The 80s and 90s were a remarkable era marked by significant cultural, technological, and fashion advancements, leaving a lasting impact on society. Fondly referred to as the “golden age” by many, this period holds a special place in the memories of those who experienced it firsthand. As time moves forward, nostalgia often strikes, making us yearn for the return of certain elements that defined this vibrant and unforgettable time. Let’s embark on a journey down memory lane, exploring some of the things from the 80s and 90s that we wish would make a comeback.
1. Iconic fashion trends: When thinking of the 80s and 90s fashion, several trends immediately come to mind. From bold patterns and vibrant colors to oversized jackets and high-waisted jeans, this period was all about making a statement through clothing. One fashion trend from the 80s that we wish would make a comeback is the iconic shoulder pads, which exuded power and confidence. While they may have been exaggerated at times, they added a unique flair to any outfit. Additionally, the 90s’ grunge fashion, characterized by flannel shirts, ripped jeans, and combat boots, perfectly embodied the rebellion and nonconformist spirit of the time. A comeback of these fashion trends would not only bring back a sense of nostalgia but also introduce a new generation to the fashion choices that defined these decades.
2. Classic TV shows and movies: The 80s and 90s gifted us with an array of unforgettable TV shows and movies that captured the hearts and imaginations of millions worldwide. Iconic TV shows like “Friends,” “Seinfeld,” and “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” not only entertained us but also became cultural touchstones. These shows offered a blend of humor, relatable characters, and memorable catchphrases that are still referenced in pop culture. Similarly, movies like “Back to the Future,” “Jurassic Park,” and “The Lion King” left an indelible mark on cinema. The return of these beloved TV shows and movies would give fans the opportunity to relive their favorite moments and introduce a new generation to the magic and nostalgia of these cultural milestones.
3. Cassette tapes and Walkmans: Remember the days when music came in the form of cassette tapes and having a Walkman was a status symbol? The 80s and 90s were characterized by the rise of portable music players and the widespread popularity of cassette tapes. These analog marvels allowed us to enjoy our favorite artists and albums on the go, making mixtapes for friends, and experiencing the joy of pressing play and rewind buttons. Despite the advancements in digital music streaming, there is something irreplaceable about the tangible nature of cassette tapes. Perhaps a comeback of this old-school technology, providing a bridge between the past and the present, would reignite a sense of appreciation for the art form of physical music.
4. Arcades and classic video games: Long before gaming consoles took center stage, arcades were the go-to destinations for gamers. The 80s and 90s witnessed the birth of iconic arcade games like Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and Street Fighter. There was an undeniable allure in going to the arcade, feeding coins into the machines, and immersing oneself in a world of virtual adventure and competition. The social aspect of playing alongside friends and strangers created a sense of community and friendly competition. While gaming has evolved significantly over the years, with advanced graphics and online multiplayer capabilities, the nostalgia for arcade games remains strong. The comeback of arcades would not only satisfy the desire for nostalgia but also provide a unique social experience that is increasingly rare in the digital age.
5. Mixtapes and handwritten letters: In an era dominated by digital communication and streaming services, there is a certain romanticism associated with the acts of creating mixtapes and handwritten letters. The artistry of curating a collection of songs, carefully choosing the order and adding a personal touch, was a labor of love that expressed sentiments and emotions in a heartfelt manner. Similarly, handwritten letters were a tangible expression of genuine connection, allowing individuals to convey their thoughts and feelings in a way that transcended the limitations of modern technology. The resurgence of mixtapes and handwritten letters would bring back the intimacy and personal touch that is often lost in the fast-paced and impersonal world of digital communication.
6. Saturday morning cartoons: Saturday morning cartoons hold a special place in the hearts of many who grew up in the 80s and 90s. These weekly rituals involved waking up early, grabbing a bowl of sugary cereal, and immersing oneself in the colorful, animated worlds of shows like “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,” “Transformers,” and “Pokemon.” Saturday mornings were filled with laughter, adventure, and endless possibilities. Unfortunately, with the advent of streaming services and on-demand programming, the tradition of Saturday morning cartoons has faded away. A revival of this cherished ritual would not only bring joy to children and adults alike but also provide an opportunity for families to bond and create lasting memories.
