15 trends from the 80s that were either the strangest or made no sense at all

A time of experimentation in clothing and aesthetics, the 80s were synonymous with color, glitter and extravagance. Almost anything was allowed, including some strange trends that may seem absurd today. Fluorescent colors, XXL sunglasses, offbeat hairstyles or garish make-up - we used every eccentricity to express our personalities. The legendary stars of the decade, such as Madonna, Cher and Cyndi Lauper, were the inspiration for these looks, each more exuberant than the last. While some of these stylistic choices are laughable today, others have largely inspired contemporary fashion. Here's a look back at the strange trends that made the 80s such a unique decade.

Introduced in the '80s, shoulder pads shaped women's silhouettes in ways that were sometimes a little too extravagant. Symbolizing women's authority in professional circles, they exaggeratedly emphasized their build. Bulky and uncomfortable for everyday wear, oversized epaulets gradually fell into disuse, except on the catwalks of haute couture!

Recognizable by their shiny fabric and XXL shape, parachute pants were an integral part of hip-hop culture. Particularly eccentric, they never failed to attract attention with their oversized proportions and flashy colors. Today, anyone daring to wear these '80s pants would undoubtedly provoke astonishment from passers-by!

In the eighties, it was all about who flaunted the flashiest glasses. With tinted lenses, XXL frames and whimsical shapes, people vied for originality to assert their style. While oversized glasses have made a comeback in recent years, they are now a tad more sober.

Here's a trend that's inseparable from the 80s, and it's not about to come back: leggings. Admittedly, this emblematic fitness class accessory served little purpose other than to add a touch of style and eccentricity to an already busy and colorful outfit.

A symbol of bling-bling, the golden metal chain conquered the hip-hop stars of the 80s. Worn in accumulation and often adorned with a dollar sign pendant, it could appear slightly ostentatious. While this accessory is as fashionable as ever, it is now available in a much more discreet style.

Colorful, busy and intense, '80s makeup was not lacking in daring. Bright eyeshadows, visible blush, dazzling lipsticks: no area was spared. Today, such make-up would look like wearing a meaningless palette of colors, bordering on the ridiculous.

Another eccentricity of this crazy decade: the total look in shiny polyester. How could we forget the aerobics classes where participants shimmied around in their wacky outfits? Between the flashy leggings and the tight leotard, such a look would at least have the merit of making us smile.

Worn around the waist or slung over the shoulder, in fluorescent fabric, plain or adorned with abstract motifs, the fanny pack invaded the 80s. Appreciated for its practicality, it met the needs of young and old alike. Thought to be a thing of the past, this vintage bag has made a stunning comeback by adapting to contemporary fashion.

Popularized by the likes of Madonna and Cindy Lauper, the puffy tulle skirt worked with an avalanche of kitsch accessories to create a colorful pop look. It added an absurd touch to an already busy look. Today, we're happy to bring it out for a carnival or a quirky festival!