32 Women’s Glamour Shots From the 80s That Are… a Bit Much

John Summers • Contributor

Sep 2, 2025 1:00 PM EDT

We've gotten way too comfortable with good photography. These days, we carry a high-end camera in our pocket at all times, capable of turning out perfect selfies with just the right amount of smoothing, lighting, and even AI touch-up. But there was a time - not that long ago - when if you wanted a great photo of yourself, you had to work for it.

Back in the 80s, if you were feeling fabulous, the move was simple: you booked a personal glamour shoot. You picked out your best shoulder pads, your boldest lipstick, and you marched into a photography studio ready to be immortalized.

And what did that look like?

Well, a lot of soft lighting. A lot of wind machines. A lot of staring longingly into the distance while holding completely unrelated props - a cat, a saxophone, a cowboy hat, a weird little trophy, or maybe just a strong sense of mystery.

These weren't just pictures - they were moments, carefully curated to scream GLAMOUR in the loudest possible voice (usually with permed hair and two layers of tulle).

Here are 32 of our favorite over-the-top, soft-focus, aggressively fabulous glamour shots from a time when being extra was the whole point.

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