NOT ONLY NEWS: As artificial intelligence and social media revive the fashion and beauty trends of the 1980s, veteran actor Rati Agnihotri has shared her views on what worked—and what did not—from the iconic era.
Agnihotri, known for memorable films such as Ek Duuje Ke Liye (1981) and Coolie (1983), says she enjoys seeing young people experiment with the distinctive looks of the decade.
“It feels good that we’ve been there, done that, and youngsters are having fun with those looks again,” she said, reflecting on the renewed interest in ’80s fashion.
However, according to Agnihotri, simply recreating the appearance of the era is not enough. She feels that the flavour, authenticity and tones of the original ’80s style are often missing from modern recreations. “The soul of the ’80s is missing,” she observed.
An ’80s Trend Worth Skipping
While many elements of the decade are making a comeback, Agnihotri has one fashion trend she would rather leave behind—the pointed cholis, which were designed in a distinctive cone-like shape.
How to Get the ’80s Look Right
Agnihotri also recalled the makeup style that defined the era. The look was centred around dramatic eyes, defined lips and a prominent pout, while nude shades and muted colours were largely avoided.
She explained that ’80s makeup was not cakey, but it was also not blended as seamlessly as modern makeup. Even the terminology has evolved over the years. Products once commonly referred to as panstick would today be associated with what people call concealer.
As ’80s-inspired fashion and beauty continue to return, Agnihotri’s comments highlight the difference between simply copying an old look and capturing the authentic spirit of the era.
