Fashion is a revolving door of styles—and while the 70s and 80s gave us some unforgettable trends beloved by boomers, it’s time to admit that a few of these looks have more than outlived their moment.
1. **Bermuda Shorts**: Remember those long shorts that hit right above the knee? Bermuda shorts were all the rage, offering a mix of comfort and style in the boomer days. They were perfect for a casual day out or a trip to the beach. However, in today’s fashion world, they can seem a bit too frumpy and not as flattering as more modern cuts.
The challenge with Bermuda shorts is that they can often appear baggy, making them look less polished. As fashion evolves, more tailored and sleeker alternatives are favored, offering both style and comfort without that extra fabric.
Check out these Hanes Women’s French Terry Bermuda Shorts on Amazon for $12.99, boasting a 4.4-star rating from over 27,365 reviews, perfect for a casual vibe.
2. **Oversized Blazers**: The power suit era of the 80s brought oversized blazers into the limelight. They were a symbol of empowerment, with broad shoulders and an authoritative look. These blazers were often paired with shoulder pads, adding to their already bulky silhouette.
While they made a statement back in the day, times have changed. Modern fashion leans towards more fitted and streamlined blazer designs that offer a chic look without overwhelming the frame. It’s time for our cherished oversized blazers to take a back seat.
Consider the Grlasen Women’s Long Sleeve Oversized Blazer, available for $58.99 with a 4.0-star rating from 959 reviews, offering a polished yet comfortable look.
3. **Pleated Pants**: Oh, the pleated pants! These were a staple in every boomer’s wardrobe. The pleats added volume and movement, which was quite the trend back then. However, the downside is that they can add unnecessary bulk and are not always flattering to the modern figure.
Today’s fashion enthusiasts are leaning towards flat-front pants that provide a cleaner and more contemporary silhouette. It’s a subtle shift but one that makes a world of difference in achieving a refined look.
Product on Amazon: Womens Wide Leg Pants Casual Palazzo Flowy Pleated Trouser Woman Elastic High Waisted Loose Fit Lounge Pant Comfy 2025
Price: $25.49
Rating: 4.4 with 85 ratings
Brand: PEIARA
4. **Platform Shoes**: Platforms were the ultimate footwear choice for boomers looking to add a bit of height. They were funky, bold, and definitely eye-catching. Whether it was for a night out or a disco dance, platforms were the go-to.
However, as much as we love a good throwback, platforms can sometimes appear clunky. The fashion world now favors more elegant footwear choices that combine style and comfort, making platforms less appealing.
Step into comfort with Reebok Women’s Club C Extra Sneakers, priced at $69.98 and holding a fantastic 4.5-star rating from 740 satisfied customers.
5. **Neon Everything**: The boomer era was full of bright, neon hues that screamed fun and vibrancy. From neon leg warmers to electric-colored t-shirts, you couldn’t escape the neon craze.
While neon can still make an appearance here and there, the trend has largely dissipated. Today’s fashion palette is more about muted tones and subtle pops of color rather than an all-out neon fest.
Product on Amazon: Adorox 12 Assorted (13″ h x 10″ w x 4 1/2″ d) Bright Neon Colored Party Present Paper Gift Bags Christmasd Holidays Thanksgiving Easter Halloween Mothers Day All Occasion
Price: $9.99
Rating: 4.6 with 1,117 ratings
Brand: Adorox
6. **Fanny Packs**: These handy little waist bags were both functional and fashionable in the boomer years. They offered convenience like no other, keeping essentials close and hands-free.
Fanny packs have tried to make a comeback in recent years, but they haven’t quite reached their former glory. Instead, crossbody bags and chic backpacks have taken center stage, offering style and practicality minus the retro vibe.
Product on Amazon: Carhartt Adjustable Waist, Durable, Water Resistant Hip Pack, Brown, One Size
For durable workwear, consider these Carhartt items, available for $29.99 with an impressive 4.7-star rating from 755 shoppers, built to last.
7. **Tie-Dye Everything**: Tie-dye was a boomer favorite, resonating with the free-spirited and artistic vibes of the era. It was a DIY fashion statement that allowed creativity to flow.
In contemporary fashion, while tie-dye hasn’t disappeared, it’s more subdued and often reserved for casual wear or seasonal pieces. The full-on tie-dye look is rarely seen on the fashion-forward streets of today.
Add a pop of color to your wardrobe with SweatyRocks Women’s Tie Dye Tank Tops, retailing at $16.99 and earning a 4.1-star rating from 1,930 buyers, ideal for a fun, casual look.
Shoulder pads, once a signature of 80s fashion, provided undeniable structure and a powerful silhouette, making a bold statement in many boomer wardrobes.
But as fashion has evolved, the exaggerated shoulder pad look has become outdated. The fashion world now embraces natural silhouettes and softer lines, making shoulder pads seem like a relic of the past.
Product on Amazon: 12 Pairs Shoulder Pads Sewing Set-in Shoulder Pads Foam Pads for Blazer T-Shirt Clothes
Price: $7.99
Rating: 3.9 with 977 ratings
Brand: Jolbndcv
9. **Safari Jackets**: Often associated with adventure and exploration, safari jackets were a trendy choice for boomers. They offered a rugged yet stylish look with their multiple pockets and belted waists.
However, contemporary fashion now leans towards sleeker, more adaptable silhouettes, making these particular jacket styles feel a bit dated and less versatile for today’s aesthetic.
The Runcati Men’s Safari Jacket, a utilitarian option with multiple pockets, is listed on Amazon for $49.99 and has a 4.0-star rating from 67 reviews, ideal for outdoor adventures.
10. **Bell-Bottoms**: Once synonymous with freedom and expression, bell-bottoms were a defining feature of boomer fashion. The dramatic flare from the knee down made them a standout piece.
While they occasionally make a comeback, bell-bottoms are more nostalgia than a staple in modern wardrobes. Skinny and straight-leg jeans have become the more preferred styles, offering versatility and ease.
These KDF High Waisted Bell Bottom Jeans for Women offer a stretchy, wide-leg fit and are a great option for those looking to embrace a retro flair in their denim.
Price: $37.88
Rating: 4.3 with 1,502 ratings
Brand: KDF
As we say goodbye to these iconic boomer-era trends, we also welcome fashion’s endless capacity for reinvention. This transition reminds us that while trends fade, true personal style remains timeless. So let’s honor the past with a smile, and step forward with curiosity toward the styles—and stories—yet to be written.
