S10E27
S10E27
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Dallas was at the forefront of this trend-setting movement, thanks to its glamorous lifestyle and abundance of wealthy socialites who loved to flaunt their extravagant wardrobes. From power suits to shoulder pads, cowboy boots to designer handbags, there was something for everyone in Dallas’ vibrant fashion scene. So sit back, grab your hairspray and let’s explore the unforgettable style moments that defined 80s Dallas fashion.
Did you know that in the 1980s, structured shapes were all the rage? Dallas fashionistas embraced bold silhouettes with open arms. Power dressing was not just a trend; it was a way of life. Women wore oversized accessories and dramatic hemlines to assert their dominance in the corporate world.
One of the most iconic trends from this era was shoulder pads. They added definition to the shoulders, giving women a more assertive look. Shoulder pads could be found on blouses, jackets, and even dresses. The bigger, the better! This accessory became so popular that designers started making detachable versions for those who wanted to switch up their looks.
When it came to power dressing, nothing said ‘I mean business’ like an outfit made up of structured shapes and bold silhouettes. Oversized blazers paired with tapered trousers or pencil skirts were common sights in boardrooms across Dallas. It wasn’t just about looking good – it was about feeling confident and ready to take on anything that came your way.
As we move into the next section, let’s not forget about one crucial element of iconic 80s style: bright colors. Just as important as bold silhouettes, vibrant hues played a significant role in defining Dallas fashion during this time period.

Bright Colors were a staple of the 80s fashion scene in Dallas. From neon obsession to animal print mania, this era was all about standing out and making a statement with bold hues. Power shoulders added an extra dimension to outfits, creating a silhouette that demanded attention.
Acid wash denim was also a popular trend during this time, often paired with oversized accessories such as chunky bracelets or large hoop earrings. The combination of bright colors and acid wash denim created a unique look that epitomized the iconic style of Dallas in the 80s.
Incorporating these elements into your wardrobe today can bring new life to your outfits. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different patterns and textures – after all, the 80s were all about breaking fashion rules and expressing yourself through clothing. So embrace the colorful world of Dallas 80s style and let your personality shine through! And if you’re looking for inspiration for your next outfit, why not try some cowboy-inspired ensembles?

Dallas fashion in the 80s was all about embracing your inner cowboy, and nothing says western chic like a well-curated ensemble. Denim accents are an essential component of any cowboy-inspired look, whether it be a denim jacket or jeans with fringe details down the sides. For those who want to take things up a notch, try pairing your denim with statement belts that feature oversized buckles or intricate detailing.
No cowboy outfit is complete without a pair of western boots. In fact, they’re practically synonymous with Dallas style! Look for boots with pointy toes and stacked heels to really nail the rodeo vibe. And when it comes to accessories, don’t be afraid to go big or go home. Rodeo inspired jewelry such as chunky turquoise rings and silver concho earrings add the perfect finishing touch.
For those looking to elevate their wardrobe even further, consider playing around with different textures and fabrics. Think suede jackets paired with fringed skirts or leather pants worn with velvet shirts. Mixing materials adds depth and visual interest to any outfit while still keeping true to the cowboy aesthetic. So saddle up and embrace your inner cowgirl – Dallas style!
Now that you’ve got the basics of cowboy-inspired ensembles down pat, it’s time to turn our attention towards accessorizing with flair. After all, no outfit is truly complete without some extra sparkle and shine!
Imagine walking down the streets of Dallas in the 80s, adorned with vintage jewelry and carrying a statement handbag. A printed scarf is wrapped around your neck while oversized sunglasses shade your eyes from the bright sun. Completing the look is a chunky belt cinching your waistline. This was accessorizing with flair, an important aspect of fashion that still holds true today.
Vintage jewelry adds character to any outfit and can be found at local thrift stores or antique shops. Layering necklaces or stacking bracelets creates dimension and allows for personalization. Statement handbags are another way to make a bold statement; opt for unique shapes or eye-catching prints to elevate any ensemble.
Printed scarves not only add warmth but also serve as accessories that tie together different elements of an outfit. They can be worn around the neck, draped over one shoulder, or even tied onto a handbag handle for added interest. Oversized sunglasses may have become synonymous with Jackie O in the ’60s, but they continued to dominate in Dallas throughout the ’80s.
Chunky belts were all about emphasizing curves and creating definition during this era. These pieces come in various widths and materials making them versatile additions to any wardrobe. Whether it’s metallic links, woven leather straps or patent finishes – there’s always something for everyone!
As we continue exploring iconic 80s style in Dallas, it’s impossible not to recognize its impact on global fashion trends. From neon colors to power suits, these looks continue to inspire designers worldwide. But before delving into that topic further…

As we discussed in the previous section, accessorizing with flair is key to achieving the iconic 80s style of Dallas fashion. But what really had a lasting impact on global fashion during this era? It was a combination of influences from designers, music, film and pop culture.
Firstly, the influence of designers cannot be overstated. Think names like Calvin Klein, Giorgio Armani and Ralph Lauren – their sleek designs were all the rage in Dallas during the 80s. In fact, these designers helped shape the entire decade’s aesthetic when it came to clothing styles.
Secondly, music played an important role in shaping 80s fashion as well. The rise of MTV meant that music videos became just as essential to popular culture as radio hits. From Madonna’s punk-inspired looks to Michael Jackson’s red leather jacket in “Thriller,” musicians set trends for millions around the world.
Thirdly, films also contributed heavily to fashion trends during this time period. Just think about movies like “Flashdance” or “Pretty in Pink.” These films influenced everything from hairstyles to clothing choices for both men and women alike.
To sum up, it was truly a combination of different factors that made 80s fashion so memorable. Designers created timeless pieces that still inspire us today; music icons pushed boundaries and sparked creativity; and movies showcased unique styles that captured our imaginations. All of these elements combined ultimately led to a distinctive fashion sense that still resonates decades later.

In the iconic 80s, Dallas fashion was all about making a statement. Bold silhouettes and bright colors were embraced with enthusiasm, creating an aesthetic that was impossible to ignore. Cowboy-inspired ensembles added a touch of local flavor to the already loud and proud style scene.
But it wasn’t just about the clothes themselves; accessorizing with flair was key. Statement jewelry, oversized sunglasses, and big hair completed each look in true Texas fashion. And the impact of this era on global fashion cannot be denied; its influence is still felt today.
As we reflect back on the fashion of Dallas in the 80s, let us remember not only the boldness and vibrancy of those styles but also their symbolism. They represented a time when individuality and self-expression were celebrated above conformity. So go ahead, embrace your inner cowgirl or cowboy and make a statement with your fashion choices – after all, that’s exactly what Dallas did in the iconic 80s.
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Before retirement, Dora was the editor and publisher of various online magazines. For example, she edited and published GEnie Lamp – an online magazine for General Electric’s Information Service (GEIS) – and the BBS Magazine, TeleTalk Online.
Now retired, Dora and her husband, Mike, enjoy RV traveling, camping, and meeting fellow campers.