From the 'Damn, I'm old file'
Members Only jackets, known for their distinctive epaulettes, collar strap, and sleek design, were created in 1975 by entrepreneur Herb Goldsmith but first introduced to the U.S. market in 1980 by Europe Craft Imports. They quickly became a cultural staple of 1980s fashion, symbolizing exclusivity and yuppie style, with peak popularity throughout the decade. Some accounts mention a possible 1979-1980 launch window tied to broader cultural shifts like the Sony Walkman and Reagan's election, but 1980 is the confirmed debut year.People bought Members Only jackets in the 1980s for a mix of style, status, and cultural appeal. Here’s why:
Fashion and Trendiness: The jackets had a sleek, minimalist design with distinctive features like epaulettes, a collar strap, and a slim fit, which aligned with the 1980s trend toward bold, preppy, and urban styles. They were versatile, pairing well with casual and semi-formal outfits.
Status Symbol: The brand name "Members Only" implied exclusivity, appealing to the era’s yuppie culture and aspirational middle class. Wearing one signaled you were part of a cool, in-the-know crowd, much like owning a Sony Walkman or designer jeans.
Pop Culture Influence: Celebrities and media amplified their popularity. Icons like Eddie Murphy and characters in films like The Breakfast Club wore them, embedding the jackets in 80s pop culture. Their visibility in music videos and TV shows made them a must-have.
Affordable Luxury: Priced lower than high-end designer outerwear, Members Only jackets offered a sense of prestige without breaking the bank, making them accessible to a wide audience, from teens to young professionals.
Marketing and Branding: Europe Craft Imports, under Herb Goldsmith, marketed the jackets as a lifestyle choice, emphasizing individuality and belonging. Campaigns leaned into the era’s obsession with status and identity, resonating with consumers.
Cultural Context: The jackets hit during a time of economic optimism and consumerism in the U.S., tied to Reagan’s era and the rise of materialism. They became a uniform for those chasing the "American Dream" aesthetic.
I just turned 65. I had a Members Only jacket in High School. And in college. I drove a Red Corvette Convertible in the 80s and the insurance was insane. I probably was Sharper Images 'Customer of the Month' several times (if there was such a thing). I could not afford the things that I was purchasing. That never stopped me. Now at 65 I think about all the money that I spent being a material boy.
What if I invested that money in the S&P 500? What would I have in the bank today, at 65? Historically money invested in the S&P 500 doubles around every 7 to 8 years. Damn.
Madonna's "Material Girl": The Iconic '80s Anthem refers to one of the most enduring hits from the Queen of Pop herself—"Material Girl", the second single from her breakthrough 1984 album Like a Virgin. Released on January 23, 1985, by Sire Records, the song became a global smash, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and charting in the top 5 in countries like the UK, Australia, and Canada.
The Song's Story and Lyrics
