An Ode to 80s Design and Expression
Deco, cyberpunk, neon, Bowie, MTV, leg warmers –the first things we think of when it comes to the 1980s. Design choices regarding fashion, music, and movies in the 80s was seen as “revolutionary” and in contrast to its political climate. Graphic design and advertisements played a major role in defining the visual language of the 1980s. Nowadays, advertisements are shaped around the media, but 45 years ago, the media was shaped around ads. No matter who you are, you can easily differentiate the 80s from the 90s, 2000s, 2010s, etc. Its distinct look is what grants it its charm and beauty.
What gets people’s ears perked up when discussing this specific decade are the classic movies that were produced. “The Outsiders, Dirty Dancing", "The Dead Poets Society”, and “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” are all wildly famous due to their style of production and noticeable “aesthetic”. What isn’t always brought up in these conversations is magazines, design techniques, and graphics of the 80s.
While films helped define some of the cultural memories of the 80s, it was graphic design that shaped its visual identity. Unlike earlier decades, the 80s started off by rejecting modest designs and began demonstrating more passionate and striking pieces. It was no longer the goal of creatives to be subtle, but rather grab attention immediately. The transition from the hippie, disco, funky, and groovy style of the 70s to the vibrant, deco, and memphis style of the 80s was very apparent, and created an entirely new look.
The rise of technology also played a huge part in kickstarting this era of unforgettable design. Though nowadays it’s a no brainer, 45 years ago it was revolutionary what could be designed on a computer that would be considered ancient today.
April Greiman is a phenomenal designer known for her remarkable mastery of digital technology. “I got so tired of some of the famous men who were also on the AIGA board saying things like this, ‘This is the end of everything,’ and that the Mac is crap and they’ll just stick with their pencil.” She says in reference to her father and his company dismissing computer technology in an interview with Eye on Design. Some of Greiman’s work can be seen below.
Some of the biggest graphic design techniques of the 80s are ones that we still use today. Different patterns and textures that we see resurfacing in the 21st century were what made this era of design influential. They aren’t just graphic design specific, either. Patterns like neon, deco, and memphis show up in today's media but also interior design and furnishing. Concepts like maximalism, unique color pairings, and “pattern clashing” are all appearing in modern day home design, according to Kate McGregor with House Beautiful.
Another aspect of the 80s that has had a resurgence is the fashion and style. I know I thought I was the coolest eighth grader ever when I rolled up to school in my “mom jeans” and checkered vans. Looking back, I looked ridiculous. But, the companies who are responsible for this revival are doing a breathtaking job. Cowboy boots, leather everything, lace, disco, and more pattern clashing have all been more prominent as people play around more with their style and different patterns and textures.
The renewal of the “80s aesthetic” serves as a clear and powerful example of cultural nostalgia and its lasting influence. Though we didn’t all get the chance to experience this imperative decade firsthand, a deep sense of familiarity has been cultivated through television, films, music, and stories passed down by generations. Those moments of remembrance are what keep this decade alive and well 45 years later. With artifacts such as vintage magazines, hand-me-downs, and transitioning away from the minimalistic “modern home” design, it’s clear that people pine for the 80s look and its influence on art, design, and fashion. These elements all come together to reveal the collective desire to circle back to the bold, expressive, and spirited ways of the 80s.
Cover image created by author
Sources
Makin Rajin. (2025, May 22). Vibrant, Loud, and Iconic: Inside the Style of 80s Graphic Design - Zarma Type. Zarma Type. https://zarmatype.com/80s-graphic-design/
Miller, M. (2019, March 22). Don’t Call April Greiman the “Queen of New Wave.” Eye on Design. https://eyeondesign.aiga.org/april-greiman-is-still-ahead-of-the-curve/
Nadiia Chervinska. (2023, January 17). Retro Rewind: the 60s, 70s, and 80s Design Trends - DepositPhotos Blog. DepositPhotos Blog. https://blog.depositphotos.com/retro-trends.html#Retro_designs_from_the_70s
Enchev, L. (2023, February 14). 80’s Graphic Design Examples: The Golden Era of Design. Really Good Designs. https://reallygooddesigns.com/80s-graphic-design/
Samaha, B., & Algoo, J. (2017, April 18). In Photos: The Best of ’80s Fashion. Harper’s BAZAAR; Harper’s BAZAAR. https://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/trends/g6549/80s-fashion-photos
McGregor, K. (2025, May 12). 80s Mania Is Taking Over the Design World Right Now—Here’s Why. House Beautiful. https://www.housebeautiful.com/design-inspiration/a64387590/new-nostalgia-1980s-design-trend/
About the author: PK is a freshman studying advertising, art & technology, and science communication. She loves collecting tattoos, listening to Phoebe Bridgers, seeing Broadway musicals, and calling herself a coffee connoisseur. She is passionate about writing, art direction, and travel journalism and hopes to pursue any of these in New York City one day!