Madonna's Best Looks from the '80s
Celebrate the Queen of Pop's 66th birthday by turning back time for a look at these young photos of 1980s Madonna.
Madonna has been hailed as the Queen of Pop since her rise to stardom in the early ‘80s after her songs resonated across multiple generations of women. As a singer with distinctly sensual lyrics and live performances, she quickly became one of the most controversial public figures of the ‘80s. Her songs covered everything from current events, including political and social issues, to religion to erotic love.
Although Madonna began her career as a singer, she branched out into other ventures and has become one of the most multi-talented pop icons in history, with experience in songwriting, dancing, acting, producing, and entrepreneurship. For her iconic stage presence, widely beloved pop anthems, undeniable beauty, and rebellious spirit, she has become one of the most well-recognized cultural figures of the ‘80s and ‘90s.
Although she’s donned seemingly every style throughout her expansive career, experimenting with everything from ‘80s neon looks to bedazzled bodysuits to effortlessly cool punk rocker layered chains, 1980s Madonna is known for several enduring classic signature styles, including her chic black leotard with matching black tights, an unruly blonde pixie cut, and deep red lipstick. Fans and critics alike have tried to pin down her style for decades, but given that the “Holiday” singer debuted a new look with every new era, is it possible to boil down the Queen of Pop to just one style? Our answer? Probably not—and that’s why she’s endured as such a mystifying, captivating cultural icon for decades. From her Jean Paul Gaultier cone bra to her iconic Boy Toy belt to her Marie Antoinette-inspired ballgown, Madonna has sported some of the most unique and memorable looks seen on a pop singer in history.
An actress, pop star, activist, and model extraordinaire, Madonna has left an immeasurable mark on the cultural landscape of the world throughout her career—a feat achieved through her legendary choreography, taboo song subjects, and all-out campy on-stage style. In eternal celebration of the pop icon who has continued to influence the world throughout all stages of her career, join L’OFFICIEL in diving into the depths of pop history through Madonna's distinct '80s looks.