7. Roller skating rinks: Roller skating rinks were a popular recreational activity in the 80s and 90s, providing a space for people to gather, socialize, and showcase their skating skills. These venues were characterized by flashy neon lights, catchy music, and an ambiance of pure excitement. Roller skating rinks offered a unique blend of fitness, social interaction, and entertainment—a combination that is increasingly rare in today’s digital age. By resurrecting this once-thriving activity, communities would have the chance to reconnect, promote physical activity, and relive the joy of gliding across a smooth, polished floor under the vibrant disco lights.
8. Physical photo albums: With the convenience of smartphones and digital cameras, capturing and storing memories has become easier than ever before. However, the sheer simplicity and charm of physical photo albums from the 80s and 90s cannot be replicated. The process of developing film, arranging pictures in albums, and flipping through pages filled with treasured memories was an art form in itself. Each photograph held a story, encapsulating a moment frozen in time. A revival of physical photo albums would encourage us to slow down, appreciate the beauty of printed photographs, and relish the joy of revisiting and sharing memories offline.
9. Classic toys and board games: The 80s and 90s were a time of simple pleasures and imaginative play. From Transformers and Barbie dolls to Legos and board games like Monopoly and Scrabble, these classic toys provided endless hours of entertainment and creativity. Unlike today’s digital toys, these physical playthings encouraged social interaction, problem-solving, and the development of fine motor skills. Their return would offer children an opportunity to experience the joy of tactile play and foster their imaginations in a screen-dominated world.
10. The spirit of optimism and togetherness: Lastly, one intangible aspect from the 80s and 90s that we could all use a comeback is the prevailing spirit of optimism and togetherness. Despite the challenges and hardships of the decades, there was a sense of hope, unity, and forward-looking mentality that permeated society. Without the constant barrage of social media, people engaged in genuine, face-to-face conversations, fostering a stronger sense of community and empathy. Restoring this spirit of optimism and togetherness would not only improve interpersonal connections but also strengthen societal bonds and create a brighter, more harmonious future.
In conclusion, the 80s and 90s were undeniably a memorable time characterized by various elements that are still deeply cherished today. From the iconic fashion trends and classic TV shows to the beloved cassette tapes and arcade games, these aspects hold a special place in our hearts. By reviving these elements, we not only satisfy our nostalgia cravings but also provide opportunities for new generations to experience the magic and wonder of these bygone eras. So, let us embrace the spirit of the 80s and 90s and welcome back the fashion, entertainment, and traditions that made this period truly remarkable.
Good cartoons!
Real estate Prices
Gas prices
Saturday morning cartoons.
Duke Nukem
Technological silence. Growing up in the 80’s was great because there was enough tech to keep me entertained (video games, VHS) but it was easy enough to disconnect from. Going outside and not being tethered to the internet is a lot harder to do today.
Puppetry cinema, world building fantasy movies. Think The Never Ending Story.
I think CGI is great but man, when you rewatch these old films, it’s amazing to think they did that with no computers!
Pizza huts with buffets, the red cups and funky lights
The lack of internet being in every aspect of our lives so that people can stop being clout driven morons who believe everything they see/read on the internet.
Jello Pudding Pops 🤤
The general feeling that fascism is bad.
Ska on the radio
The aesthetics of the era. For example, I love 80s & 90s movies, specially the grainy cold image quality. Nowadays, most movies use different hues and sharp high definition cameras, you can tell a 90s movie from an early 2000s movie and a 2010-present movie by the way it looks.
Buying power among the non-wealthy.
The attainable dream of buying a home.
Cars that you expect to last 20 years and appliances that you never really thought you would have to replace.
Pogs were pretty neat
Rush hour being one hour. In my city now, if I am not on the road for 5:30am, then my 8 mile journey takes 1 hour instead of 13 minutes.
There is a one hour window between 10am and 11am where it gets *mildly* less shitty, but basically if the sun is up, roads are jammed.
