them a favorite among many rad shorts enthusiasts.
How did rad shorts reflect the cultural and social attitudes of the 80s?
Rads shorts were a reflection of the cultural and social attitudes of the 1980s, a time of great change and upheaval. The decade was marked by a growing emphasis on individuality and self-expression, and rad shorts were a way for people to express themselves and showcase their personalities. The bold and colorful designs of rad shorts were a way for people to stand out and make a statement, and they were often worn as a way to rebel against mainstream fashion norms.
Rads shorts also reflected the decade’s growing emphasis on fitness and athleticism. With the rise of aerobics and jogging as popular forms of exercise, rad shorts became a staple of many people’s workout wardrobes. They were often worn to the gym, to run errands, or just to lounge around, and were seen as a practical and comfortable alternative to traditional pants. This emphasis on fitness and athleticism was a key aspect of 80s culture, and rad shorts were a way for people to participate in this trend.
What were some popular ways to style rad shorts in the 80s?
In the 1980s, rad shorts were often styled in bold and eye-catching ways. One popular way to style rad shorts was to pair them with a graphic t-shirt or a neon-colored tank top. This created a bold and colorful look that was perfect for the decade’s flashy and attention-grabbing aesthetic. Another popular way to style rad shorts was to wear them with a pair of white or black Keds or sneakers, which added to the overall sporty and casual vibe of the outfit.
Rads shorts were also often styled with accessories like neon-colored sweatbands, fanny packs, and oversized sunglasses. These accessories added to the overall rad and sporty look of the outfit, and were often worn to the beach, to the gym, or just to hang out with friends. Additionally, rad shorts were often worn with a denim or leather jacket, which added a cool and edgy touch to the outfit.
What is the legacy of rad shorts in modern fashion?
The legacy of rad shorts in modern fashion is significant, as they have continued to influence fashion trends in the decades since their peak popularity in the 1980s. Many modern fashion brands, such as Supreme and Palace, have incorporated elements of rad shorts into their designs, including bold colors, stripes, and sporty silhouettes. Additionally, the rise of athleisure wear in recent years has led to a resurgence of interest in rad shorts, with many fashion brands incorporating them into their collections.
Rads shorts have also had a lasting impact on popular culture, with many celebrities and influencers continuing to wear them as a way to make a fashion statement. The bold and eye-catching designs of rad shorts have also influenced other areas of fashion, such as streetwear and skatewear, and have become a staple of many people’s wardrobes. Overall, the legacy of rad shorts is one of boldness, creativity, and self-expression, and they continue to be a beloved and iconic fashion trend.
Can you still find rad shorts from the 80s today?
Yes, it is still possible to find rad shorts from the 1980s today, although they may be more difficult to come by than they were during their peak popularity. Many vintage clothing stores and online marketplaces, such as eBay and Etsy, carry a selection of vintage rad shorts from the 1980s. These shorts are often highly sought after by collectors and fashion enthusiasts, and can be a fun and unique way to add some retro flair to your wardrobe.
In addition to vintage stores and online marketplaces, some fashion brands have also re-released rad shorts from the 1980s as part of their retro or archival collections. These re-releases often feature updated fabrics and designs, but retain the same bold and eye-catching aesthetic as the originals. Overall, while it may take some digging, it is still possible to find rad shorts from the 1980s today, and they can be a fun and nostalgic way to add some retro style to your wardrobe.