The Stranger Look

I think we can all learn a little something about style from every decade. The ladies in everyone’s new favorite TV show exhibit classic looks from the 80s with a modern twist. Since we are coming up on the best holiday of the year (in my humble opinion) these outfit ideas could work as Halloween costumes as well as a little mix-up in your everyday style! Maybe you want to try something new, maybe you want to try something old, maybe you just woke up for work and can’t figure out what the heck you haven’t worn that cardigan with already.

If you’re a little adventurous (and stuck in a foreign dimension)…

Try Barb:

With her insanely high-waisted jeans, a plaid top, and statement glasses, you’re sure to turn heads and catch some eyes. Her Doc Martens certainly make for some good stomping shoes so it’s honestly a wonder she couldn’t fight off a demogorgon with these on. That blue puffer jacket is the perfect finishing touch and doubles in functionality, keeping her warm during those freezing nights in the upside-down.

If you’re indecisive but modest (and trying to get a guy)…

Try Nancy:

She offers us an entire palate of wardrobe throughout the series, looking tougher and more confident toward the end. Her collared button down and pink cardigan paired with a striped a-line skirt could easily be a professional outfit with a swap for a pencil skirt to make the look a little more polished. She quickly goes from “innocent homework finisher” to “making out with the bad boy” in a little more scandalous button down denim skirt but keeps her virtues close beneath a turtleneck sweater. Wear either of these with oxfords for class time or wedges for a night out with Steve Harrington. Lastly, Nancy is done playing around and ready to fight for her friend in a more comfortable outfit. Her mid-rise straight leg jeans mean business with a corduroy jacket and Keds, you know, in case she needs to run away from something terrifying crawling through the wall.

If you’re more casual (and frantic because your child is missing)…

Try Joyce:

Obviously, Joyce is not very concerned about what she is wearing given the circumstances but since this is the 1980s, the grunge look is working in her favor. Her utilitarian jackets, flannels, and big sweaters fight the cold as she searches relentlessly for her son. Like Barb, she’s got some good stomping shoes in the form of chunky boots to tread through the woods. Through her alternative style it’s clear to see how she might’ve raised boys who listen to The Clash and play Dungeons and Dragons.

If you’re confused (and wore a hospital robe all your life because your father is insane and used you as a lab rat)…

Try Eleven:

Everyone loves a good white sneaker with a short and sweet dress. Clearly, the boys thought this through while attempting to make their new friend fit in with modern society. The tube socks are, quite honestly, a nice touch and put a personal flair into an outfit. However, I’d have to recommend taking it down a notch with some white ankle socks or something with a ruffle. Tone down the frilliness of it with a classic Members Only jacket or any other sporty style coat. You might also want to stash some tissues in the pocket if you’re prone to mind-control induced nosebleeds. Certainly consider shaving your head because it’s probably going to be the next big trend (though hopefully not for human brain experimentation reasons).