Craziest fads that swept through high schools in the ’80s
Ah, the ’80s—a decade of vibrant colors, bold styles, and unforgettable trends that took high schools by storm. This was an era where fashion met fun, and technology began to weave its way into everyday life.
From hallways to hangouts, these fads became the defining features of teenage culture. Let’s take a lighthearted trip down memory lane and revisit the quirkiest and most beloved trends that made the ’80s high school scene so iconic.
The Rise of the Rubik’s Cube: Puzzling the Minds of Teens Everywhere
The Rubik’s Cube, invented in 1974 by Ernő Rubik, became a worldwide craze in the ’80s, challenging the minds of high schoolers with its colorful complexity. By 1980, it had transformed into a cultural phenomenon, with championships sprouting across the globe.
Teens spent hours twisting and turning, hoping to solve the puzzle faster than their friends. The cube wasn’t just a toy; it was a test of patience and intelligence, and a way to show off one’s problem-solving prowess.
Breakdancing: The Art of Spinning on Cardboard
Breakdancing burst onto the scene as a dynamic form of street dance that captivated high schoolers with its gravity-defying moves. Originating from the Bronx, it became a staple at school events and parties, with teens perfecting their spins and freezes on makeshift cardboard dance floors.
Breakdancing crews competed in friendly battles, showcasing their skills and creativity. It was more than just dance; it was a vibrant expression of identity and a way to connect with peers through shared passion.
The Power of the Boom Box: Carrying the Party on Your Shoulder
Boom boxes were the ultimate symbol of ’80s high school life, blasting tunes that defined the decade. These portable stereo systems, also known as ghetto blasters, allowed teens to take their music anywhere, from hallways to hangouts.
With artists like Michael Jackson and Madonna dominating the airwaves, boom boxes became an essential accessory for any music-loving teen. They were a testament to the era’s love for music and the desire to share it with friends.
Acid Wash Jeans: The Fashion Trend That Faded In and Out
Acid wash jeans were the epitome of ’80s fashion, characterized by their distinctively bleached look. This trend, rumored to have started in Italy, quickly spread to high schools everywhere, adding a rebellious edge to any outfit.
Teens paired them with oversized tops and leather jackets, creating a look that was both edgy and effortlessly cool. While the fad eventually faded, acid wash jeans remain a nostalgic symbol of ’80s style and youthful rebellion.
The Craze for Cabbage Patch Kids: When Dolls Became a Status Symbol
Cabbage Patch Kids were more than just dolls; they were a cultural phenomenon that sparked a buying frenzy among parents and teens alike. First created by Xavier Roberts in 1978, their popularity soared in the early ’80s, with each doll uniquely named and ‘adoptable’.
Owning a Cabbage Patch Kid became a status symbol, with some high schoolers even bringing them to school to show off their prized possessions. They were a testament to the power of marketing and the joy of childhood nostalgia.
Slap Bracelets: The Snap Heard ‘Round the Schoolyard
Slap bracelets were a late ’80s and early ’90s accessory, delighting high schoolers with their simple yet addictive design. Made from flexible steel wrapped in colorful fabric, these bracelets could be straightened and ‘slapped’ onto the wrist, curling around it instantly.
They became a must-have item, with teens collecting them in various patterns and colors. While schools eventually banned them due to minor injuries, slap bracelets remain an iconic memory of playful ’80s fashion.
Pac-Man Fever: When Arcades Became the Ultimate Hangout Spot
Pac-Man, released in 1980, was more than just a game; it was a social phenomenon that turned arcades into the coolest hangouts. Teens flocked to these neon-lit venues to chase high scores and socialize.
The game’s simple yet addictive gameplay captured the hearts of players worldwide, earning it a place in pop culture history. Pac-Man wasn’t just about winning; it was about the shared experience of gaming and the thrill of competition among friends.
The Neon Explosion: Bright Colors and Even Brighter Personalities
Neon colors dominated the ’80s fashion scene, bringing a splash of vibrancy to high school hallways. From neon leggings to bold accessories, these eye-catching hues were a form of self-expression and individuality.
Teens embraced this trend wholeheartedly, pairing neon with other bold patterns to create unique, head-turning looks. This explosion of color reflected the era’s spirit of optimism and creativity, allowing high schoolers to showcase their personalities through fashion.
Hair-Raising Styles: From Mullets to Aquanet
The ’80s were a time of bold hairstyles that defied gravity and convention. The mullet, famously described as ‘business in the front, party in the back,’ became a popular choice among high schoolers.
Meanwhile, Aquanet hairspray was a staple for achieving those sky-high styles, keeping every strand in place. These daring hairdos were more than just trends; they were statements of individuality and the desire to stand out, marking a decade of fearless fashion choices.
The Popularity of Leg Warmers: From Dance Studios to Hallway Runways
Leg warmers, originally meant for dancers, became a fashion staple in the ’80s, making their way into high school hallways across the nation. Inspired by films like “Flashdance,” teens wore them over jeans or with skirts, embracing the trend wholeheartedly.
They were not just a way to keep warm but a stylish accessory that added flair to any outfit. The leg warmer craze was a testament to the influence of pop culture on fashion and the playful spirit of the decade.
Trapper Keepers: Organizing Chaos with Style
Trapper Keepers were the ultimate organizational tool for ’80s students, combining practicality with style. These colorful binders featured Velcro closures and various designs, making them a fashionable way to keep track of assignments and notes.
With themes ranging from unicorns to sports cars, Trapper Keepers allowed teens to express their interests while staying organized. They were more than just school supplies; they were a reflection of personal style and a staple of academic life.
The Infamous Swatch Watch: Timekeeping with a Personal Touch
Swatch watches were a ’80s sensation, offering a fun and affordable way for teens to keep time while making a fashion statement. Known for their bold colors and interchangeable bands, Swatches allowed wearers to customize their look with ease.
Each watch was a piece of art, reflecting the vibrant and eclectic style of the decade. They were more than just timepieces; they were symbols of individuality and a must-have accessory for any fashion-forward high schooler.
Friendship Pins: Beads, Safety Pins, and the Bond of BFFs
Friendship pins were a heartfelt fad that symbolized the bonds between high school friends. Made with colorful beads strung onto safety pins, they were often attached to shoelaces or backpacks. Each pin was unique, representing the creativity and connection of the giver.
These tiny tokens of friendship were exchanged among peers, serving as a reminder of loyalty and camaraderie. They were a simple yet meaningful way for teens to celebrate their relationships in the ’80s.
MTV Generation: Music Videos and Their Impact on High School Culture
The launch of MTV in 1981 revolutionized how teens experienced music, turning music videos into a cultural touchstone. High schoolers would gather to watch the latest hits from artists like Prince and Duran Duran, discussing the videos’ styles and stories.
This new medium influenced fashion, dance, and attitudes, with music videos becoming an integral part of teenage life. MTV wasn’t just a channel; it was a reflection of the times, shaping the tastes and trends of the ’80s youth.
The Roller Skating Revival: Gliding Through the Social Scene
Roller skating saw a revival in the ’80s, becoming a popular pastime and social activity for high schoolers. Roller rinks were the go-to hangout spot, where teens could glide to the latest tunes under disco lights.
The activity was both a fun way to exercise and an opportunity to socialize, with themed nights and skate parties. Roller skating was more than just a trend; it was a celebration of freedom and fun, capturing the carefree spirit of the decade.
