Vintage 1980s

The jewellery of the 80s symbolises a decade of economic prosperity, an industrialised society and a flourishing cultural life. Fashion became more than ever a form of individual expression, which manifested itself in different styles - from yuppie to street style to athleisure. 80s jewellery was accordingly big, individual and eye-catching! Find out more »

The new role of women

The 1980s brought about a fundamental change in the image of women, which shifted from a delicate feminine aesthetic to the androgynous, self-determined power woman. New career paths were now open to women, often in management positions. The associated financial independence and status was also to be conveyed to the outside world and was reflected in the wearing of large pieces of statement jewellery.

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What makes 80s jewellery stand out

The preferred precious metal of the eighties was yellow gold. Jewellery had to be wearable in order to reflect the emancipated, active lifestyle of the wearer. However, they also had to make a statement. Rounded silhouettes and soft lines were combined with geometric, symmetrical designs. 80s gold jewellery should be equally wearable during the day and in the evening.

80s jewellery is also characterised by the use of exciting and contrasting combinations of coloured stones. Countless pavé-set gemstones created a real eye-catcher, regardless of the piece of jewellery, and conjured up a sophisticated and highly elegant look.

How necklaces were worn in the 80s

80s necklaces had to be short because they had to be easy to integrate into the everyday life of a successful businesswoman. The long chains and pendant necklaces of the 1970s were therefore replaced by neck-hugging necklaces and chokers, usually without a central suspension. The necklaces of the 80s were wide and characterised by symmetrical designs and rounded lines.

Necklaces without clasps were also very popular.

Were brooches worn in the 80s?

Yes, because the yuppie look characterised by Wall Street led to an increase in the wearing of coats and jackets, which provided the perfect backdrop for brooches. Brooches were particularly often matched to the clip earrings of the 80s.

Which ear jewellery was preferred

The clip earrings of the 80s often came in voluminous designs set with large, colourful gemstones or were worn as hammered or structured discs and hemispheres made of gold. They were imposing, daring and eye-catching. Heart motifs and large hoop earrings made of colourful plastic and in uneven combinations were particularly popular. There were no limits to the designs, even for long earrings.

What features characterise the arm jewellery of the 80s?

The bracelet of the 80s is wide, softly rounded and its design corresponds to the necklaces of the time. Angular designs, which were still very popular in the previous decade, are rarely found in arm and neck jewellery. Despite their dimensions, bracelets were preferably worn in large numbers and in combination with each other.

What did 80s jewellery for men look like?

Timeless pieces of men's jewellery such as cufflinks, tie pins or signet rings were absolute classics in the vintage jewellery and continued to be worn in the 1980s, but were more daring in this decade. Coloured stones and pearls were not uncommon. The gold necklace also found its way into men's jewellery in an extravagant form and was now worn in solid designs and in large numbers. The emerging hip-hop culture provided the impetus for this. 80s jewellery also offered men more opportunities than ever for individual expression.