Society is defined by the ever-changing trend cycle. Whether it be fashion, entertainment or food, we’re constantly trying to keep up with the latest fads. However, it seems that as soon as we settle into a trend, it goes out of style and the next one is rolling in.
In honor of all the long-dead trends, I’ve compiled a list of fads I love and think should make a reappearance.
10. Shirt Layering
This clothing trend was popular in the 90’s and early 2000’s and allowed for massive amounts of fashion freedom. People would wear tight tank tops under baggy cropped sweaters, multiple tight shirts layered over their torsos or a smaller top under loose flannels.
Not only did this style make room for fun colors and limitless customization possibilities, it was also extremely flattering on every body type. People don’t walk with the same swagger or confidence as they did 20 years ago, and I think bringing back shirt layering would help remedy this.
9. Crazy Aaron’s Silly Putty
I used to beg my parents to buy me this fidget putty. Toy stores would have baskets of this product at their checkout counters, and you best believe I checked every container for a new design or scent.
The best thing about silly putty was the cool colors, add-ins and scents the Crazy Aaron company would push out. So of course I wasn’t satisfied with just one kind of putty. The stuff was also my favorite fidget and helped me to focus and decompress at school.
8. Sandals Without Socks
I hate that every time someone wears sandals without socks, they’re called out and told to “put their dogs away.” If you take care of your feet and toenails, I think it’s perfectly reasonable to show them off in a pair of strappy open-toed shoes.
Additionally, some people run warm, and they would be so much more comfortable if they didn’t have to wear stifling socks. We shouldn’t be embarrassed or shamed for revealing our feet of all things. Besides, I miss shopping for pretty sandals that can show off my latest pedicure.
7. Instax Cameras
These Polaroid cameras were all the rage in middle school. Girls would bring them to the mall, sleepovers and field trips to document the experiences. We would cover the walls of our room and scrapbook pages with the developed photos, creating a tangible memento of our fondest memories.
Plus, Instax cameras come in cute colors and have all kinds of settings options that allow you to take stunning photos. They took away the phone barrier that keeps friend groups and families emotionally distanced today.
6. Popsockets
Popsockets weren’t just an aesthetic trend; they were also extremely useful and practical.
Needed to prop your phone up? Use a Popsocket.
Needed a fidget to entertain you at the DMV? Use a Popsocket. I can’t describe to you how much I miss the satisfying “pop” sound these devices made every time you moved them up and down.
And like all good trends, Popsockets came in a variety of colors and designs. There was something for everyone, and phone cases have seemed very empty since they went out of style.
5. Messy Buns
These certainly are still around, they just aren’t as popular or normalized as they used to be. Girls who rock a groutfit with a messy bun instantly have my respect. There’s something I find particularly endearing about an intentional chaotic mess atop someone’s head.
Recently, the slick-back has been taking the messy bun’s place. There’s nothing wrong with this new style, but messy buns are just as effective aesthetically and take way less time to perfect in the morning. Plus, they’re comfortable and functional for everyday activities.
4. Combat Boots
I loved wearing combat boots because they made me feel so confident and powerful. Since they usually come in black, they go with everything, are extremely durable and give the wearer added height.
They’re just a cool pair of shoes that everyone should feel comfortable wearing without judgement if they choose.
3. Rolled Ice Cream
This trend was short-lived and absolutely needs to come back. If you’ve never had rolled ice cream, basically you put a liquid ice cream base and any flavorings you desire onto a frozen tray. You then mix the ingredients with metal spatulas, spread out the mixture on the tray and roll it into logs while it freezes.
Watching workers at the ice cream store make your order was so interesting, and most places allowed you to add creative toppings to your rolled ice cream. Overall, rolled ice cream was a unique way to enjoy a sweet, creamy treat.
2. Letterman Jackets
I had to go way back in time for this trend, but I think this one most definitely needs to make a comeback. Letterman jackets allowed student athletes and others involved in activities to display their accomplishments and show pride in their extracurriculars.
The jackets also added an unrivaled spunk to any outfit, kept wearers warm and were extremely baggy, just like how many people wear their sweatshirts now.
Schools already sell so many clothing items, so I don’t think it’d be too hard to add letterman jackets back into the rotation.
1. Lululemon Headbands
I can’t think for the life of me why this trend went out of style. Lululemon’s athletic headbands are the highest quality headband I’ve ever encountered. They come in numerous colors, have a stretchy material that fits to every head and grippy strips that keep your hair in place.
These headbands were great for everyday wear, workouts and playing sports. Their simple but intentional design makes them my all-time favorite headband, and I would love to see more people start wearing them again.