Remember the 1980′s

Remember the 1980′s

Dec 18

The 1980’s was characterised by Royal weddings, electro music, outlandish fashion and television cartoon characters.

The Royal Wedding

Prince Charles marrying Lady Diana Spencer in 1981 is one of the most popular television events of all time. To this day, many people remember exactly where they were at the moment the couple appeared on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. A year later, in June 1982, the couple presented their first child, a son, William, to the world and in 1985 they had another son, Harry. In 1986 there was another Royal wedding when Prince Andrew married Sarah Ferguson.

Music

The 1980’s saw the rise in popularity of hip hop and rap, which provided a contrast to the electro pop and new romantic music commonly associated with the 80’s. Bands and artists included Blondie, Adam Ant, Michael Jackson, Culture Club, Bros, Kylie Minogue, Wham! and the Eurhythmics.

Style and fashion

The 80’s are synonymous with big hair and power dressing thanks to cult television programmes such as Dynasty and Dallas, and the changes in lifestyle and politics which created more opportunities for women. Shoulder pads were big business and loud prints, shell suits, logo t-shirts, stonewash jeans, leggings and leg warmers were also very popular. For men shell suits, denim jackets, stonewash and acid-washed denim, bright colours and aviator glasses made up the look du jour.

Toys

Many toys have become popular symbols of the 1980’s. The Rubik’s cube, Sylvanian Familes figurines, BMX bikes, Cabbage Patch Kids dolls and My Little Pony all became popular toys during the 80’s and some are still going strong today. Children’s programmes also became very popular during the 1980’s and many people have fond memories of programmes including Roland Rat, Rainbow, Paddington Bear, Postman Pat, Button Moon and the Raggy Dolls.