Founded in 1906, Cherry Blossom has been the nation’s favourite shoe care brand for 120 years, rising from humble beginnings in Edwardian London to becoming a household name and a globally recognised brand. We’ve been there through changing fashions, historic moments and everyday milestones.
For 120 years, Cherry Blossom has helped generations care for the shoes that carry them through life. As we continue our journey through the decades, we arrive in the 1980s – a decade of bold fashion, big personalities and footwear that was every bit as expressive as the people wearing it.
Welcome to the 1980s
If the 1970s were about finding your individual style, the 1980s were about turning it up a notch. Fashion became bigger, brighter and bolder, influenced by pop stars, television, sport and the growing fitness craze.
Power dressing took over the workplace, with sharp tailoring, strong shoulders and polished accessories becoming synonymous with success. Outside the office, denim, neon colours, leggings and oversized silhouettes dominated the high street. And footwear was anything but boring.
1980s Footwear: Trainers Take Centre Stage
The 1980s saw trainers move beyond the sports field and firmly into everyday fashion. High-top trainers, colourful running shoes and classic canvas styles became wardrobe staples, particularly among younger generations.
The growing popularity of aerobics and fitness culture helped fuel the trainer boom whilst brands began creating increasingly fashionable designs that could be worn both for exercise and everyday life.
But trainers weren't the only footwear making an impact. Women's fashion embraced everything from pointed court shoes and kitten heels to knee-high boots and bold, brightly coloured styles. Men continued to wear classic leather Oxfords, brogues and loafers whilst casual leather boots offered a more relaxed alternative.
For many, shoes became an extension of personal identity. Whether you were dressing for the office, heading to a gig or hitting the dance floor, your footwear helped complete the look.
Looking After 1980s Shoes
As footwear became more varied, so did the need for different types of shoe care. Leather shoes and boots still benefited from regular cleaning and polishing, helping remove dirt, restore shine and protect against everyday wear.
As trainers became increasingly popular, keeping them clean and looking fresh was just as important. After all, a brand-new pair of trainers deserved to stay looking that way for as long as possible.
Cherry Blossom in the 1980s
Through all these changing trends, Cherry Blossom remained a familiar name in British shoe care. From polished work shoes and school shoes to leather boots and the latest casual styles, our products helped generations keep their favourite footwear looking its best.
The decade may have embraced new materials, new styles and new ways of wearing shoes, but the importance of looking after them hadn't changed.
A Decade of Big Style
The 1980s proved that footwear could be practical, fashionable and a powerful form of self-expression. From colourful trainers to polished leather shoes, there was a style for everyone.
Four decades later, the fashion may feel nostalgic, but the lesson remains timeless: whatever your style, looking after your shoes helps them go further.
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