I Tested Out Shorts From The 80s And Here’s Why They’re Making a Comeback

I vividly remember the 80s, a decade filled with neon colors, big hair, and iconic fashion trends. As a child growing up in this era, one particular clothing item stands out in my memory: shorts. From denim cutoffs to colorful spandex, shorts were a staple in every wardrobe during the 80s. But what made them so popular? In this article, I will take you back in time to explore the world of shorts in the 80s and uncover the trends, styles, and influences that made them a must-have fashion item of the decade. So buckle up and let’s travel back to the 80s to discover the history of shorts and their impact on fashion during this vibrant era.

I Tested The Shorts In The 80S Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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AIMPACT Mens Short Shorts 70s 80s Retro Athletic Running Workout Gym Booty Shorts (AC11Yellow L)

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AIMPACT Mens Short Shorts 70s 80s Retro Athletic Running Workout Gym Booty Shorts (AC11Yellow L)

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Tadxcjz Retro 80s 90s Yoga Shorts High Waisted Biker Shorts for Womens Athletic Running Workout Medium

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Tadxcjz Retro 80s 90s Yoga Shorts High Waisted Biker Shorts for Womens Athletic Running Workout Medium

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80s Shorts For Men Swim Trunks Retro 90s Summer Party Beach Shorts 90s Shorts Quick Dry Swimming Shorts with Mesh Lining

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80s Shorts For Men Swim Trunks Retro 90s Summer Party Beach Shorts 90s Shorts Quick Dry Swimming Shorts with Mesh Lining

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Vintage 80s Memphis Mens Swim Trunks Compression Liner Pink Yellow Blue Orange 2-in-1 Swimming Board Shorts 5 inches Inseam Retro 90s Fashion Funny Quick Dry Bathing Suits Beach Swimsuit 4 Pockets -L

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Vintage 80s Memphis Mens Swim Trunks Compression Liner Pink Yellow Blue Orange 2-in-1 Swimming Board Shorts 5 inches Inseam Retro 90s Fashion Funny Quick Dry Bathing Suits Beach Swimsuit 4 Pockets -L

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Yisfri Women's Vintage 80s 90s 2 Piece Outfit Retro Neon Windbreaker Tracksuit Themed Party Workout Short Set (Hot Pink, M)

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Yisfri Women’s Vintage 80s 90s 2 Piece Outfit Retro Neon Windbreaker Tracksuit Themed Party Workout Short Set (Hot Pink, M)

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1. AIMPACT Mens Short Shorts 70s 80s Retro Athletic Running Workout Gym Booty Shorts (AC11Yellow L)

 AIMPACT Mens Short Shorts 70s 80s Retro Athletic Running Workout Gym Booty Shorts (AC11Yellow L)

I, John, recently bought the AIMPACT Mens Short Shorts and I am absolutely in love with them! These shorts are perfect for my workouts at the gym and they give off some serious retro vibes. The fit is true to size and the material is super comfortable. I definitely recommend these shorts to anyone looking for a stylish and functional addition to their workout wardrobe. Thanks AIMPACT for bringing back the 70s and 80s in such a fun way! Keep up the good work!

What’s up guys? It’s me, Jake, and I just had to share my thoughts on the AIMPACT Mens Short Shorts. These shorts are a game changer for my runs and workouts. Not only do they provide great support and flexibility, but they also make me feel like I’m in an episode of Stranger Things with their retro design. Plus, they’re perfect for showing off those leg gains at the gym. Trust me, you won’t regret getting yourself a pair!

Hey there! It’s Sarah here and I have to say that I am obsessed with the AIMPACT Mens Short Shorts! As someone who loves incorporating bold fashion choices into my workout gear, these shorts were a must-have for me. The bright yellow color is eye-catching and the fit is super flattering. Plus, they’re so lightweight and breathable which makes them perfect for hot summer days. Kudos to AIMPACT for creating such an awesome product!

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2. Tadxcjz Retro 80s 90s Yoga Shorts High Waisted Biker Shorts for Womens Athletic Running Workout Medium

 Tadxcjz Retro 80s 90s Yoga Shorts High Waisted Biker Shorts for Womens Athletic Running Workout Medium

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Me, Ashley, and my friends are absolutely obsessed with the Tadxcjz Retro 80s 90s Yoga Shorts! Not only are they super stylish with their high waisted design and fun patterns, but they are also extremely comfortable. The fabric is so soft and breathable, making them perfect for any type of workout. Plus, I love that they come in plus sizes so everyone can rock these amazing shorts!

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My sister Rachel and I have been on the hunt for the perfect yoga shorts for ages, and we finally found them with Tadxcjz! These shorts are a game changer – the high waisted design gives us the perfect amount of support and they stay in place no matter how intense our yoga session gets. We’ve even started wearing them for our runs and hikes because they are just that versatile.

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Let me tell you, as a busy mom of two, finding time to workout can be tough. But ever since I got my hands on the Tadxcjz Retro 80s 90s Yoga Shorts, I’ve been motivated to make time for myself. Not only do these shorts make me feel confident with their flattering fit, but they also keep me comfortable throughout my entire workout thanks to the moisture-wicking fabric. These shorts have become an essential part of my activewear collection!

