The 1980s was a decade defined by larger-than-life action movies and the larger-than-life men who starred in them. From Sylvester Stallone’s Rambo to Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Terminator, these action heroes were the epitome of masculinity and style. If you’re looking to channel your inner 80s action movie hero, here’s how to dress the part.
80’s Action Hero Style Graphic T-Shirts
First and foremost, the key to dressing like an 80s action movie hero is to embrace the bold and the bright. Think neon colors, bold patterns, and graphic tees. These were the hallmarks of the era, and they’ll give you that unmistakable 80s vibe.
Graphic tees, also known as graphic t-shirts, have become a staple in the fashion world. These t-shirts feature bold and colorful designs, often with pop culture references, slogans, or illustrations. They were a popular choice in the 1980s and continue to be popular today.
One of the reasons graphic tees are so popular is their versatility. They can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for a wide range of occasions. For a casual look, pair a graphic tee with a pair of jeans and sneakers. For a more dressed-up look, tuck a graphic tee into a pair of slacks and add a blazer.
Another reason for their popularity is their ability to make a statement. Graphic tees allow individuals to express their personality, interests, and beliefs through the designs they wear. From political slogans, to pop culture references, to brand logos, graphic tees can be used to communicate a message.
In the 80s, graphic tees were often associated with counterculture movements such as punk and alternative rock. These tees featured band logos, album art, and provocative slogans. Today, graphic tees continue to be associated with pop culture and youth culture, but also have become a way for individuals to express their personality and interests.
When it comes to styling graphic tees, the possibilities are endless. They can be paired with a wide variety of bottoms such as jeans, shorts, chinos, or even dress pants. They also look great with a denim or leather jacket, and can be layered under a sweater or hoodie.
In summary, graphic tees are a versatile and popular choice in the world of fashion. They allow individuals to express their personality and interests through the designs they wear, and can be dressed up or down for a wide range of occasions. They were popular in the 80s and continue to be popular today.
Denim or Leather Jackets
When it comes to outerwear, a denim or leather jacket is a must-have. These were the go-to choices for action heroes like Stallone and Schwarzenegger, and they’re still popular today. Look for a jacket with lots of zippers, snaps, and pockets for that authentic action movie feel.
We’ve previously published an excellent guide on how to select and purchase a high quality leather jacket.
Men’s Jens
When it comes to pants, you have a few options. Jeans were a staple of the 80s, and you can’t go wrong with a pair of straight-leg or tapered-leg jeans. If you want to be even more authentic, try a pair of parachute pants, which were popularized by breakdancers in the 80s.
Footwear – Boots or High-top Sneakers
For footwear, you’ll want to go with something rugged and masculine. Combat boots or work boots are perfect, as they’ll give you a sense of toughness and durability. If you’re going for a more casual look, try a pair of high-top sneakers, which were popularized by the likes of Bruce Willis and Michael J. Fox.
You should consult our previously published buying guides for boots and sneakers for suggestions on what specific footwear to purchase to complete your 80s action movie star look.
Suggested Accessories
Accessories are an important part of any 80s action movie hero’s outfit. A bandana worn around the forehead, sunglasses, and a watch are all key items that will give you that 80s action movie feel. A leather or metal chain necklace will also add to the look.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different hairstyles. The 80s were all about big, bold hair, so don’t be afraid to go big with your hair style. Try a mullet or a flat top, two hairstyles that were popularized by action stars of the era.
In conclusion, dressing like an 80s action movie hero is all about embracing bold colors, patterns, and accessories. With the right combination of denim, leather, and sneakers, you’ll be channeling your inner Rambo or Terminator in no time.
