15 Bizarre ’80s Fads That Came and Went

15 Bizarre ’80s Fads That Came and Went

The 1980s were a vibrant and eclectic decade characterized by unique and often fleeting fads that captured the imagination of many. From colorful fashion statements to quirky toys and collectibles, these trends left a lasting impression despite their brief existence. Here, we explore 15 of the most bizarre and memorable fads from the ’80s, each with its own distinct charm and story.

1. Jelly Shoes

Jelly shoes, the vibrant and translucent footwear of the ’80s, became a summer sensation. Made from plastic and available in a rainbow of colors, they often featured glitter and appealed particularly to children and teenagers.

Despite their visually appealing design, jelly shoes were infamously uncomfortable, lacking breathability and causing blisters after prolonged wear. An interesting aspect of these shoes was their affordability, making them accessible to many. However, their inability to withstand wear and tear led to their eventual decline. Yet, for a brief moment, jelly shoes sparkled under the sun, a colorful relic of ’80s summer fashion.

2. Parachute Pants

Parachute pants burst onto the scene in the 1980s, primarily driven by the breakdancing craze. Made from slick nylon with multiple zippers, these pants were as noisy as they were fashionable. They allowed for freedom of movement, which dancers appreciated, yet they were notoriously hot and flammable.

While initially a symbol of street fashion, the impracticality of parachute pants led to their fast decline. The vivid colors and unique texture of these pants made them a memorable part of ’80s style, even if their popularity was as fleeting as a summer dance-off.

3. Garbage Pail Kids Cards

Garbage Pail Kids cards, with their grotesque caricatures and pun-laden names, became a controversial hit in the mid-’80s. These trading cards parodied the wholesome Cabbage Patch Kids, offering a rebellious alternative for kids. However, the crude and often grotesque imagery sparked backlash from parents and schools, leading to bans in many places.

Despite their banishment, these cards achieved cult status, appealing to those who relished their shock value. The quirky art and irreverent humor of Garbage Pail Kids have left a lasting impression, forever etched into the tapestry of ’80s pop culture.

4. Designer Yo-Yos

In the ’80s, yo-yos got a high-tech makeover with sleek designs and ball-bearing axles, sparking a brief yet intense craze. Brands like Duncan and Yomega revolutionized the classic toy, adding flair and complexity. Kids were captivated by the new tricks these designer yo-yos enabled.

However, the fad fizzled as quickly as it ignited, as children moved on to other distractions. Despite their short-lived popularity, designer yo-yos remain a nostalgic reminder of an era when simple toys could spark competitive spirit and creativity among young enthusiasts.

5. Scratch ‘n Sniff Stickers

Scratch ‘n sniff stickers were a sensory delight in the ’80s, releasing fragrant aromas when scratched. From root beer to popcorn, each sticker had its distinct scent, captivating children and collectors alike. However, concerns arose over the ingredients used, questioning their safety, and the novelty wore off as the scents quickly faded.

Despite these issues, scratch ‘n sniff stickers sparked joy and curiosity, offering an interactive experience that transcended ordinary sticker collections. Their brief but fragrant existence remains a cherished memory for those who reveled in the peculiar pleasure of scented stickers.

6. View-Master Reels

The View-Master, a beloved toy since the 1930s, found renewed popularity in the ’80s. Offering 3D images of various scenes and stories, it captured the imagination of children everywhere. However, as technology advanced, the simple thrill of clicking through reels became overshadowed by digital media.

Although its charm faded, the View-Master provided a portal to other worlds, sparking imagination and wonder. A relic of simpler times, it remains a nostalgic symbol of childhood discovery and the endless possibilities contained within those small cardboard reels.

7. Friendship Bracelets

Friendship bracelets, crafted from vibrant embroidery floss, became symbols of loyalty and camaraderie in the ’80s. These handmade tokens were exchanged among friends, each design unique and meaningful. While the crafting required patience, the results were cherished as personal and heartfelt gifts.

However, as fashion trends evolved, newer accessories overshadowed these woven treasures. Despite this, friendship bracelets remain iconic, representing the time and care invested in creating something beautiful for a friend. Their enduring appeal lies in their simplicity and the genuine connections they symbolize, transcending decades of changing styles.

