Trend cluster
Category

80s
Opulence

Gen Z revives 80s corporate aesthetics office culture during productivity boom.

Executive Workwear CollectionsHistory-Inspired Apparel CollectionsWinter Getaway CandlesShimmering Sun Care OilsIntricately Jeweled Bags

Trend

What is the 80s Opulence trend?

80s Opulence: As economic instability and remote work reshape the workplace landscape, younger generations are paradoxically romanticizing corporate culture. Gen Z, who largely missed traditional office experiences, is embracing productivity aesthetics inspired by 80s Wall Street opulence, characterized by a fascination with corner offices, business attire, and stimulant-driven workdays.

Insight

The consumer insight behind the 80s Opulence trend

Having grown up during periods of economic uncertainty (Great Recession, pandemic), younger generations are developing a surprising nostalgia for an era of perceived prosperity and workplace stability they never experienced firsthand. These consumers are attracted to the glamorized portrayal of corporate success from films like "American Psycho" and "Wall Street," creating a countermovement to the work-life balance narrative championed by millennials.

Trend themes

Themes within the 80s Opulence trend

Three behaviours holding the trend together
01

Corporate Nostalgia

The revival of 80s corporate aesthetics among younger generations illustrates a counter-cultural movement valuing perceived stability and traditional success symbols.

02

Luxury Reimagination

Opulent accessories and shimmering products reinterpret luxury for modern consumers, blending nostalgic design with contemporary practicality.

03

Corporate-Influenced Fashion

The adaptation of corporate styles into versatile, fashion-forward pieces reflects a trend toward blurring the lines between professional and casual attire.

Industry implications

What the 80s Opulence trend means for industry

Where the trend changes the playbook
For

Fashion and Accessories

The convergence of classic corporate styles with modern fashion creates a space for innovative designs that appeal to nostalgia-driven and style-conscious audiences.

For

Beauty and Personal Care

Luxurious and aromatic skincare products offer opportunities to blend medicinal benefits with aesthetic appeal, enhancing user experience and brand differentiation.

For

Home and Lifestyle

Retro-inspired home products that evoke nostalgia, like themed candles, present opportunities to connect emotionally with consumers seeking comfort and familiarity.

Workshop question

How could your brand incorporate elements of productivity aesthetics into its marketing or product development?

Trend signals

Trend signals for 80s Opulence

Trend score 4.9 out of 10, from popularity 55%, activity 57%, freshness 37%.

Popularity55%
Activity57%
Freshness37%
Audience
50%Men
50%Women
  • Gen Alpha
  • Gen Z
  • Millennial
  • Gen X
  • Boomer (not a primary audience)
Market
North America
Europe
Asia-Pacific

Evidence

Examples of the 80s Opulence trend

6 featured examples from Jan 19, 2024 to Jan 28, 2025