The 1980s was a decade marked by distinct fashion, fads, and quirks, especially for teenage girls. From quirky fashion statements to funny behaviors, the memories of that era take us right back to the eighties. Let’s delve into the things that all teenage girls did back in the 1980s, reminiscing on the trends that defined a generation.
Fortune Teller Foldables
Who can forget those fortune teller foldables, also known as cootie catchers? These paper creations were a staple of middle school life, predicting futures and revealing crushes with each playful fold.
Belted Out Power Ballads Into Hairbrushes
For teenage girls in the 1980s, music was life. Whenever a favorite song came on the radio or cassette tape, it was time to unleash the inner rockstar, belting out power ballads into a hairbrush microphone while dancing around the bedroom.
Fashion Statements with Shoulder Pads
The 1980s were all about bold fashion choices, including the iconic shoulder pads trend. From blazers to power suits, exaggerated shoulders made a bold statement that defined the era’s fashion landscape.
Marathon Phone Conversations
In an age before smartphones, teenage girls spent hours on end engaged in marathon phone conversations with their best friends. Twisting the phone cord around fingers or fidgeting with the receiver, these conversations were a hallmark of teenage social life.
Organized Makeup in Caboodles
Keeping makeup organized was essential for teenage girls in the 1980s, and Caboodles were the answer. These colorful makeup cases, reminiscent of tackle boxes, held all the essentials and were perfect for on-the-go touch-ups.
Passing Notes in Class
Before texting became the norm, passing handwritten notes in class was the primary mode of communication for teenage girls. Folding notes into intricate shapes and passing them discreetly added an element of excitement to the school day.
Sharp Radio Tape Decks
Every girl in the 1980s seemed to have a sharp radio tape deck, sold in pastel colors and cherished for its compact size and sleek design. Whether listening to music or recording favorite songs from the radio, these gadgets were a must-have accessory.
Dreaming of Metal Day Beds
The ultimate bedroom accessory for teenage girls in the 1980s was a metal day bed. Complete with floral bedding and frilly pillows, these twin-sized beds exuded sophistication and style, perfect for hosting sleepovers with friends.
Aquanet Hairspray for Big Bangs
Achieving the iconic big hair look required copious amounts of Aquanet hairspray. Teenage girls spared no expense in achieving gravity-defying bangs, often enduring overspray and crunchy textures in the process.
Adorning Hair with Bows and Barrettes
Hair accessories were a staple of 1980s fashion, with bows, ponytailers, and plastic barrettes adorning every teenage girl’s locks. From colorful balls to intricate designs, these accessories added flair to any hairstyle.
Experimenting with Lee Press-On Nails
Before nail salons became ubiquitous, Lee Press-On Nails offered a convenient solution for glamorous nails. Available in a variety of styles, these peel-and-stick nails were a hit among teenage girls looking to accessorize on a budget.
Adopting Pound Puppies
For every young girl in the 1980s, Pound Puppies were a must-have plush pet. With their pitiful backstory and irresistible charm, these stuffed animals captured the hearts of girls everywhere, inspiring a TV series and books.
Rocking Keds Sneakers
Keds sneakers were the footwear of choice for teenage girls in the 1980s, offering a blend of style and comfort. With their canvas design and versatile colors, Keds were the perfect shoe for any outfit.
Playing Supermarket with Coupons
Before the age of digital gaming, young girls entertained themselves by playing “supermarket” with coupons cut from newspapers. These play sessions mimicked real-life shopping experiences and provided hours of imaginative fun.
Sipping Crystal Light Flavored Water
Crystal Light flavored water was a staple of 1980s diets, offering a low-calorie alternative to sugary drinks. Endorsed by celebrities and marketed as a diet-friendly option, Crystal Light became a household name among health-conscious women.
The Magic Of the Eighties
As we reflect on these nostalgic moments from the 1980s, it’s clear that the decade left an indelible mark on the lives of teenage girls everywhere. While some trends may have faded into obscurity, the memories of those days live on, cherished by a generation who experienced the magic of the eighties firsthand.