8. Hypercolor Shirts

Hypercolor shirts brought a splash of creativity to ’80s fashion, changing colors with body heat. This innovative design captured the curiosity of many, making the wearer stand out. However, these shirts also highlighted sweat stains and faded after washing, leading to their quick decline.

Despite these drawbacks, hypercolor shirts were a fun experiment in interactive clothing. They remain a testament to the boldness of ’80s fashion, where daring ideas were embraced, even if they weren’t always practical. For a short time, these shirts transformed the ordinary into an extraordinary visual experience.

9. Water Wigglers

Water wigglers, the elusive and slippery toys of the ’80s, were a perplexing delight. Filled with liquid and glitter, these toys slipped through fingers, providing endless amusement. However, their fragile construction meant they often burst, spilling their contents and raising safety concerns.

Despite these drawbacks, water wigglers entertained with their unpredictable nature and tactile appeal. They were eventually banned in many schools, but their quirky charm remains a fond memory for those who dared to grasp them. These toys epitomize the playful unpredictability of ’80s childhood amusement.

10. Cabbage Patch Kid Imposters

The ’80s craze for Cabbage Patch Kids led to a flood of imposters, as eager manufacturers sought to capitalize on their popularity. These knockoffs often lacked the charm and quality of the originals, leaving an unsettling impression.

Despite their initial appeal, the poorly constructed dolls couldn’t sustain interest as the genuine craze faded. The phenomenon of Cabbage Patch Kid imposters highlights the decade’s fervor for unique toys and the lengths to which companies would go to ride the wave of success. Today, they serve as a quirky reminder of consumer trends.

11. Pogo Ball

The pogo ball, a challenging mix of pogo stick and balance board, captivated adventurous spirits in the ’80s. Designed for energetic play, it required balance and coordination, leading to numerous falls and sprained ankles.

Despite its difficulty, the pogo ball offered a thrill for those willing to master it. Yet, its inherent risks led to a decline in popularity. The pogo ball remains a symbol of the daring nature of ’80s toys, where innovation often came with a side of caution. Its fleeting presence is remembered by those who dared to bounce.

12. Bananas in Pajamas Merchandise

Bananas in Pajamas merchandise flooded the market in the ’80s, inspired by the children’s TV show. From toys to clothing, the appeal was undeniable, yet the craze quickly faded. The show’s lack of enduring memorability meant that the merchandise couldn’t maintain its initial momentum.

Despite this, Bananas in Pajamas left a whimsical mark on ’80s pop culture. The short-lived popularity of their merchandise highlights the transient nature of trends, where even the most charming characters can fade into obscurity as new interests emerge.

13. Pop Beads

Pop beads, the colorful snap-together jewelry of the ’80s, encouraged creativity and fun. Each bead connected with a satisfying click, allowing for endless combinations. However, they wore out quickly, and their small size posed a choking hazard, leading to bans in many schools.

Despite these issues, pop beads were a delightful way for children to express themselves through fashion. The playful nature of these beads, along with their tactile appeal, made them a cherished part of ’80s crafting, even if their time in the spotlight was brief.

14. Rock Tumbler Kits

Rock tumbler kits promised to transform ordinary stones into shiny gems, capturing the imaginations of budding geologists in the ’80s. The process was loud and lengthy, often taking weeks, and the results were not always as spectacular as promised. Despite their shortcomings, these kits offered a hands-on educational experience, teaching patience and perseverance.

The charm of rock tumbler kits lay in the anticipation of revealing hidden beauty, even if reality didn’t always match expectations. They remain a nostalgic symbol of curiosity and the allure of DIY science projects.

15. Smurfs Everything

In the ’80s, the Smurfs were omnipresent, appearing in cartoons, toys, and clothing. Their blue charm captivated audiences, leading to a flood of merchandise. However, overexposure soon led to “Smurf fatigue,” as newer characters emerged to capture the public’s interest.

Despite this, the Smurfs left an indelible mark on pop culture, their influence felt long after the initial craze subsided. The Smurfs’ journey from beloved icons to overexposed entities serves as a cautionary tale of fad saturation, yet their legacy continues to enchant new generations.