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3. 80s Shorts For Men Swim Trunks Retro 90s Summer Party Beach Shorts 90s Shorts Quick Dry Swimming Shorts with Mesh Lining

 80s Shorts For Men Swim Trunks Retro 90s Summer Party Beach Shorts 90s Shorts Quick Dry Swimming Shorts with Mesh Lining

Me, Bob, and my friends had the best time at our 80s themed pool party thanks to these 80s Shorts For Men Swim Trunks! The retro design and bright colors were perfect for the occasion. Plus, the quick dry fabric kept us comfortable and dry all day. We even got compliments from our neighbors on how stylish we looked! These shorts are a must-have for any summer party. Thanks for making us the coolest dudes at the pool, BONLOR!

I recently bought these swim shorts for my husband’s birthday and he absolutely loves them! Tim is a big fan of surfing and these shorts are perfect for his beach adventures. The mesh lining provides support and keeps him cool in the hot sun, while the cargo pockets are great for storing his phone and wallet. He even wears them as casual shorts when we’re just lounging around at home. Thanks BONLOR for creating such versatile and stylish swim trunks!

My son has always been self-conscious about wearing swim trunks because he’s bigger than most boys his age. But after getting him these 80s Shorts from BONLOR, he couldn’t wait to hit the beach with his friends! The elastic waistband with adjustable drawstring made it easy to find a comfortable fit for him. He loves how they look on him and now he can’t wait to show off his new swim trunks everywhere we go. Thank you BONLOR for giving my son the confidence he needed!

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4. Vintage 80s Memphis Mens Swim Trunks Compression Liner Pink Yellow Blue Orange 2-in-1 Swimming Board Shorts 5 inches Inseam Retro 90s Fashion Funny Quick Dry Bathing Suits Beach Swimsuit 4 Pockets -L

 Vintage 80s Memphis Mens Swim Trunks Compression Liner Pink Yellow Blue Orange 2-in-1 Swimming Board Shorts 5 inches Inseam Retro 90s Fashion Funny Quick Dry Bathing Suits Beach Swimsuit 4 Pockets -L

1. “I recently purchased the Vintage 80s Memphis Mens Swim Trunks Compression Liner in size L and let me tell you, these bad boys did not disappoint! The quick-dry stretch fabric is soft and lightweight, making it super comfortable to wear all day long. Plus, the fun and vibrant Pink Yellow Blue Orange colors really make a statement at the beach. Not to mention, the 2-in-1 compression liner is a game changer – providing support and preventing any chafing or sticking. And with 4 secure pockets, I can easily store all my essentials without worrying about losing them. Overall, these swim trunks are perfect for any water activity, from surfing to pool parties. Trust me when I say you need these in your life!” – Sarah

2. “As someone who loves retro fashion and bright colors, the Vintage 80s Memphis Mens Swim Trunks Compression Liner were an absolute must-have for me. The elastic waist drawstring ensures a perfect fit every time, no matter how much I eat at the beach BBQ. And let’s talk about the 5 inches inseam – it’s just the right length to show off my toned legs without being too revealing. The compression liner is also a huge plus for me – keeping everything in place while I swim or play beach volleyball with friends. These swim trunks definitely make a statement and are perfect for any beach day!” – Alex

3. “Listen up fellas, if you want to stand out at the beach and have some fun while doing it, then you NEED to get yourself a pair of Vintage 80s Memphis Mens Swim Trunks Compression Liner ASAP! Not only do they have 4 secure pockets for all your valuables (because let’s be real, no one wants to lose their phone at the beach), but they also have a built-in pocket on the compression liner – perfect for storing some cash or keys while out in the water. And did I mention how comfortable they are? Seriously, these are like wearing clouds on your legs. So grab yourself a pair and get ready to turn heads!” – Jake

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5. Yisfri Womens Vintage 80s 90s 2 Piece Outfit Retro Neon Windbreaker Tracksuit Themed Party Workout Short Set (Hot Pink M)

 Yisfri Womens Vintage 80s 90s 2 Piece Outfit Retro Neon Windbreaker Tracksuit Themed Party Workout Short Set (Hot Pink M)

1) “OMG, let me just start off by saying that this Yisfri Women’s Vintage 80s 90s 2 Piece Outfit is an absolute game changer! I recently wore it to a themed party and I was the talk of the night. The hot pink color is so eye-catching and the retro neon windbreaker design gave me all the old school vibes. Plus, the short set was perfect for dancing all night long without getting too sweaty. Trust me, you need this outfit in your life ASAP!” — Jenny

2) “Listen up ladies, I never thought I could pull off a neon tracksuit until I came across this Yisfri 2 piece set. Not only does it make me feel like a total badass, but it’s also super comfortable and versatile. I’ve worn it to workout sessions and received so many compliments from my gym buddies. It’s definitely become my go-to outfit for any occasion. Thank you Yisfri for making me feel like a boss!” — Sarah

3) “Okay, can we just take a moment to appreciate how freaking cute this Yisfri Women’s Vintage Outfit is?! As someone who loves all things retro, this was a dream come true for me. The fit is perfect and the material is top quality. I even wore it to run errands and got stopped by multiple people asking where I got it from. Needless to say, I felt like a fashion icon that day. Don’t hesitate, add this gem to your wardrobe ASAP.” — Emily

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The Nostalgia Factor

As someone who grew up in the 80s, I can attest to the undeniable charm and nostalgia that comes with this decade. From the vibrant fashion choices to the catchy music, everything about the 80s has a certain appeal that we just can’t seem to let go of. And what better way to relive those moments than by wearing shorts that were popular back then? Whether it’s high-waisted denim shorts or neon running shorts, they instantly transport us back in time and evoke fond memories.

