16 Fashion Accessories from the ’80s That Disappeared

The ‘80s were an era of excess, and the accessories were just as bold. Here are 16 unforgettable ones that have since disappeared.

Sophia Zapanta
May 2, 2025
6 min read

16 Fashion Accessories from the ’80s That Disappeared — Lum3n on Pexels

The 1980s were all about bold, big, and fun fashion statements. Accessories from this era took style to new heights with neon, plastic, and metallic everything. This article takes a look back at 16 fashion accessories that were once in every closet but are now just a distant memory.

1. Plastic Scrunchies

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These colorful, oversized hair accessories held everything from messy curls to neat ponytails in place. Made of stretchy fabric and often adorned in wild patterns, scrunchies were the go-to for a relaxed yet chic look. They were playful, fun, and practical but slowly faded away as sleek, minimal hairstyles gained popularity. Today, you’d be lucky to find one in your local beauty aisle.

2. Chunky Costume Jewelry

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The ’80s saw an explosion of oversized necklaces, chunky rings, and statement earrings, often in neon colors or gold tones. These accessories didn’t just complement an outfit; they defined it. Whether worn casually or for a night out, bigger was better when it came to jewelry. Now, subtle and fine jewelry reigns supreme, and the chunky statement pieces are nowhere to be found.

3. Miniature Purses

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Tiny purses were the quirky, impractical accessory of the decade, often just big enough for a few essentials. These bags came in all shapes — animals, fruits, and even tiny cars were fair game. While they were a fun way to express individuality, they were hardly useful for carrying anything more than lipstick. Today, oversized bags and practicality are much more in demand.

4. Fingerless Gloves

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Rock stars and everyday fashionistas alike embraced fingerless gloves in the ’80s. Popularized by icons like Madonna and Michael Jackson, they were part of the tough-but-cool vibe of the era. As touchscreen technology emerged, the gloves’ practicality diminished, and they soon became a relic of a bygone era. Nowadays, if you see someone wearing fingerless gloves, it’s more likely for a costume than for style.

5. Lace Tights

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These intricate, textured tights added a layer of sophistication or punk flair, depending on how they were styled. Worn with skirts, dresses, or even shorts, lace tights were a go-to accessory for adding a bit of edge to an outfit. They were especially popular for evening wear or for a fun, feminine touch. These days, plain black tights have taken over, and lace tights are mostly relegated to costume drawers.

6. Neon Belts

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Neon colors were everywhere in the ’80s, and belts were no exception. Bright pink, green, and yellow belts cinched waists and added an extra pop of color to any outfit. These accessories helped define the era’s exuberant vibe. Today, belts are still a staple, but neon hues are rare in the fashion world.

7. Headbands

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Wide, fabric-covered headbands were a must-have accessory for many in the ’80s, often paired with big, teased hair. Whether worn for sport or simply for fashion, headbands helped keep the volume intact. They were iconic in the workout scene but faded as hair trends shifted to sleeker styles. These days, a simple, minimal headband has replaced the flashy ’80s version.

8. Jelly Sandals

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Made of soft, rubbery plastic, jelly sandals were the perfect summer footwear. They came in various colors and often featured sparkles or little embellishments. Loved by kids and adults alike, these sandals were the ultimate casual shoe. Though still popular with kids, they’ve mostly been swapped out for more durable, stylish options in adult wardrobes.

9. Metallic Accessories

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Whether it was a shiny metallic belt, handbag, or pair of shoes, the ’80s loved all things that shimmered. Metallics were worn day or night, making any outfit instantly more glamorous. As minimalism took over fashion, the shiny, reflective trend lost its sparkle. Now, metallic accessories are often saved for special occasions or a bold fashion statement.

10. Socks with Sandals

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This look was pure ’80s rebellion, where brightly colored socks were worn with sandals to create a daring (albeit controversial) style. The boldness of this combo was part of what made it iconic, but over time, fashion standards shifted. Nowadays, socks with sandals are considered a faux pas by most.

11. Vests (Without Sleeves)

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Vests were all the rage for men and women in the ’80s. They were often worn without shirts underneath to make a bold statement. These sleeveless wonders came in various styles, from leather to velvet, and were the perfect accessory to toughen up a look. Over time, vests became more structured and formal, leaving the sleeveless variety mostly forgotten.

12. Scrunchy Socks

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Socks were not just for warmth in the ’80s — they were a fashion statement. Scrunched down around the ankles, these socks added a playful, casual vibe to any outfit. Worn with sneakers or flats, they were all about comfort and style. Now, socks are either worn hidden away or as part of more sleek, fitted looks.

13. Windbreakers

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These bright, colorful jackets weren’t just for protection against the wind — they were also the perfect accessory to complete an active, sporty look. With their bold patterns and loose fit, windbreakers were everywhere, especially in neon shades. Today, the sporty trend is still present but is more focused on performance fabrics than flashy, statement outerwear.

14. Pin-On Buttons

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Buttons with catchy phrases, band logos, or political statements were everywhere in the ‘80s. These were pinned to jackets, bags, and even hats, giving people a way to express their personalities. Nowadays, people tend to express themselves with patches or other subtler accessories. Pin-on buttons are now mainly used as nostalgic collectibles.

15. Visors

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The visor trend was big, especially for those trying to achieve a sporty or preppy look. Worn mostly for outdoor activities, visors kept the sun out of your eyes while allowing you to show off your styled hair. These days, hats with full brims have taken over, and visors are mostly seen on golf courses or in vintage stores.

16. Shoulder Pads

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Though technically part of clothing rather than accessories, shoulder pads were a crucial element of ‘80s fashion. They were used to create a broad-shouldered, powerful silhouette. This exaggerated style, especially in blazers, was a symbol of confidence and authority. Now, they’re mostly considered outdated, and even power suits have moved away from this structured, padded look.