I think the 80s were the best decade for fashion, simply because, except for a few fads and trends, fashion back then was whatever you wanted it to be. The fashion police went on vacation for ten years, and it was great.
Pastel eye shadow? While there are some girls who do indeed look washed out in it, there are also those who look their best in pastels. And I always thought teased bangs were perky and cute. I still do. As for flips, I prefer it if they aren't laquered until they look like cardboard, but otherwise, definitely perky. Colored tips have the same effect. Three hairstyles that made a girl look more alert and alive somehow. Sexy? Why does any style have to be? Who says women have to look like sex objects all the time? It's a common complaint that all men know how to think about is six; well, ladies, whose fault is that?
Now for the ways I agree with you: Perms and crimps didn't look good on ANYBODY. And those mile-long nails were just utterly ridiculous. Even worse, however, are those square ends. Tapered nails of reasonable length, even without polish, make a girl's hands look graceful. Square nails look clumsy and unkempt. Skunk-streaked hair was too artificial-looking to be attractive. Bleaching in general was a disaster; the hair always looked dull and lifeless. I never understood why anyone would want to change her hair color anyway.
