Ah, fashion trends! They come, they go, and sometimes they linger a bit too long. For baby boomers, certain styles were the peak of cool back in the day. But fast forward to now, and these trends might just need to gracefully bow out of the fashion scene.
1. **Bermuda Shorts**: Remember those long shorts that hit right above the knee? Bermuda shorts were all the rage, offering a mix of comfort and style in the boomer days. They were perfect for a casual day out or a trip to the beach. However, in today’s fashion world, they can seem a bit too frumpy and not as flattering as more modern cuts.
The challenge with Bermuda shorts is that they can often appear baggy, making them look less polished. As fashion evolves, more tailored and sleeker alternatives are favored, offering both style and comfort without that extra fabric.
Product on Amazon: Hanes Women’s French Terry Bermuda Short
Price: $12.99
Rating: 4.4 with 27,365 ratings
Brand: Hanes
2. **Oversized Blazers**: The power suit era of the 80s brought oversized blazers into the limelight. They were a symbol of empowerment, with broad shoulders and an authoritative look. These blazers were often paired with shoulder pads, adding to their already bulky silhouette.
While they made a statement back in the day, times have changed. Modern fashion leans towards more fitted and streamlined blazer designs that offer a chic look without overwhelming the frame. It’s time for our cherished oversized blazers to take a back seat.
Product on Amazon: Grlasen Women Casual Elegant Long Sleeve Oversized Lapel Blazers Open Front Solid Work Office Jacket Blazer
Price: $58.99
Rating: 4.0 with 959 ratings
Brand: Grlasen
Read more about: Reviving Iconic Fashion: 14 Throwback Trends We Can’t Wait to See Again
3. **Pleated Pants**: Oh, the pleated pants! These were a staple in every boomer’s wardrobe. The pleats added volume and movement, which was quite the trend back then. However, the downside is that they can add unnecessary bulk and are not always flattering to the modern figure.
Today’s fashion enthusiasts are leaning towards flat-front pants that provide a cleaner and more contemporary silhouette. It’s a subtle shift but one that makes a world of difference in achieving a refined look.
Product on Amazon: Womens Wide Leg Pants Casual Palazzo Flowy Pleated Trouser Woman Elastic High Waisted Loose Fit Lounge Pant Comfy 2025
Price: $25.49
Rating: 4.4 with 85 ratings
Brand: PEIARA
4. **Platform Shoes**: Platforms were the ultimate footwear choice for boomers looking to add a bit of height. They were funky, bold, and definitely eye-catching. Whether it was for a night out or a disco dance, platforms were the go-to.
However, as much as we love a good throwback, platforms can sometimes appear clunky. The fashion world now favors more elegant footwear choices that combine style and comfort, making platforms less appealing.
Product on Amazon: Reebok Women’s Club C Extra Sneaker
Price: $69.98
Rating: 4.5 with 740 ratings
Brand: Reebok
5. **Neon Everything**: The boomer era was full of bright, neon hues that screamed fun and vibrancy. From neon leg warmers to electric-colored t-shirts, you couldn’t escape the neon craze.
While neon can still make an appearance here and there, the trend has largely dissipated. Today’s fashion palette is more about muted tones and subtle pops of color rather than an all-out neon fest.
Product on Amazon: Adorox 12 Assorted (13″ h x 10″ w x 4 1/2″ d) Bright Neon Colored Party Present Paper Gift Bags Christmasd Holidays Thanksgiving Easter Halloween Mothers Day All Occasion
Price: $9.99
Rating: 4.6 with 1,117 ratings
Brand: Adorox
6. **Fanny Packs**: These handy little waist bags were both functional and fashionable in the boomer years. They offered convenience like no other, keeping essentials close and hands-free.
Fanny packs have tried to make a comeback in recent years, but they haven’t quite reached their former glory. Instead, crossbody bags and chic backpacks have taken center stage, offering style and practicality minus the retro vibe.
Product on Amazon: Carhartt Adjustable Waist, Durable, Water Resistant Hip Pack, Brown, One Size
Price: $29.99
Rating: 4.7 with 755 ratings
Brand: Carhartt
7. **Tie-Dye Everything**: Tie-dye was a boomer favorite, resonating with the free-spirited and artistic vibes of the era. It was a DIY fashion statement that allowed creativity to flow.
In contemporary fashion, while tie-dye hasn’t disappeared, it’s more subdued and often reserved for casual wear or seasonal pieces. The full-on tie-dye look is rarely seen on the fashion-forward streets of today.
Product on Amazon: SweatyRocks Women’s Tie Dye Sleeveless Workout Casual Cropped Tank Top Shirts
Price: $16.99
Rating: 4.1 with 1,930 ratings
Brand: SweatyRocks
8. **Shoulder Pads**: A staple of the 80s, shoulder pads were the epitome of boomer fashion. They added structure and a commanding presence to outfits.
But as fashion has evolved, the exaggerated shoulder pad look has become outdated. The fashion world now embraces natural silhouettes and softer lines, making shoulder pads seem like a relic of the past.
Product on Amazon: 12 Pairs Shoulder Pads Sewing Set-in Shoulder Pads Foam Pads for Blazer T-Shirt Clothes
Price: $7.99
Rating: 3.9 with 977 ratings
Brand: Jolbndcv
9. **Safari Jackets**: Often associated with adventure and exploration, safari jackets were a trendy choice for boomers. They offered a rugged yet stylish look with their multiple pockets and belted waists.
However, as style preferences have shifted, these jackets are not as prevalent. Modern trends favor cleaner lines and more versatile outerwear choices that don’t scream ‘safari.’
Product on Amazon: Runcati Mens Safari Jacket Military Utility Multi Pocket Casual Outdoor Fishing Cargo Outwear Coat with Belt
Price: $49.99
Rating: 4.0 with 67 ratings
Brand: Runcati
10. **Bell-Bottoms**: Once synonymous with freedom and expression, bell-bottoms were a defining feature of boomer fashion. The dramatic flare from the knee down made them a standout piece.
While they occasionally make a comeback, bell-bottoms are more nostalgia than a staple in modern wardrobes. Skinny and straight-leg jeans have become the more preferred styles, offering versatility and ease.
Product on Amazon: KDF High Waisted Bell Bottom Jeans for Women Flare Jeans for Women Stretch Wide Leg Jeans
Price: $37.88
Rating: 4.3 with 1,502 ratings
Brand: KDF
As we bid farewell to these boomer fashion trends, we embrace an exciting future where fashion continuously reinvents itself. It’s a reminder that while trends may come and go, personal style is timeless. So let’s celebrate the past while eagerly looking forward to the innovations and styles that lie ahead.
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