The 1980s were full of iconic teen trends that made their way through school hallways, shopping malls, and even TV screens. From big hair to wild fashion statements, it was all about self-expression, and sometimes, just having fun with whatever was trending. Fast forward to 2025, and many of these ’80s fads are hard to imagine making a comeback. Here are 14 teen trends that would likely get you some serious side-eye today, along with a little history on how these fads came and went.
1. Mullets: Business in the Front, Party in the Back
The mullet was a hairstyle trend that took the ‘80s by storm, symbolizing a rebellious attitude and a fun-loving vibe. With short, slicked-back hair in the front and long, flowing locks in the back, this look was sported by everyone from rock stars to school jocks. Today, the mullet is mostly a joke, often worn ironically for costume parties or as part of a retro throwback. In 2025, you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone trying to pull it off as a genuine fashion statement.
2. Neon Spandex and Leg Warmers
The 1980s fitness craze led to the popularity of neon-colored spandex and leg warmers, especially thanks to workout videos from celebrities like Jane Fonda. This combination of bright, stretchy fabrics was seen everywhere, from aerobics classes to shopping malls. In 2025, neon spandex is considered outdated, and unless you’re at a ’80s-themed workout class or party, it would be out of place. Fitness wear today is more about comfort, functionality, and muted colors, with performance-driven brands dominating the market.
3. Slap Bracelets
Slap bracelets, the colorful metal bands that would “snap” onto your wrist when slapped, were one of the must-have accessories in the ‘80s. While they were fun and inexpensive, slap bracelets were eventually banned in schools due to injuries caused by the sharp metal edges. In 2025, you’d be hard-pressed to see anyone wearing these nostalgic accessories. While fidget toys have made a comeback, slap bracelets haven’t quite made their way back into the trend cycle.
4. High-Waisted Acid-Wash Jeans
Acid-wash jeans, particularly the high-waisted variety, were a staple in every teen’s wardrobe during the ’80s. With their exaggerated waistlines and faded, distressed look, they were often paired with oversized shirts or crop tops. While high-waisted jeans are making a bit of a comeback, acid-wash denim remains firmly in the past. In 2025, you’d likely opt for a more tailored, classic denim look rather than those ultra-light, washed-out styles.
5. Swatch Watches
Swatch watches, with their bright colors and bold designs, were the ultimate teen accessory in the ’80s. These plastic timepieces came in every imaginable color and pattern, making them perfect for expressing personality. While Swatch is still around, the brand doesn’t hold the same level of cultural significance it once did. In 2025, teens are more likely to wear smartwatches or minimalist designs rather than these throwback accessories, which have largely been replaced by technology.
6. Parachute Pants
Parachute pants, inspired by the bright colors and loose fits of breakdancing, were a huge trend in the ‘80s, thanks to stars like MC Hammer. These pants were made from nylon and featured a baggy fit, offering both comfort and flash. In 2025, parachute pants are mostly reserved for costumes or ironic fashion statements. Today’s teens are more likely to wear slim or straight-fit trousers, and a more modern aesthetic has taken over streetwear trends.
7. “Miami Vice” Inspired Outfits
The ‘80s introduced bold fashion trends, and “Miami Vice” played a big role in making pastel suits, white linen jackets, and sunglasses a teen favorite. While the show’s influence was massive at the time, these fashion choices now seem out of place in 2025. Fashion today focuses more on simplicity, comfort, and neutral colors, with less emphasis on the flashy, neon-heavy looks that were once considered cool.
8. The “Flock of Seagulls” Hairstyle
The “Flock of Seagulls” hairstyle, made famous by the band A Flock of Seagulls, was one of the most memorable trends of the ‘80s. With asymmetrical cuts and towering hair, this style was all about volume and boldness. Today, this hairstyle would be considered over-the-top and impractical. While creative hairstyles are still popular, the dramatic, spiked styles of the ‘80s are no longer in fashion, replaced by sleek, more refined looks.
9. The “Roller Disco” Craze
In the ’80s, roller skating and disco went hand-in-hand, especially in places like roller rinks where people would skate to dance music while wearing glittery outfits and neon accessories. The craze hit its peak with films like “Roller Boogie” and “Skatetown U.S.A.” In 2025, roller skating has made a comeback in certain communities, but it’s not about the disco vibes anymore. Today’s roller skate culture is less about the flashy outfits and more about style, fitness, and fun in urban areas.
10. Jell-O Mold Parties
In the ’80s, Jell-O molds were a staple of parties, picnics, and family gatherings. These gelatin desserts were often made into elaborate shapes and layered with various colors. While Jell-O is still a popular snack today, the days of Jell-O molds as party food are long gone. Teens today are more likely to look for trendy desserts like cupcakes or cookies, and the elaborate gelatin concoctions of the ‘80s would likely be considered outdated by today’s standards.
11. Spandex and Off-the-Shoulder Sweatshirts
The ’80s saw spandex and oversized off-the-shoulder sweatshirts become popular staples for both working out and casual wear. While athleisure is still going strong in 2025, the combination of neon spandex and slouchy sweatshirts doesn’t hold the same appeal. Today’s fashion is more about sleek, streamlined silhouettes and breathable fabrics, rather than over-the-top, colorful workout gear that once dominated the fashion scene.
12. The “Rubik’s Cube” Obsession
The Rubik’s Cube became one of the most iconic toys of the ’80s, with millions of teens trying to solve the puzzle. While the cube is still a popular brain teaser, the obsession has calmed down. In 2025, teens are more likely to be absorbed in digital games or apps that challenge their minds in new ways. The cube is still a fun way to kill time, but it’s not nearly as culturally relevant as it once was.
13. Aerobics and Step Classes
In the ’80s, aerobics classes and step aerobics were everywhere. With workout legends like Jane Fonda leading the charge, every teen wanted to get fit with a high-energy class that included loud music and neon workout gear. Today’s fitness culture is less about aerobics classes and more about cross-fit, yoga, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). While fitness is still an important part of life, the bright spandex and step platforms are no longer in style.
14. Big Hair and Hair Crimping
Big hair, teased to extreme heights, was all the rage in the ’80s, with hairspray holding every strand in place. Crimped hair also became a popular trend during this time. In 2025, sleek, natural hairstyles have taken over, and while volume is still celebrated, it’s achieved in a more controlled, minimalist way. Excessive teasing, crimping, and hairspray are now reserved for costume parties or themed events, and teens today embrace more effortless and natural looks instead.