Grunge music.
Getting along as a core social value.
Playing outside and having fun. We used to hang out until it got dark and then go home. We actually played jump rope, hop scotch, 4 square, red rover, hide and seek, dodge ball. We interacted with people and learned social skills.
Optimism about the future
My youth and hope for the future
My back not hurting.
America’s Middle Class – Being able to afford housing with one job..you know, the basics.
Living wages, and being able to support a family on a single income.
There was much more in person interaction with friends.
now because of cell phones/social media people will just do that to keep in touch and then sit alone at home causing a sense of isolation and depression.
Good movies if that makes sense. Everything now has to be a blockbuster guaranteed or it doesn’t get produced.
90s Hip Hop
Privacy.
common sense
Proper bipartisan politics in the US. Everyone has to compromise at some point. This all or nothing approach is making the country hurt.
Finding porn mags in hedges? The fun music?
Kids playing outside. 🙂
Decent rock music
Not be accessible 24/7
The ability to purchase and keep any type of entertainment material, the real thing or a bootleg. I bring this up when it comes to offline use, mostly.
No questions asked.
While fine for some subscriptions if the service is available, there have been times when I paid for something and got to keep it.
Sometimes streaming services act in ways that are merely unacceptable. In regards to my local Fox station, WFXT, Fox recently screwed up my services. When it was FOXNOW, I could watch primetime programs like *The Masked Singer* and *Smackdown*. I was furious when they just allowed sports and news when they upgraded it. Yes, I tried Tubi, no luck.
Another example is that I had the choice to download the Spice Girls album I wanted to purchase digitally from Amazon Music, allowing me to listen to it on any MP3 player while offline or burn a CD. Think again if you believe switching from Windows to Linux is to blame. Even on my phone, I attempted a workaround. I did, after all, pay for it.
Many bootleggers were aware, back in the 1990s, that consumers didn’t want to put up with that kind of trash. The sale of bootleg albums, books, and movies is true. Many people didn’t care whether it was a bootleg when they were growing up in the hood. Indeed, I was exposed to the “Don’t Duplicate That Floppy” ad while growing up. Ironically, a video game was the only thing you couldn’t acquire a bootleg of because of their restrictions. At the time, various computer games featured peculiar copy protection, and forget about pirating console games.
A catch-22 appears to exist now.
For a charge, a service is provided that offers an endless variety, but restricts what paying consumers can do with it offline.
New fantastic adventure movies that feel like The Labyrinth and The Neverending Story.
Hollywood gets things wrong when it constantly reboots old properties. We don’t want the same stories re-told, we just want new ones that have that same feeling! This is exactly why Stranger Things is so successful. It pays homage to so many 80s movies like E.T., Poltergeist and Nightmare on Elm Street and it’s not just a shallow nod; it’s a real love-letter to those settings and that style of storytelling.
Colorful clothing and accessories.
Not the over-the-top neon stuff so much, but it seems like everything these days is grey, beige, black, and dull, neutral colors. Also, prints are super subtle and uninteresting.
Bring back bright colors, funky prints, and embellished ( embroidered, jeweled, sequined, etc.) clothing.
I’m not against neutral colors, but I hate that it seems to be 95% of what’s available. I’ve been looking for a new purse for over a year, and I can’t find anything that isn’t dead plain and either white, black, or brown.
I just want some fun stuff to wear again.
My dad
Housing being affordable to ordinary people.
The pace of life, Housing prices, the caramel marathon candy bar.
Visiting.
Before cell phones, we used to go over to our friends’ houses and knock on the door. I’d be at home, doing whatever it was I was doing, and I’d hear a knock at my door. I’d get excited to see who it was, kinda like Wallace when somebody mentions “cheese!”.
I’d go answer the door and hang out with whoever it was for a little while. If it was a good friend, they’d jump in and help me if I was in the middle of some chore (as I would for them). Then we’d go off and do something.
People these days get insulted if you so much as call without first texting to ask permission.
All this connectivity has somehow erected barriers.