12 Outdated Trends from the ’80s That Make Us Cringe

It is always great to remember the good old 1980s. It was a time of loud fashion, bigger-than-life hairstyles, and unapologetic excess. However, while some elements of the decade have aged gracefully, others leave us wondering, “What were we thinking?”

Let’s take a nostalgic (and slightly embarrassing) trip down memory lane with these 12 trends that were once peak cool but now make us shake our heads.

1. Big Hair

Towering, gravity-defying hair was everywhere, with gallons of hairspray ensuring not a strand moved. Icons like Madonna and Jon Bon Jovi made it a must-have look.

Looking back, the sheer amount of aerosol used was enough to make environmentalists cry. Today, we prefer volume that doesn’t resemble a bird’s nest.

2. Shoulder Pads

Nothing said “I’m in charge” like stuffing extra inches of padding into your shoulders. Inspired by Dynasty and corporate culture, these were the ultimate fashion power move.

The result? Most people looked more like linebackers than executives. Thankfully, modern fashion has embraced a more natural silhouette.

3. Leg Warmers

Thanks to Flashdance, leg warmers weren’t just for dancers—they were everywhere. People wore them over jeans, tights, and even bare legs.

In hindsight, they weren’t really keeping anyone warm—but they did make ankles look oddly bulky.

4. Neon Colors

Neon pink, electric green, and blinding yellow took over clothes, accessories, and even makeup. The bolder, the better.

These colors still make occasional comebacks, but a full neon outfit today screams “traffic cone” more than “fashion icon.”

5. Parachute Pants

Breakdancers and rappers made these shiny, baggy nylon pants wildly popular. They were lightweight and great for dancing—but not much else.

Today, they look less like fashion and more like emergency camping gear.

6. Fanny Packs

Practical? Yes. Stylish? Not so much. These bulky waist pouches became a must-have for travelers and parents.

While modern versions are sleeker, the ’80s versions looked like you were wearing a lunchbox around your waist.

7. Acid Wash Jeans

The bleach-splattered look was an edgy alternative to classic denim, made popular by rock stars and rebels.

Now, it just looks like a laundry accident. Some vintage trends return, but this one is best left to history.

8. Mullets

The most infamous hairstyle of the decade, mullets were everywhere—from country singers to rock stars.

Today, they’re mostly a joke, proving that not all trends deserve a second chance.

9. Swatch Watches

These plastic, colorful watches were a must-have accessory, often worn stacked on one arm for extra flair.

Swatches are still around, but nowadays, one watch is enough. No need to carry a personal clock collection on your wrist.

10. Permed Hair

The ’80s didn’t just love volume—it loved curls. Tight, stiff perms were the go-to hairstyle, thanks to celebrities and TV stars.

Modern curls are soft and natural-looking, making the crunchy, overly processed perms of the past look more comedic than chic.

11. Scrunchies

Scrunchies were a hair and wrist accessory all in one, with bright colors and oversized styles dominating.

While they’ve made a subtle return, stacking them up your arm like bracelets is a trend that should stay in the past.

12. Spandex

From aerobics classes to everyday wear, skin-tight, neon spandex ruled the decade. Jane Fonda workout tapes sealed its fate as a wardrobe essential.

While still great for the gym, full-body spandex jumpsuits belong in fitness history books, not on the streets.