Damn, the 80s were tacky

As one whose later formative years were in the early 80's (late teens), this movie really brings me back. People think 80's style is tacky now, but a lot of it was awesome. As with the style of any decade, of course it's going to look dated and maybe tacky 30 years later!

True, the hair was rather ridiculous, but at the time we didn't think so. Those styles were considered cutting-edge for the time. Just watch the beginnings of MTV; the VJ's, the bands, especially those from the U.K.

I think the clothes were kind of awesome. Some of them, at least. Unfortunately the preppy style was really coming into vogue at this time, so there was a lot of that around.

But otherwise, the regular styles were cool. Off-the-shoulder sweatshirt knits (Sam's outfit at the party, just like the movie Flashdance), Reggie's military-esque top, skinny jeans (we called them straight-leg), and flat-heel bootie, with the folded over top. I had outfits just like it. Doris, the horrible step-mom, was wearing a great white knit sweater dress with shoulder pads and a black patent-leather belt. There was a lot of neon back then, and chunky jewelry in white or neon colors.

A great movie that showcases true 80's style is "Just One of the Guys" from 1985. Another one is "Valley Girl".