Excess, and then some, was the hallmark of the 1980s. Television shows such as Dynasty and Dallas, the main characters dripping jewels and oozing glamour, were extremely popular.

Designer labels were a proclamation of success for the emerging Yuppie. Designers rushed to meet the demands of brand-conscious consumers by bringing couture to the department store. Power dressing was serious business. So was shopping. Many proudly proclaimed their love of indulgence via yellow Shopper on Board signs displayed in BMW windows.


Women began demanding an alternative to high heels. The image of a power-suited woman in athletic shoes rushing off to work is quintessential 80s. Quotes such as "It's harder to climb the ladder of success in high heels" were taken seriously. Some women began dressing in mannish simplicity while attempting to shatter the glass ceiling. Flats and low-heeled shoes in muted colors and classic styles were popular.

In contrast to the conservative business climate, the voice of color became louder in casual wear. There were no shy colors, be they primary or fluorescent. New Wave bands such as Culture Club featuring Boy George and mega stars such as Madonna and Michael Jackson encouraged in-your-face fashion.

Moccasins, espadrilles, and other sorts of native shoes were reinvented using these new color palettes. Jellies, made of molded plastic in a variety of colors, were also a huge fad. Even mens' shoes weren't safe, as bright-hued Converse All Stars and patterned Vans (popularized by the film, Fast Times at Ridgemont High) became popular.

All the excess, however, was becoming a little too much.

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