It started with Stranger Things. Then big hair. Now… shoulder pads? Here is a rundown of how 2026 is lowkey becoming the 80s, from fashion to music and more.
By Jayne Turner – Staff Writer
Stranger Things
I first noticed the 80s resurgence when I watched the newest season of Stranger Things. With millions of people watching, the show has had a clear impact, from Eggo waffles to Kate Bush, Stranger Things has been setting trends for a decade.
This season featured Michael Jackson’s “Rockin’ Robbin,” Tiffany’s “I Think We’re Alone Now,” ABBA’s “Fernando,” and Prince’s “Purple Rain,” to name a few. These songs shot up the charts, with overall streams increasing hundreds of percent.
Being set in the 80’s, it got me thinking. What other ways are the 80s back? And there are more trends than I thought.
Hair
Big hair is back! More girls are experimenting with heatless curls and rollers, which produce big, bouncy ‘dos that will make you think “Dirty Dancing.” In addition, more people have been retiring their middle parts for a side sweep. Wispy bangs only add to this look. Though we haven’t quite given in to crimping and teasing yet in general populations, it has been appearing on runways and red carpets this year.
For men, the mullet is the most obvious 80s resurgence, but men aren’t the only ones benefiting from this bold “business in the front, party in the back” cut. The difference between then and now is that these cuts are tailored to individual face shapes versus the one-size-fits-all image that a mullet may inspire.
Be ready to purchase a “strong hold” hairspray this year.
Trends in Music
Synth-pop is back in a big way, just check out Harry Styles’ latest single “Aperture.” It is a stark departure from his usual pop to pop-rock vibe. However, Harry isn’t the only one embracing the synthesizer. Carly Rae Jepsen, Halsey, and more are embracing reverb, drums, and of course, synth.
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This resurgence differs from the OG 80s because the final product is often a crisper product. In my opinion, this is a way to combine typical pop music with the EDM/rave scene, which is also increasing in popularity. With Ticketmaster wars making it nearly impossible to get tickets to see your favorite artists, many fans are embracing the festival vibe.
Synth music often features repetitive lines and a head-bopping beat, which easily blends with remixes and raves.
Fashion
Maximalism, leg warmers, and polka dots, oh my! While these buzzwords may inspire images of TikTok trends, they actually have roots in 80s fashion.
In the 80s, more was more. And now, people are stacking necklaces, bangle bracelets, and belts to create a look that says “I’m here!” Brooches and pins are also back, popular to pin on bags and shirts for a little pizazz.
Check out: Cool Girl Home Decor
To stay on par with this 2026 does the 1980s, embrace accessories, big prints, and don’t be afraid to combine prints even if they seem to clash. You can’t go wrong with animal print and polka dots! If you’re hesitant to join in, incorporate them in the form of a bag.
