Actually, the '80s Dress Trend Is More Wearable Than You Think

Poofy-sleeved, ruffled, Dynasty-inspired '80s dresses are seeing a revival. Okay, we know it might sound questionable, but hear us out. Luxury fashion houses like Saint Laurent, Miu Miu, and Alexandre Vauthier have convinced us that this throwback trend is back — and slightly better than before. This time around, options are more understated while still keeping with the '80s aesthetic. Plus, there are also a million ways to style them so you're bound to find something to fit whatever mood or occasion you're going for (and it doesn't just have to be an '80s-themed party either).

Ahead, we've rounded up our favorite '80s dress ideas with tips to make them feel modern.

1. Add Some Tights

Saint Laurent proved that this is the perfect combination, especially for formal events and the holiday season.

2. Keep It Sweet

"Pilgrim" '80s dresses were paired with sock and sandals on the Miu Miu runway.

3. Slip-On Statement Shoes

Dare to go the Alexandre Vauthier Haute Couture route by finding over-the-top footwear to match those voluminous shoulders.

4. ...Or Just a Pair of Sneakers

Kate Bosworth made the trend casual by styling her puff-sleeves with classic Reeboks.

5. Accentuate Your Waist

If your '80s dress isn't as form-fitting as you'd like, cinch it with a belt.

6. Grab Your Boots

Black slouchy boots make a ruffled, metallic dress seem very rock 'n' roll.

7. Think Outside the Box

Pull your mini dress over a pair of wide-leg pants for a fun, unexpected look.

8. Go With All-Black Everything

While the '80s were big for bright colors, something darker — such as a ruffled LBD — is the perfect option for a night out. Wear it with black heels and a black bag like Nia Sioux.

9. Dress It Down

You can definitely rock a ruched and pleated gown during the day. Just keep your accessories to a minimum and add white booties.

10. Color Coordinate

Do as Nicky Hilton did and highlight a color in your dress with shoes of the same shade.

11. Don't Go Overboard With Accessories

When your dress makes such a statement, classic hoops, like Rumer Willis's gold pair, will balance things out.

12. Make It Date Night-Ready

Gabrielle Union wore this short and sexy style to the ESPYs, but it could easily work for a night out, too. She let the dress steal the spotlight by going with classic, metallic-heeled sandals.

13. Have Fun With Layering

Wearing your ruffled dress over a turtleneck and jeans gives it a more daytime feel.

14. Pull On Knee-Highs

We love this schoolgirl meets '80s-prom queen vibe.

15. Get Inspired By a Disney Princess

As in, add metallic shoes and a bedazzled, tiara-like clip, just like Beanie Feldstein.

16. Stick With Classics

Don't stress. Your go-to black ankle boots will work with this outfit, too.

17. Keep the Rest Understated

When in doubt, try neutral heels or ones that are close to your skin tone to help elongate your legs.