Ah, fashion trends! They come and go, but sometimes they overstay their welcome, especially for baby boomers, where once-cool styles now seem ready to exit the fashion stage.
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.
Product on Amazon: Hanes Women’s French Terry Bermuda Short
Price: $12.99
Rating: 4.4 with 27,365 ratings
Brand: Hanes
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.
Among these outdated trends is the oversized blazer, which might have been the epitome of chic in the past, but today, it competes with more streamlined and versatile styles that better suit modern tastes.
Read more about: Reviving Iconic Fashion: 14 Throwback Trends We Can’t Wait to See Again
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
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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.
Product on Amazon: Reebok Women’s Club C Extra Sneaker
Price: $69.98
Rating: 4.5 with 740 ratings
Brand: Reebok
5. **Neon Everything**: The boomer era embraced bright neon hues that radiated fun, from eye-catching leg warmers to vividly colored t-shirts, making it nearly impossible to avoid the neon phenomenon.
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.
Stepping away from these vibrant colors, modern fashion has shifted towards more subdued palettes that still convey energy without the overwhelming brightness of the past.
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.
One more trend we can’t forget is the sturdy and functional hip pack, which was popular among boomers for its practicality but has since been replaced by sleeker, trendier alternatives that fit today’s aesthetic.
Price: $29.99
Rating: 4.7 with 755 ratings
Brand: Carhartt
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.
Moving to the realm of trendy tops, the tie-dye cropped tank shirts captured the essence of carefree summer days, but they have now shifted towards more contemporary styles that resonate with current fashion sensibilities.
8. **Shoulder Pads**: A staple of the 80s, shoulder pads were the epitome of boomer fashion. They added structure and a commanding presence to outfits.
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
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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.
As fashion evolves, the once-popular safari jackets have also faded, as today’s styles lean towards more minimalist designs that prioritize versatility over the bold outdoor aesthetic of years gone by.
In their place, modern outerwear has taken on a more refined look, establishing a new norm that reflects current preferences without the excess of previous decades.
10. **Bell-Bottoms**: Once a symbol of freedom and self-expression, bell-bottoms were iconic in boomer fashion, with their dramatic flares making a striking statement in any outfit.
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.
Though bell-bottoms may evoke nostalgia, they are now often exchanged for straighter silhouettes that maintain comfort while offering a fresh take on timeless styles.
Price: $37.88
Rating: 4.3 with 1,502 ratings
Brand: KDF
As we bid farewell to these boomer fashion trends, we embrace an exciting future where fashion continuously reinvents itself. It’s a reminder that while trends may come and go, personal style is timeless. So let’s celebrate the past while eagerly looking forward to the innovations and styles that lie ahead.
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