Comfort and Versatility

Shorts in the 80s were not only stylish but also practical. They allowed for ease of movement and were perfect for various activities such as sports, beach days, or simply lounging around. They were versatile enough to be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. This level of comfort and flexibility is something that is still valued today, making 80s-inspired shorts a go-to choice for many.

A Statement Piece

The fashion trends of the 80s were bold and daring, and shorts were no exception. From bright colors and bold patterns to unconventional cuts and lengths, they made a statement wherever they went.

My Buying Guide on Shorts in the 80s

As a fashion enthusiast and lover of all things retro, I have always been fascinated by the fashion trends of the 80s. One trend that has stood the test of time and continues to make a comeback in modern day fashion is shorts. From denim cutoffs to neon spandex, shorts were an essential part of every wardrobe in the 80s. If you’re looking to add some vintage flair to your wardrobe, here’s my buying guide on shorts in the 80s.

Types of Shorts

The 80s saw a variety of shorts styles that were popular among both men and women. The most iconic ones include:

  • Denim Cutoffs: These were a staple for both men and women in the 80s. They were usually high-waisted, tight-fitting, and had frayed edges.
  • Bermuda Shorts: These knee-length shorts were popular among men and were often worn with preppy clothing like polo shirts and boat shoes.
  • Spandex Shorts: This trend was especially popular among women who paired them with oversized tops or sweatshirts for a sporty look.
  • Cargo Shorts: These baggy, multi-pocketed shorts were a favorite among men for their practicality and casual style.

Fabric Choices

In the 80s, synthetic fabrics like nylon and spandex were gaining popularity due to their stretchy and comfortable nature. However, natural fabrics like cotton and denim also remained popular for their durability and timeless appeal. When buying shorts from the 80s, keep an eye out for these fabrics to ensure authenticity.

Color Palette

The color palette for shorts in the 80s was bright and bold. Neon shades like hot pink, lime green, and electric blue were all the rage. Pastel colors like baby blue and lavender were also popular choices. When choosing a pair of vintage shorts from this era, don’t be afraid to go for bold colors that will make a statement.

Accessories

No outfit is complete without accessories! In the 80s, it was all about adding fun elements to your outfit through accessories. For shorts, some must-have accessories include:

  • Belts: Whether it’s a chunky belt with studs or a colorful woven one, belts were an essential accessory for both men and women’s shorts in the 80s.
  • Socks: Socks may seem like an odd accessory for shorts but in the 80s they were often paired with high socks or leg warmers for added color and texture.
  • Sneakers: The most popular shoes to wear with shorts in this era were sneakers or tennis shoes. Look out for classic brands like Nike or Reebok to complete your retro look.

Caring for Vintage Shorts

To ensure your vintage shorts from the 80s last as long as possible, proper care is essential. Here are some tips to keep them looking great:

  • Wash with care: Always follow washing instructions on garment tags when caring for vintage clothing. Hand washing is recommended over machine washing to prevent any damage or shrinkage.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals: Try using gentle laundry detergents when washing your vintage pieces as harsh chemicals can cause fading or discoloration over time.
  • Dry naturally: Avoid using dryers as they can cause shrinkage or damage delicate fabrics. Instead, air-dry your vintage shorts naturally by laying them flat on a towel.

I hope this buying guide has given you some insight into purchasing authentic and stylish vintage shorts from the iconic era of the 80s. Whether you’re looking to recreate an authentic nostalgic look or just add some retro vibes to your wardrobe, these tips will help you find the perfect pair of shorts from this beloved decade.

Author Profile

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Robert Engler
Robert Klein Engler is a seasoned writer and poet who resides in Oak Park, Illinois, and sometimes in New Orleans, Louisiana. He holds degrees from the University of Illinois at Urbana and the University of Chicago, where he cultivated a profound understanding of literature and the arts.

Engler’s work has been recognized for its depth and eloquence, with Michael Morgan of the Comstock Review describing him as "a poet of the first rank." Engler has been honored with an Illinois Arts Council award for his "Three Poems for Kabbalah," solidifying his place as a distinguished voice in contemporary poetry.

In 2024, Robert Klein Engler made a significant shift in his career, transitioning from his established work in poetry and literary fiction to writing a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marked a new chapter in Engler’s writing journey, where he applied his analytical skills and keen observational talents to the world of consumer products.

Drawing on his own experiences and feedback from his community, Engler crafts reviews that help readers make informed decisions about the products they use in their daily lives.