80s Office Style Inspiration: Selena Gomez's High-Waisted Suit

Aria Freeman

4 min read

Post on May 03, 2025

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Step back in time with Selena Gomez and rediscover the chic and powerful 80s office style. Her recent high-waisted suit look perfectly captures the decade's iconic aesthetic, blending sharp tailoring with a modern twist. This article explores how to recreate this look and incorporate key 80s elements into your own professional wardrobe. We'll delve into the defining features of 80s office attire, offering styling tips and outfit inspiration to help you achieve a sophisticated and on-trend 80s office style.

<h2>Deconstructing Selena Gomez's 80s-Inspired Look</h2>

Selena's power suit features a bold crimson high-waisted blazer and tailored trousers, likely made from a structured crepe – a perfect embodiment of 80s power dressing. The overall silhouette is sharp and assertive, a hallmark of the decade's professional attire. The vibrant color choice is another key element, reflecting the boldness of 80s fashion.

• Key 80s Elements: The broad shoulders and strong lapels are quintessential 80s details, while the high waist elongates the silhouette, a signature feature of the era. The lack of overly fussy details keeps the look modern yet undeniably 80s-inspired. The fit is also important; it's structured but not overly restrictive, a balance that makes the look both powerful and wearable.

<h2>Key Elements of 80s Office Style</h2>

The 80s office style was all about making a statement. It was a decade of bold choices, strong silhouettes, and unapologetic confidence. Let's explore the key elements:

<h3>Power Dressing & Bold Colors</h3>

Power dressing in the 80s meant commanding attention. This wasn't achieved through subtle hues; instead, it was all about vibrant jewel tones and striking color combinations.

• Color Palette: Think vibrant jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, or ruby red; bold prints like geometric patterns or strong stripes were also popular. Think less pastels and more saturated shades.
• Iconic Examples: The iconic power suits of the 80s, often seen in films and television shows of the era, epitomize this trend. Think strong shoulders, a nipped-in waist, and a confident, commanding presence.

<h3>Shoulder Pads & Structured Silhouettes</h3>

Shoulder pads were the unsung heroes of 80s office style. They weren't just about adding volume; they created a powerful, assertive silhouette that projected confidence and authority.

• Types of Shoulder Pads: From subtle to dramatic, shoulder pads added structure and shape to blazers, jackets, and dresses. Experiment with different thicknesses to find what best suits your body type and desired look.
• Structured Elements: Boxy jackets, A-line skirts, and structured dresses were all part of the overall aesthetic. These silhouettes created a strong, defined shape that was both sophisticated and assertive.

<h3>Accessories that Defined the Decade</h3>

Accessories played a crucial role in completing the 80s office look. They were bold, statement pieces that added another layer of power and personality.

• Statement Jewelry: Large earrings, chunky necklaces, and bold bracelets were essential. Think oversized geometric designs, pearls, and colorful stones.
• Belts and Bags: Wide belts cinched the waist, accentuating the structured silhouettes. Power bags, often in structured leather or bold colors, completed the look.
• Hair and Makeup: Big hair and strong makeup were essential elements, often featuring bold eyeshadow, blush, and lipstick shades.

<h2>Modern Interpretations of 80s Office Style</h2>

While the full-blown 80s power suit might seem a bit much for today's office, the key elements can easily be incorporated into a modern wardrobe.

<h3>Updating the Classic Power Suit</h3>

The modern take on the 80s power suit is all about finding a balance between retro chic and contemporary sophistication.

• Modern Tweaks: Pair a bold blazer with modern tailored trousers or a skirt in a more neutral color. Opt for less extreme shoulder pads or even forgo them altogether for a softer look.
• Fabric Choices: Consider more contemporary fabrics like lightweight wool blends or even silk for a more polished and less dated feel.

<h3>Incorporating 80s Elements into Modern Outfits</h3>

You don't need to embrace the full 80s look to capture its essence. Incorporating individual elements can add a touch of retro flair to your contemporary style.

• Strategic Styling: Use a single 80s inspired piece as an accent. A high-waisted skirt paired with a simple top and modern blazer, for instance, is both stylish and subtly retro. Statement earrings can also add an instant 80s touch without being overwhelming.

<h2>Conclusion</h2>

Selena Gomez's high-waisted suit is a perfect example of how to effectively incorporate 80s office style into a modern context. The key elements – bold colors, structured silhouettes, powerful shoulder pads, and statement accessories – create a look that is both sophisticated and undeniably chic. The versatility of this style lies in its adaptability. You can dial up or down the 80s influence to create a unique professional look that reflects your personal style. Embrace the power and sophistication of the 80s office style! Channel your inner Selena Gomez and experiment with bold colors, structured silhouettes, and statement accessories to create a unique and confident professional look. Start incorporating elements of 80s office style into your wardrobe today – you’ll be surprised how effortlessly chic and powerful you feel.