In the 80's was it common to confuse all the men with women?

No, but I wasn't aware it is common now, either!

All the hair bands shopped at Lane Bryant

Today they're confused themselves.

Only in hair metal bands

My wife (now ex) bought me my first thong swimwear in the 80s. I doubt anyone confused me for a woman. I still wear thongs to the beach when it's illegal to go nude.

The men had better makeup 💄